Each year, as the Academy Awards ceremony concludes and the Dolby Theatre empties, an intriguing transformation occurs. The art deco columns of Ovation Hollywood, home to the Dolby Theatre, are quickly adorned with plaques commemorating the latest Best Picture winner. This tradition dates back to 1927 when "Wings" claimed the first Oscar for Best Picture. The pillars, known as the Awards Walk, showcase every recipient of this prestigious award. Curiously, these plaques appear almost instantly after the winner is announced, sparking speculation about how this feat is accomplished.
In reality, the process is a result of meticulous planning rather than any clandestine deal. Following the announcement of the Best Picture nominees, each potential winner's plaque is pre-designed by Print a Sign in Agoura Hills, California. Once the victor is revealed on stage, temporary plexiglass signs are swiftly installed. Within a few weeks, these are replaced by permanent stone plaques. Meanwhile, the plaques for the losing films are destroyed. The columns can accommodate Best Picture titles until 2071, leaving future generations to ponder what will happen next.
The Tradition of Honoring Film Excellence
The Dolby Theatre's iconic art deco columns have become a symbol of cinematic excellence. Each year, as the Oscars conclude, these pillars receive a new addition: a plaque celebrating the latest Best Picture winner. This tradition has been ongoing since 1927, when "Wings" took home the inaugural award. The Awards Walk, which spans from the entrance to the grand staircase, showcases all past winners, creating a historical timeline of film achievements. Attendees may marvel at how quickly these plaques appear, sometimes even before they leave the venue.
This rapid installation process might seem mysterious, but it is rooted in careful preparation. After the Best Picture nominees are announced, Print a Sign in Agoura Hills begins designing plaques for all potential winners. When the winner is finally revealed on stage, the team springs into action. Temporary plexiglass signs are immediately installed to mark the occasion. These are later replaced with permanent stone plaques within a few weeks. The plaques for the non-winning films are discarded, ensuring only the true victors are immortalized in this prestigious display.
The Future of the Awards Walk
The Dolby Theatre's columns not only honor past achievements but also look towards the future. Currently, the structure can accommodate Best Picture plaques until 2071, providing ample space for decades of cinematic history. This foresight ensures that future generations will continue to witness the evolution of film through this unique exhibit. Visitors often wonder about the logistics of such rapid installations, especially considering the secrecy surrounding the envelope's contents.
The actual process involves a combination of foresight and efficiency. Every year, following the nomination announcement, Print a Sign meticulously prepares designs for all possible winners. On the night of the Oscars, once the winning film is declared, the temporary signage is promptly installed. This immediate update allows visitors to see the newest addition to the Awards Walk without delay. Within a few weeks, the temporary signs give way to more durable stone plaques. The entire system is designed to maintain the integrity and continuity of this revered tradition, ensuring that each new winner is celebrated with the same pomp and circumstance as their predecessors.
As the 2025 Oscar acting nominees approach the conclusion of their promotional tours, Hollywood's fashion stylists are feeling a mix of relief and exhaustion. The relentless schedule of red carpet appearances, talk shows, press junkets, and public events has required meticulous planning and execution. Each stylist prepares numerous outfits to ensure their clients shine at every turn, often working on over a hundred looks per campaign. Despite facing intense scrutiny from both the public and social media, these professionals remain committed to their craft, balancing fashion with respect for recent tragedies like the Los Angeles wildfires.
The Unseen Efforts Behind Red Carpet Glamour
In the vibrant world of Hollywood, the months leading up to the Academy Awards are a whirlwind of activity for celebrity stylists. From May at Cannes to the final red carpets in Los Angeles, stylists like Petra Flannery and Michael Fisher have been tirelessly preparing ensembles that capture attention without overshadowing their clients' performances. For Zoe Saldaña's campaign, Flannery and her team crafted nearly 100 looks, predominantly featuring Saint Laurent, while Fisher ensured Sebastian Stan had 96 outfits ready for his dual film promotions. The process extends beyond high-fashion gowns and suits; it includes casual attire for TV appearances and public outings, ensuring each moment is perfectly styled.
