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.
In a heartfelt tribute, the Academy celebrated Hollywood’s resilience in the face of adversity. Despite the devastating wildfires that ravaged Southern California in January, the city continues to stand tall as a beacon of cinematic creativity. Through a montage titled “The Oscars Love L.A.,” the Academy showcased some of the most iconic moments from films set in Los Angeles, spanning decades of movie history. From classics like "The Long Goodbye" to modern hits such as "Barbie," the compilation highlights the enduring connection between the city and its silver screen legacy. The montage not only pays homage to the magic of filmmaking but also serves as a reminder of how deeply intertwined Hollywood is with the fabric of Los Angeles.
A Journey Through Time: Iconic Moments in L.A. Cinema
The tribute begins with a poignant quote from Dorothy Gale, played by Judy Garland, who says, "There's no place like home," followed by an iconic shot of the Hollywood sign. This sets the stage for a visual journey through the city's cinematic landmarks. In one scene, Dom Toretto and his crew from "F9" gaze out over downtown Los Angeles, capturing the city's bustling energy. Meanwhile, aspiring actress Betty Elms arrives in L.A. via taxi in David Lynch's surreal "Mulholland Drive," symbolizing the dreams and aspirations that draw so many to the city. The montage also includes a beachside stroll by Philip Marlowe in Robert Altman's "The Long Goodbye," and Rocky Balboa jogging along the shore in "Rocky III." Other memorable moments include Wesley Snipes sinking a basket while Woody Harrelson watches in "White Men Can’t Jump," and Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling rollerblading down Venice boardwalk in "Barbie." The sequence also features Ritchie Valens walking past a bridge in "La Bamba," Jack Nicholson stepping out of a vintage car in "Chinatown," and Tony Stark eating fast food inside a giant donut sign in "Iron Man 2." The montage concludes with Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling dancing atop their cars in the opening number of "La La Land," overlooking Burbank—a moment that encapsulates the city's timeless allure.
From the existential noir of "The Big Lebowski" to the futuristic romance of "Her," each clip offers a glimpse into the diverse narratives that have shaped Los Angeles's identity on screen. The montage also touches on the cultural significance of the city, with scenes from "Straight Outta Compton" showcasing the influence of hip-hop and Dr. Dre's deep connection to L.A. sports culture. The tribute ends with a tender moment from "Everything Everywhere All at Once," where Michelle Yeoh's character reflects on her place in the world, reinforcing the idea that Los Angeles has always been a city where dreams intersect with reality.
Through this carefully curated montage, the Academy not only celebrates the city's resilience but also honors the countless stories that have been told within its boundaries. Each film featured in the tribute represents a chapter in the ongoing love affair between Hollywood and Los Angeles, reminding viewers of the city's enduring charm and its role as a global center of creativity and innovation.
As a journalist, this tribute serves as a powerful reminder of the indelible impact Los Angeles has had on cinema. It underscores the city's ability to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike, offering a canvas where dreams are both dreamed and realized. The montage not only celebrates Hollywood's past but also looks forward to its future, reaffirming Los Angeles as a place where anything is possible. For readers, it invites reflection on the role of cities in shaping our collective imagination and how they continue to influence the stories we tell.