Conan's Humor Takes Center Stage: A Night to Remember
Anora's Impact on the Red Carpet
Conan O'Brien wasted no time in setting the tone for the evening. He introduced Anora, whose use of the f-word reportedly surpassed all previous records. This humorous jab not only set the audience laughing but also highlighted the unpredictable nature of celebrity behavior. The mention of Karla Sofia Gascon, an actress embroiled in controversy due to her past racially charged tweets, added another layer of intrigue to the night. Despite the controversy surrounding her Netflix film, Gascon's presence was acknowledged by the audience with applause. O'Brien's subtle reminder to Gascon about remembering his name as Jimmy Kimmel underscored the delicate balance between comedy and respect.The impact of Gascon's absence from the red carpet cannot be understated. It signaled a shift in public perception and potentially affected the film's chances of winning prestigious awards. Yet, O'Brien's ability to address this sensitive topic with humor showcased his skill in navigating complex issues while keeping the audience entertained.A Monologue Full of Surprises
O'Brien's monologue was a masterclass in comedic timing. He poked fun at his own appearance, joking about looking his age, which resonated with many viewers who appreciate self-deprecating humor. The comedian also playfully referenced being called "A Complete Unknown" and "A Real Pain," drawing laughs from the crowd. His remarks about Netflix's impressive number of price increases provided a clever commentary on the streaming giant's business practices.One of the most memorable moments came when O'Brien praised the film "Wicked," nominated in ten categories. He quipped that it's the perfect movie for those who wondered what happened to the minor characters from "The Wizard of Oz." This witty observation delighted fans of both classic and modern cinema. Another highlight was his take on "The Brutalist," a film he claimed didn't end, much like its plot. These jokes not only entertained but also offered insightful critiques of contemporary films.Paying Tribute to Cinema's Diversity
Conan O'Brien's hosting style was marked by a deep appreciation for cinema's diversity. He emphasized the importance of celebrating films from different countries and perspectives, highlighting their relevance in today's global landscape. This sentiment was particularly evident in his comments about "Conclave," a film about the Catholic Church. O'Brien assured the audience that despite the subject matter, the movie had something for everyone.The inclusion of Timothée Chalamet's nomination for Best Actor for his portrayal of Bob Dylan added another dimension to the night. O'Brien shared an amusing anecdote about Dylan wanting to attend the ceremony but not enough to disrupt his schedule. He also mentioned Chalamet's role in "Dune 2," where director Denis Villeneuve banned smartphones on set to prevent actors from Googling the movie's plot. Such anecdotes brought a human touch to the glamorous event.Opening Performance Sets the Tone
The evening began with a powerful performance by the stars of "Wicked." Ariana Grande's rendition of "Over the Rainbow" and Cynthia Erivo's soulful delivery of "Home" set the stage for a night of musical magic. Their duet of "Defying Gravity" earned a standing ovation, reminding everyone why these performers are celebrated for their talent. This opening act not only showcased the best of Broadway but also foreshadowed the celebratory spirit of the Oscars.O'Brien's Personal Reflections
Conan O'Brien's decision to host the Oscars was driven by a profound belief in the significance of the event. He expressed that despite the challenges, including the recent loss of both his parents, he felt honored to be part of such a meaningful occasion. O'Brien's commitment to inclusivity and avoiding political screeds ensured that the show appealed to a wide audience. His dedication to celebrating good cinema from diverse backgrounds highlighted the importance of storytelling in uniting people across cultures.Celebrity appearances at prestigious award ceremonies often draw attention not only for their performances and speeches but also for their fashion choices, particularly their wristwatches. At recent events like the Grammys, BAFTAs, Golden Globes, and Critics Choice Awards, various stars have showcased an array of timepieces that complemented their outfits and added a touch of elegance. From diamond-encrusted chronographs to classic steel-cased watches, these accessories highlighted individual styles while reflecting the personalities of the wearers. The watches ranged from sleek designs to bold statements, each chosen carefully to match the occasion and attire.
Iconic Timepieces on the Red Carpet
At several high-profile award shows, notable figures made significant impressions with their choice of wristwear. For instance, during the Grammy Awards, one performer wore a striking titanium watch adorned with diamonds, which commanded attention due to its intricate design and luxurious appearance. Similarly, another celebrity chose a black-dialed chronograph encased in ultra-thin pink gold, creating a sophisticated contrast against his outfit. These selections demonstrated how timepieces can enhance personal style and convey messages about taste and status.
