I tuned into the Oscars last night, and what a night it was! As expected, "Oppenheimer" dominated the awards, taking home so many of the major categories. Jimmy Kimmel was his usual funny self as the host, keeping the show entertaining and engaging throughout the night.
Here are some of my highlights:
Ryan Gosling's Spectacular Performance: Ryan Gosling just outperformed everybody! Haha, This was so much fun and now I have to go back and watch Barbie for the 3rd time! The musical performances were top-notch, but Ryan Gosling's "I'm Just Ken" from "Barbie" stole the show! It was a spectacular production, reminding us of what a talented actor and singer he is, not to mention his undeniable charm!
Emma Stone's Bold Win: Emma Stone's win for her role in "Poor Things" was a delightful surprise for me. Before watching the film last Thursday, I wasn't entirely sure if she would clinch the award. Now, having seen Emma's bold and brave portrayal of her character with a "baby brain" (Frankensteined together), I completely understand why she won. Lily Gladstone's performance was equally impressive but in a different way. We had a feeling it would be a tight race between these two!!! BTW- Her acceptance speech was heartfelt and genuine.
Touching Speeches: The powerful speeches by past Best Supporting Actress winners presenting each nominee were touching. Rita Moreno's words about America Ferrera's performance in "Barbie" particularly struck a chord with me. She mentioned the phenomenal monologue that resonated with so many women, myself included. The scene in Barbie is truly a history-defining moment.
Emotional Wins: Da'Vine Joy Randolph's win for "The Holdovers" was emotional, and her acceptance speech was moving.
Moving Musical Performances: Billie Eilish and Phineas' rendition of "What Was I Made For" from "Barbie" was incredibly moving, and they also took home the well-deserved Oscar for Best Original Song.
Beautiful Performance: Scott George and the Osage Singers' performance of "Wahzhazhe (A Song For My People)" was beautiful.
Light-Hearted Moments: Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt's banter as presenters, poking fun at each other's movies ("Barbie" and "Oppenheimer"), brought some light-hearted moments to the ceremony. John Cena added a dose of humor with his bit for Best Costume.
Emotional In Memoriam: The In Memoriam segment was as moving as always, with the music, dancers, and famous lines evoking deep emotions. Andrea Bocelli & Matteo Bocelli's "Time to Say Goodbye" was particularly touching.
Heartfelt Tributes: The speeches from previous winners about the current nominees (best actress/actor, best supporting actress/actor) were a great way to pay tribute to each performance. They were gracious and heartfelt.
In summary:
Best Actress: Emma Stone in "Poor Things."
Best Actor: Cillian Murphy for "Oppenheimer."
Best Supporting Actress: Da’Vine Joy Randolph in "The Holdovers".
Best Supporting Actor: Robert Downey Jr. for "Oppenheimer."
Best Director: Christopher Nolan for "Oppenheimer."
Best Picture: "Oppenheimer," winning 7 Oscars in total.
Best Original Song: Billie Eilish and Finneas O'Connell for “What Was I Made For” from "Barbie."
The 2024 Oscars was a night to remember, with unforgettable performances, emotional speeches, and well-deserved wins. "Oppenheimer" claimed its place as a standout film of the year, and I can't wait to see what the next year in cinema brings us!
Cheers!
Screens in Focus
Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling -The Oscars 2024