The 97th Academy Awards – A Night of Triumphs, Controversies, and Unforgettable Moments
Hollywood's biggest night, the 97th Academy Awards, took over the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday, delivering a mix of expected wins, emotional speeches, and, of course, its fair share of drama. While the glitz and glamour shined on the red carpet, the event itself was not without its chaotic moments—both inside and outside the venue.
Getting to the ceremony was an ordeal in itself. Protesters blocked roads, Hollywood Boulevard was fenced off, and strict security checks made it nearly impossible for onlookers to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars. Even police helicopters hovered overhead, adding to the tense atmosphere. But once inside, the magic of the Oscars took over.
The big winner of the night? Anora , Sean Baker’s powerful drama, which dominated with five wins, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress for Mikey Madison. The film’s success was a moment of celebration for independent cinema, proving once again that small-budget films can make a big impact.
Kieran Culkin, known for his sharp wit and deadpan humor, won Best Supporting Actor for A Real Pain . He may insist he’s nothing like his characters, but his backstage antics suggested otherwise. He joked about the height of the microphone and playfully dodged questions about why he initially turned down the role.
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Meanwhile, Dune: Part Two didn’t go home empty-handed. The sci-fi epic bagged awards for Best Visual Effects and Best Sound, with the winners showering praise on director Denis Villeneuve for his visionary storytelling and leadership. "We are here because of him," they emphasized in their speeches.
Politics, as always, found its way into the evening. While former U.S. President Donald Trump’s name wasn’t explicitly mentioned, his presence was felt in the discourse. Brazilian filmmaker Walter Salles, who won Best International Film for I'm Still Here , used his speech to highlight the fragility of democracy worldwide, drawing parallels between past authoritarian regimes and today’s political climate.
Zoe Saldaña made history as the first Dominican actress to win an Oscar, taking home Best Supporting Actress for Emilia Pérez . However, her victory came with controversy. A Mexican journalist questioned the film’s portrayal of Mexico, to which Saldaña responded with sincerity, saying, "This film came from the heart, and I am always open to dialogue with love and respect."
Adding to the night’s unpredictability was Jacques Audiard, who won Best Original Song for El Mal . When asked about the importance of the award, he shrugged and admitted that songwriting was something he had only done once in his life. His brief but candid response left reporters wanting more.
Despite the winners and celebrations, the ceremony itself had its awkward moments. Hosted by Conan O’Brien, the event dragged in parts, with long-winded speeches, uncomfortable jokes, and a mixed-bag tribute to James Bond’s legacy. While musical performances from stars like Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo brought some energy, other segments left viewers cringing.
As the night wrapped up, one thing was clear: the 97th Academy Awards were as much about the films as they were about the controversies surrounding them. From intense political statements to heartfelt gratitude, Hollywood once again proved that the Oscars are never just about the trophies—they are a reflection of the world, in all its complexity.
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