During the Grammy Awards, Lojay opted for Hublot’s Big Bang Unico Titanium White Diamonds, featuring a self-winding flyback chronograph movement within a 42mm titanium case, embellished with 126 diamonds. This piece not only stood out visually but also symbolized opulence and precision. Meanwhile, Andrew Garfield selected Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Small Seconds, characterized by its black dial and strap paired with an ultra-thin rectangular case in pink gold. Such choices reflect both the wearer's preference for understated elegance and the technical excellence of Swiss craftsmanship. Each watch tells a story about its owner and the event it graced.
Matching Style and Occasion
The selection of watches also considered the specific context and venue of each award show. For example, at the BAFTAs, an actor presented with a chronograph featuring a sunburst-patterned dial, perfectly aligning with the formal ambiance of the ceremony. At the Golden Globes, another star wore a watch whose terra-cotta dial harmonized beautifully with the setting, enhancing the overall visual experience. These deliberate pairings illustrated the importance of coordination between attire and accessories.
Simon Pegg wore Zenith’s Defy Skyline Chronograph at the BAFTAs, which boasted a black sunburst-patterned dial housed in a 42mm steel case and bracelet. This choice underscored the classic yet modern aesthetic appropriate for such an esteemed gathering. Kieran Culkin, winner of best supporting actor at the Golden Globes, complemented his accolade with Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Shades, featuring a terra-cotta dial that matched the atmosphere of the event. Moreover, Jeff Goldblum donned Jacob & Co.’s Astronomia Baguette Tourbillon Collection, a unique green-hued piece that epitomized his characteristically eccentric style. These examples highlight how celebrities use watches to express themselves while respecting the traditions and settings of award ceremonies.
The 2025 Academy Awards promises to be an evening filled with suspense and elegance. Held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, this year's event will captivate audiences for its entire duration of three and a half hours. Broadcasting live on ABC and Hulu, starting at 4 p.m. PT/7 p.m. ET, viewers can expect an unpredictable outcome for several top categories. Speculation abounds regarding potential winners, from acting accolades to best picture honors. Additionally, the red carpet fashion spectacle rivals that of the Met Gala, with celebrities donning their finest attire. Political undertones may also influence the night’s proceedings, adding another layer of intrigue.
Intrigue and Glamour Unveiled at the Dolby Theatre
In the heart of Hollywood, under the golden glow of a late winter afternoon, the Dolby Theatre is set to host the prestigious 2025 Academy Awards. As the sun sets, the red carpet transforms into a runway where fashion enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the stylish arrivals of Hollywood's elite. The ceremony, which begins at 4 p.m. PT/7 p.m. ET, is expected to keep viewers on the edge of their seats for its entirety, spanning three and a half hours.
This year, the competition for major awards is exceptionally tight. In the Best Actor category, Adrien Brody's performance in "The Brutalist" faces stiff competition from Timothée Chalamet's portrayal of Bob Dylan in "A Complete Unknown." Similarly, in the Best Actress race, Demi Moore's role in "The Substance" has garnered significant attention, but Fernanda Torres' acclaimed performance in "I’m Still Here" could surprise many. For Best Picture, "The Brutalist" competes against the box-office sensation "Wicked," which has already made history as the highest-grossing Broadway musical adaptation ever.
Beyond the awards, the evening's entertainment includes witty remarks from host Conan O’Brien and possibly impassioned speeches from the winners. Fashion fans are particularly excited about the red carpet, where stars like Selena Gomez, Margaret Qualley, Mikey Madison, Ariana Grande, Zoe Saldaña, Colman Domingo, and Jeremy Strong will showcase their sartorial choices. Each arrival adds to the glamour and excitement of the night.
The Hollywood Reporter will provide live updates throughout the evening, ensuring that no moment goes unnoticed. From the first steps on the red carpet to the final award announcement, every detail of this star-studded event will be captured and shared with eager audiences around the world.
From a journalist's perspective, the 2025 Oscars exemplify the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. The uncertainty surrounding the winners keeps the audience engaged, while the red carpet offers a visual feast of fashion. This event not only celebrates cinematic achievements but also reflects the evolving landscape of Hollywood, where artistry and spectacle converge. It reminds us that, despite the unpredictability, the magic of cinema continues to inspire and captivate.