The Best Documentary category continues to be one of the less predictable Oscar races. There is no clear frontrunner nominee, and if Exit Through the Gift Shop wins, it's unclear who will accept the award. The film's director, Banksy, a street-artist who fiercely guards his anonymity, has asked if he could accept the Oscar in disguise — perhaps wearing a monkey mask that alludes to some of his work. Earlier this month, the Academy reportedly denied this unorthodox request, but Academy President Tom Sherak now says that while "we'd rather [Banksy] not wear a mask," they won't stop him from doing his thing. Should Banksy wear a mask?
Yes, it's essential he maintain his anonymity: "Banksy can't appear without a mask," says Tim Appelo in The Hollywood Reporter. "He has more to lose than Batman by exposing his secret identity." His anonymity is essential to his career as an artist, and even his safety — he's defaced property and people are looking for him. If he shows his face on Oscar night, "his career would die."
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