The 96th Academy Awards showcases the glitz and glam, but also recognizes achievements and world issues
Despite challenges in the industry this year, Hollywood remains a source of creativity and inspiration
The 96th Academy Awards faced a relatively straightforward task as 2023 witnessed a plethora of successful films, both creatively and commercially.
With hits like Barbie and Oppenheimer alongside unexpected successes and cinematic masterpieces, the ceremony had a wealth of material to celebrate. The telecast, led by host Jimmy Kimmel, aimed to uplift honorees without overshadowing their accomplishments.
While major award winners were largely predictable, the show provided ample entertainment and emotion. Kimmel’s confident professionalism set the tone, aligning with the evening’s brief spotlight achievements without unnecessary theatrics.
The supporting actress award introduced a format featuring former winners paying tribute to specific nominees, creating personalized acts of praise. Despite some staple elements like presenter banter and scripted bits, the focus remained on the winners.
The first half featured emotional first-time winners, such as Da’Vine Joy Randolph and Cord Jefferson, who urged the industry to take creative risks. Godzilla Minus One surprised viewers with a win for best visual effects, adding variety to the night.
Christopher Nolan’s film Oppenheimer, a thought-provoking exploration of the atomic era’s onset, dominated the 96th Academy Awards by securing seven wins, including “Best Picture” and “Best Director.” The film’s relevance in the context of current global conflicts added to its impact. Cillian Murphy received an Oscar for his haunting portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer, and Robert Downey Jr. was recognized for his supporting role as a vengeful bureaucrat.
The ceremony also witnessed protests calling for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war and speeches highlighting humanitarian crises in Gaza and Ukraine. Despite these demonstrations, Nolan, with a history of Oscar nominations, expressed gratitude for finally receiving recognition and emphasized the significance of cinema’s role in shaping our collective history.
Emma Stone earned her second “Best Actress” Oscar for Poor Things, contributing to the film’s four victories.
The awards occurred against the backdrop of a turbulent year in Hollywood marked by labour disputes, streaming controversies, and declining Oscars viewership. The industry grappled with the impact of streaming services on traditional revenue models, while popular films like Oppenheimer and Barbie aimed to revive interest in the awards show.
Sad news for Barbie, though. Despite earning eight Oscar nominations, the film secured only a modest triumph in the form of “Best Song,” which “What Am I Made For?” by Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell took home.
Now, Margot Robbie and Greta Gerwig must content themselves with their $1.45 billion consolation prize. Just imagine their disappointment.
Ryan Gosling’s performance of “I’m Just Ken” lived up to the anticipation, contributing to the night’s entertainment. His playful riff on the “Barbenheimer” rivalry with Emily Blunt showcased his comedic prowess.
While largely avoiding politics, notable exceptions included Jonathan Glazer’s speech on the war in Gaza, a tribute to the late Russian activist Alexei Navalny, and Mstyslav Chernov’s commentary on the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Whether you’re a film enthusiast or just enjoy the glitz of Hollywood’s biggest night, the 2024 Oscars promised a plethora of memorable fashion moments. The Barbie press tour concluded with a vibrant pink statement from America Ferrera, while stars like Robbie, Gosling, and Gerwig opted for more understated hues, though Gosling later rocked a pink suit during his “I’m Just Ken” performance.
The event boasted a star-studded guest list, including Zendaya, Lily Gladstone, Murphy, Blunt, Randolph, Eilish, Michelle Yeoh, Issa Rae, Florence Pugh, Colman Domingo, and Jodie Foster.
This awards season lacked a clear villain, and even heavy favourites acknowledged their team’s contributions. Nolan, accepting a “Best Director” award, emphasized cinema’s past and future over personal recognition. While there were disappointments, such as Killers of the Flower Moon missing out on wins (Lily Gladstone was robbed), pleasing upsets like The Zone of Interest winning “Best Sound” occurred.
The absence of nostalgic montages highlighted the industry’s present achievements, emphasizing that, despite challenges like strikes and a pandemic, Hollywood remains a source of creativity and inspiration.