Stylists face constant judgment from an unforgiving audience. Comments like "Sack the stylist" on TikTok can be disheartening, but professionals like Fisher emphasize the collaborative nature of their work, involving talent and renowned designers. Flannery succinctly captures the essence: "Fashion is divisive. As long as my clients feel good, I feel good."
This year brought an additional challenge—the Los Angeles wildfires in January. Stylists had to navigate this tragedy carefully, maintaining respect while keeping the celebratory spirit alive. Jeanann Williams, who styles Monica Barbaro, noted early concerns about tone, but ultimately decided to proceed with planned looks. Flannery expressed gratitude for being back to work, showcasing their artistry amidst challenging times. "All of us could use some joy," Williams added, highlighting the role of fashion in bringing positivity.
From Versace on Jimmy Kimmel Live! to Loewe at Mubi screenings, the diversity and creativity of these ensembles reflect the dedication and passion of Hollywood's unsung heroes—its stylists.
In preparation for this year’s Academy Awards, stylists have faced the daunting task of balancing fashion with sensitivity to recent events. Despite the challenges, they remain steadfast in their mission to bring elegance and style to Hollywood's biggest night. The resilience and creativity shown by these professionals remind us of the intricate artistry behind every red carpet moment.
Ultimately, the efforts of Hollywood stylists underscore the importance of fashion in storytelling. Their ability to adapt to changing circumstances and maintain a positive outlook reflects the broader resilience of the entertainment industry. As the Oscars draw near, we can look forward to seeing how these stylists will once again transform the red carpet into a canvas of creativity and elegance.
As the entertainment world gears up for the grandest night in film, The Hollywood Reporter (THR) is set to offer an exclusive preshow that delves into the heart of the 2025 Oscars. This special event will provide viewers with unparalleled access to insider predictions, expert analysis, and behind-the-scenes insights. Broadcasting live from the iconic El Capitan Theatre, THR’s seasoned professionals will guide audiences through the evening’s most anticipated categories, offering final forecasts on who might clinch the coveted awards. Additionally, the program will explore fashion trends, highlight exclusive Oscar-night gatherings, and preview the ceremony’s musical performances, all while setting the stage for what promises to be a memorable night.
The countdown to Hollywood’s pinnacle event begins with a comprehensive look at the industry’s biggest contenders. From the red carpet to the Dolby Theatre, THR’s experts will dissect the competition across various categories. Will this year see a historic win for a young talent in the best actor category? Could an inspiring speech from a veteran actress steal the show? These questions and more will be explored by THR’s team of specialists. With years of experience covering the awards season, THR brings an insider’s perspective that no other outlet can match. The discussion will also touch upon the logistics and preparation involved in bringing the Academy Awards telecast to life, offering viewers a glimpse into the meticulous planning behind the scenes.
Audiences will gain insight into the fashion evolution of the red carpet, learning about the trends that have shaped past ceremonies and those expected to make waves this year. Exclusive details on the most talked-about parties and private events surrounding the Oscars will add another layer of excitement to the preshow. Moreover, the role of host Conan O’Brien and his anticipated performance will be analyzed, providing fans with a sneak peek into what they can expect during the ceremony. Musical highlights and category spotlights will further enrich the viewing experience, ensuring that no detail is overlooked as the big night approaches.
In conclusion, THR’s special preshow offers an unparalleled preview of the 2025 Oscars, delivering expert commentary and insider perspectives that enhance the anticipation for the evening’s main event. Through its detailed coverage, the program not only sets the stage for the awards but also immerses viewers in the rich traditions and excitement of Hollywood’s most celebrated night. Streaming live on THR’s YouTube channel, this preshow promises to be an essential watch for anyone eager to catch a glimpse of the magic before it unfolds on the big screen.