The 94th Academy Awards was shown live for the first time after it was taken off air due to the coronavirus pandemic. There were some surprises like ‘CODA’ taking the Best Picture, and some expected wins like Will Smith bagging a much-awaited Best Actor for his role in ‘King Richard‘.
While there were some controversies about eight main awards including those for score and editing being cut from the live broadcast, the show has been largely memorable. Here are the top moments from the events at Dolby Theatre, Los Angeles.
Hollywood for Ukraine: A show of solidarity
The war in Ukraine has greatly troubled the global community, as the nation faces a Russian invasion. Hollywood, which is known to stand up for certain causes, ensured that the message of solidarity rings true and clear during the night’s events.
Also Read | Troy Kotsur’s speech at Oscars 2022 moves hearts, internet calls it ‘most memorable’
There was a moment’s silence with a message that read:
“We would like to have a moment of silence to show our support for the people of Ukraine currently facing invasion, conflict and prejudice within their own borders.
While film is an important avenue for us to express our humanity in times of conflict, the reality is millions of families in Ukraine need food, medical care, clean water and emergency services. Resources are scarce. And we – collectively as a global community- can do more.
We ask you to support Ukraine, in any way you are able. #StandWithUkraine”
Celebrities like Jamie Lee Curtis also chose to walk down the red carpet, sporting a ribbon to show solidarity with refugees displaced due to the Ukraine war.
Also Read | How Hans Zimmer got Best Score Oscar before Academy Award announcement
Mila Kunis, a Ukrainian herself, drew attention to dire global events as well, before presenting at the Oscars. The ‘Black Swan’ actress has already started a fundraiser with husband Ashton Kutcher, to help Ukraine, and President Volodymyr Zelensky has thanked the Hollywood couple of the same.
Francis Ford Coppola, who appeared on stage as the Academy celebrated 50 years of ‘The Godfather’, also exclaimed ‘Viva Ukraine’ at the end of his speech.
Chris Rock-ed by Will Smith slap
Much like the shot heard around the world, this was the slap telecast for global audiences as ‘King Richard’ actor Will Smith, went on stage to hit comedian Chris Rock, for a joke on Jada Pinkett Smith, the actor’s wife.
Also Read | Florida’s ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill becomes laughing stock at Oscars 2022
Rock, who was presenting the Best Documentary award made fun of Pinkett Smith for her shaved hair, even after the actor has already shared her struggles with alopecia, a condition that causes hair loss. Smith also told Rock to keep Pinkett Smith’s name out of Rock’s mouth. Since then, the actor has apologized, Rock has declined to file a police report, and the Academy has issued a statement about not condoning violence in any form.
The show must go on: Amy Schumer’s reaction
Amy Schumer co-hosted the event effortless even after the slapping incident, showing her comic prowess. With feigned nonchalance, she asked, “Did I miss anything? There’s, like, a different vibe in here”.
Schumer also fist-bumped a member of the audience, before continuing with emceeing the event.
History in the making
Film is an undeniably powerful medium, and Oscars is perhaps the most pop-culturally relevant award show at present. Thus, representation of marginalized sections at the ceremony goes a long way in normalizing inclusion in mainstream movies.
Also Read | Audiences pick DC over Marvel at Oscars 2022
Oscars 2022 saw Ariana DeBose become the first Afro-Latina, openly LGBTQ and actor of colour to win the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the ‘West Side Story’ remake.
Meanwhile, Troy Kotsur made history too, becoming the first male deaf actor to win an Oscar. He was awarded for his supporting role in ‘CODA’.
For the love of cinema – Pulp Fiction and The Godfather reunions
Amid the glamour of the Academy Award ceremony, this year, viewers were reminded of cinema’s nostalgic power.
Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Pulp Fiction‘ celebrated 28 years of receiving the Best Screenplay award, and cast members Samuel L Jackson, Uma Thurman, and John Travolta reunited on stage to deliver some iconic dialogues, with references to ‘Royale with cheese’ and ‘five-dollar milkshake’. The trio announced the Best Actor winner.
Also Read | From Zendaya to Kristen Stewart, the top looks of Oscars 2022
The Oscars also celebrated 50 years of the mob epic, ‘The Godfather’, which saw Francis Ford Coppola take the stage along with Robert De Niro and Al Pacino, both of whom delivered iconic performances as a young Vito Corleone, and Michael Corleone, respectively.
