The Academy Awards hold significance to many within the film industry, and taking home an Oscar is an achievement not to be overlooked. This year’s ceremony was nothing short of entertaining featuring a performance from the “Wicked” cast and independent films dominating the night.
The show was hosted by TV host and comedian Conan O’Brien, but attention was drawn to Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s “Wicked” performance. The co-stars sang a rendition of an original song from each “The Wizard of Oz” spinoff. Each woman was nominated for an Oscar but didn’t take home an award.
Angelina Repetti ‘28, an avid film buff, said, “It was messed up they [the Academy] had them open but they [“Wicked”] barely won any awards.”
Repetti also said that the picture was “robbed” in most of its categories, along with many other critics who believe the movie wasn’t done justice.
“Emilia Pérez” was met with much controversy in its nominations, actors, and wins. Leading actress, Karla Sofía Gascón, is the first openly trans actor to be nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role. Some felt this took away from other nominees in Gascón’s category, but also were bothered by derogatory social media posts Gascón has made in the past, which resurfaced before the ceremony according to USA Today.
“El Mal” from “Emilia Pérez” also won Best Original Song at the awards, where viewers found the acceptance speech a “horrific cringe.” Camille Audiard, one of the songwriters, ended the speech by bursting into song and trying to get the audience to join chanting “Emilia! Emilia!”
The indie film “Anora,” directed by Sean Baker, dominated the big night by taking home five Oscars. Wins included: Best Picture, Best Actress, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Film Editing, and Best Supporting Actor.
Critics felt the leading winner was a breakout role for many actors within the movie and a worthy winner of its awards. Winning, leading actress Mikey Madison recognized the sex worker community that the film features in her acceptance speech.
Last year’s films brought diversity in many different ways, in content and representation. This push from critics and response from the industry has promoted the relatability that we are seeing in recent films today.
