It might be time for the Academy to invite the “Sandman.”

Adam Sandler has long been one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars, but his work in Noah Baumbach’s “ Jay Kelly ” could finally land him where critics and cinephiles have long wanted to see him: in the Oscar race.

The U.S. premiere at the Telluride Film Festival marked a career-defining moment for Sandler, who joined Baumbach and co-star Laura Dern on stage as the filmmaker received a Silver Medallion tribute. Dern, who won her supporting actress Oscar for Baumbach’s “Marriage Story” (2018), praised her longtime collaborator, while Sandler reflected on Baumbach’s ability to “write the most beautiful words.”

Despite his box office dominance, Sandler has rarely been considered a serious Academy Awards contender. Over the years,

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