The 96th Academy Awards, held in Hollywood, showcased a thrilling competition among some of the year's most acclaimed films. This year’s race has been particularly intense, with several films vying for top honors across various categories. From Sean Baker’s critically acclaimed Anora to Brady Corbet’s epic The Brutalist, the nominees have delivered outstanding performances and innovative storytelling. The event also saw unexpected twists, such as the controversy surrounding Netflix’s Emilia Pérez, which initially led the pack but faced setbacks due to off-screen drama. As the winners were announced live, audiences witnessed both anticipated victories and surprising upsets that will be remembered for years to come.
The Battle for Best Picture: An Intense Race to the Finish
This year’s Best Picture category was one of the most competitive in recent memory. Films like Anora, The Brutalist, and A Complete Unknown were among the frontrunners, each bringing unique narratives and exceptional craftsmanship to the table. Despite early buzz around Netflix’s Emilia Pérez, the film’s chances dimmed following a scandal involving its lead actress. Meanwhile, other contenders like Dune: Part 2 and The Substance emerged as strong competitors, showcasing the diversity and depth of this year’s nominations. Ultimately, the winner was a testament to the power of compelling storytelling and artistic vision.
The Best Picture race highlighted the fierce competition between films that pushed boundaries in different ways. Anora, directed by Sean Baker, offered an intimate look at human resilience, while The Brutalist, helmed by Brady Corbet, presented a sweeping narrative that spanned multiple decades. Both films received critical acclaim for their bold approaches. A Complete Unknown, starring Timothée Chalamet, explored themes of identity and transformation, resonating deeply with audiences. Meanwhile, Conclave, a dramatic exploration of papal politics, added another layer of complexity to the race. The eventual winner not only captivated viewers but also left a lasting impact on the film industry, setting a new standard for future productions.
Standout Performances and Memorable Wins
The acting categories were filled with remarkable performances from seasoned veterans and rising stars alike. In the Best Actress category, Demi Moore’s portrayal in The Substance earned her widespread praise, while Zoe Saldaña’s supporting role in Emilia Pérez secured her a win. On the male side, Kieran Culkin’s breakthrough performance in A Real Pain won him the Best Supporting Actor award. These accolades underscored the importance of nuanced, heartfelt portrayals that resonate with audiences on a deeper level.
Among the standout moments of the night were the wins for lesser-known categories. Anora took home the prize for Best Writing (Original Screenplay), recognizing the film’s innovative script. The Brutalist claimed victory in Best Cinematography, highlighting its visually stunning direction. Additionally, I’m Still Here emerged as the Best International Feature Film, bringing global cinema into the spotlight. The evening concluded with Flow winning Best Animated Feature and No Other Land taking Best Documentary Feature, further showcasing the diversity of talent honored at the Oscars. These wins serve as a reminder of the rich tapestry of filmmaking that continues to evolve and inspire.
Experience the Magic of an Oscars Like No Other
Unveiling the Monologue
When Conan O'Brien stepped onto the Oscars stage, he brought with him a unique blend of humor and charm. The evening began with a surreal pre-taped sketch where O'Brien emerged from behind actress Demi Moore, who starred in "The Substance." This unexpected entrance set the tone for a night filled with surprises and laughter. As he turned around to retrieve a lost shoe from what seemed like inside Moore’s spine cavern, it became clear this would be no ordinary awards show.
O'Brien's opening monologue quickly delved into playful commentary about the nominees and the industry. He humorously mentioned films such as "A Complete Unknown," "A Real Pain," and "Nosferatu," which he claimed were titles he encountered while walking the red carpet. His self-deprecating humor added a layer of relatability, making even the most prestigious audience members feel like they were part of an inside joke. “I think two were fair,” he quipped, acknowledging the absurdity of the situation.
Hollywood's Heavyweights Under the Spotlight
The comedian didn't shy away from taking aim at some of Hollywood's biggest players. Netflix, with its impressive 18 nominations and recent price hikes, was a prime target for O'Brien’s wit. He playfully remarked on the streaming giant’s dominance and its impact on viewers' wallets. Another highlight was his humorous take on the length of "The Brutalist," questioning how anyone could sit through such an extended film without needing a break.
Karla Sofia Gascón, the actress from "Emilia Pérez," found herself in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons due to her controversial social media posts. O'Brien cleverly referenced these incidents, noting that "Anora" used the F-word 479 times—just three more than the record set by Gascón’s publicist. This juxtaposition not only highlighted the film's language but also drew attention to the broader issues surrounding public figures and their online presence.
