The 97th Academy Awards: A Celebration of Resilience Amid Devastation
The 97th Academy Awards are set to take place on Sunday, March 2, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, despite the devastating wildfires that swept through the city earlier this year. The ceremony, broadcast live by ABC and streamed on platforms like Hulu, YouTubeTV, and others, marks a moment of resilience for the film community. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has emphasized the importance of moving forward with the event, not only for its economic impact on Los Angeles but also as a symbol of unity and strength in the face of tragedy. While some called for the cancellation of the Oscars, the Academy remained committed to celebrating the work that unites the global film community while acknowledging the bravery of those who fought the fires.
A Shift in Tradition: Changes to the Ceremony and Celebrations
This year’s Oscars will look different from previous years, as the wildfires have significantly impacted the usual pomp and circumstance of Hollywood’s awards season. The Academy canceled its annual nominees luncheon, a beloved tradition that brings together the year’s nominees for a celebration of their work. Additionally, the original song nominees will not perform their songs during the ceremony, a departure from a long-standing Oscar tradition. However, music will still play a role, with hints that Wicked, one of 2024’s biggest box-office hits, could be incorporated into the show in some way. The film’s songs, adapted from the Broadway musical, were not eligible for Best Original Song, but its presence may still be felt.
Conan O’Brien Brings Humor and Heart as Host
For the first time, Conan O’Brien will host the Academy Awards, bringing his signature wit and charm to the stage. O’Brien, known for his late-night talk show and podcasting ventures, announced his hosting role with his characteristic humor, comparing the excitement of his gig to the launch of Taco Bell’s new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme. However, the gravity of the moment is not lost on him. O’Brien’s Pacific Palisades home survived the wildfires, but his family has been unable to return, and his assistant, Sona Movsesian, lost her home. These personal experiences have shaped his approach to hosting, as he has expressed a desire to ensure the show reflects the challenges faced by the community and highlights the stories of those affected.
A Diverse Slate of Nominees and a Wide-Open Race
The competition for this year’s Oscars is fierce, with a diverse slate of films vying for top honors. The 10 Best Picture nominees include Anora, The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part 2, Emilia Pérez, I’m Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked. The race is unusually wide open, with several films in contention for the top prize. In the acting categories, Demi Moore (The Substance) is favored for Best Actress, while Adrien Brody (The Brutalist) leads in the Best Actor category. Zoe Saldaña (Emilia Pérez) and Kieran Culkin (A Real Pain) are frontrunners for supporting roles, though no category is considered a lock.
Emotional Depth and Controversy: The Story Behind the Nominees
One of the most notable stories of this year’s Oscars is Jacques Audiard’s Emilia Pérez, a narco-musical about a Mexican drug lord who undergoes gender-affirming surgery. The film leads with 13 nominations and made history when its star, Karla Sofía Gascón, became the first openly trans actor to be nominated for an Oscar. However, the film’s Oscar campaign has been marred by controversy after offensive tweets from Gascón’s past resurfaced, leading to an apology and a significant backlash. Despite these challenges, Emilia Pérez remains a divisive yet powerful contender, reflecting the complex storytelling that defines this year’s nominees.
The Oscars as a Beacon of Hope and Unity
The 97th Academy Awards are more than just a celebration of cinematic achievement; they serve as a beacon of hope and unity for a community that has faced immense challenges. As Los Angeles rebuilds and recovers, the Oscars offer a moment to come together, honor the art of filmmaking, and acknowledge the resilience of those who have been affected by the wildfires. With its diverse slate of nominees, a new host at the helm, and a renewed focus on solidarity, this year’s ceremony promises to be a memorable and meaningful event. For more coverage of the Academy Awards, visit AP News.
