SHORT TAKES MOVIES : ‘Chaplin’ Dwindles Despite Oscar Nod

Usually, an Academy Award nomination is seen by major Hollywood studios as a golden opportunity to hype their movies--especially if the nomination is in an “above-the-line” category such as acting or best picture.

But pity poor Robert Downey Jr.

Downey garnered an Oscar nomination Wednesday for best actor for his uncanny portrayal of comedian Charlie Chaplin in the Richard Attenborough film “Chaplin,” but it appears Downey’s nomination is not going to boost the fortunes of the movie.

The film, which was released by TriStar Pictures on Christmas Day, has grossed only $8.8 million at the box office. Given the less-than-enthusiastic public response, TriStar has decided to reduce the number of theaters where “Chaplin” is showing from 306 on Thursday to 214 today.

“I hope Robert Downey Jr.’s performance will be seen by more people, because it’s a really extraordinary performance,” said TriStar Chairman Mike Medavoy. “But it’s a difficult movie for people to see.”

Industry sources said that, realistically, it would be difficult for “Chaplin” to compete against “The Crying Game” and other films that have drawn more interest.

Although Downey received rave reviews from many critics, the film itself suffered from mixed reviews.