A Tribute to the Unsung Heroes
Beyond the laughs, O'Brien took a moment to acknowledge the unsung heroes of the film industry. He spoke candidly about the devastation caused by wildfires in Los Angeles, recognizing that an awards show can sometimes feel trivial in light of such events. However, he emphasized the importance of celebrating the work of craftspeople and behind-the-scenes professionals who dedicate their lives to filmmaking.
“Even in the face of terrible wildfires and divisive politics, the work continues,” O'Brien stated with sincerity. He reminded everyone that the ceremony was not just about glamour and accolades but also about honoring the dedication and passion of those who make movies possible. For years to come, through both trauma and joy, this seemingly absurd ritual would remain a testament to the resilience of the industry.
The Musical Finale: A Promise Kept
To close his monologue, O'Brien promised not to waste time—a promise he hilariously broke moments later. He launched into a musical number featuring a dancing Deadpool and the sandworm from "Dune: Part Two" playing "Chopsticks" on a piano. It was a whimsical and unexpected end to an already memorable performance. Despite joking that they were 40 minutes over schedule, O'Brien ensured the audience left entertained and inspired.
In true comedic fashion, O'Brien concluded by announcing his departure from Hollywood to run a bed-and-breakfast in Orlando. He invited attendees to join him there, adding one last laugh to an unforgettable evening. Through his hosting, O'Brien demonstrated that humor and heart can coexist, creating an Oscars experience that will be remembered for years to come.
The 97th annual Academy Awards, held in Los Angeles at the Dolby Theater, celebrated cinematic excellence with a blend of anticipation and unexpected outcomes. Host Conan O’Brien guided the evening, while performances by Doja Cat, Raye, Queen Latifah, Cynthia Erivo, and Ariana Grande added sparkle to the event. The awards spanned various categories, showcasing remarkable achievements in film. Key wins included Best Supporting Actor for Kieran Culkin and Best Supporting Actress for Zoe Saldaña. Sean Baker's "Anora" triumphed in Original Screenplay, while "Conclave" secured Adapted Screenplay. Animated Feature went to "Flow," and several technical accolades were awarded, including Production Design and Costume Design for "Wicked."
Celebrating Acting and Writing Excellence
This year’s Oscars highlighted outstanding performances and screenwriting, with notable victories in acting and screenplay categories. Kieran Culkin’s win for Best Supporting Actor in “A Real Pain” marked a significant moment, reflecting his nuanced portrayal. Zoe Saldaña’s acceptance of the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in “Emilia Pérez” underscored her compelling performance. Meanwhile, Sean Baker’s original screenplay for “Anora” and Peter Straughan’s adapted screenplay for “Conclave” showcased the depth of storytelling in cinema.
In-depth recognition was given to actors and writers whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the industry. Kieran Culkin’s portrayal in “A Real Pain” captivated audiences with its raw authenticity, earning him the coveted Best Supporting Actor award. Zoe Saldaña’s role in “Emilia Pérez” was equally impactful, demonstrating her versatility as an actress. The screenplay category saw Sean Baker’s “Anora” taking home the prize for its innovative narrative, while Peter Straughan’s adaptation of “Conclave” was praised for its intricate plot development. These wins reflect the high standards set by the Academy and the caliber of work that continues to define the film industry.
Achievements in Technical and Artistic Categories
The technical and artistic categories shone brightly, with winners recognized for their exceptional craft. “Flow” emerged victorious in the Animated Feature category, while “Wicked” dominated both Production Design and Costume Design. Cinematography honors went to “The Brutalist,” and “Anora” excelled in Editing. Makeup and Hairstyling awards were claimed by “The Substance,” and “Dune: Part Two” won for Sound and Visual Effects. Additionally, “El Mal” from “Emilia Pérez” took the Original Song award, adding a musical highlight to the evening.
The night also celebrated behind-the-scenes talent, honoring films that pushed boundaries in technical and artistic realms. “Flow” stood out in Animated Feature for its innovative animation techniques and compelling storyline. “Wicked” was lauded for its elaborate production design and meticulous costume choices, creating a visually stunning experience. Cinematographer achievements in “The Brutalist” showcased breathtaking visuals, while “Anora” demonstrated precise editing that enhanced the film’s pacing. Makeup and hairstyling in “The Substance” brought characters to life, and “Dune: Part Two” wowed with its sound design and visual effects. The Original Song award for “El Mal” highlighted the power of music in storytelling, rounding off a night filled with remarkable achievements across multiple disciplines.