The Oscars are finally back after a year and a half of the COVID-19 pandemic taking over its usual Hollywood glamour. This year, many stars returned to the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California, all dressed to the nines and ready to celebrate a wonderful and unique array of films from all genres and themes. Here is what went down at this year’s award ceremony:
Best Picture
Winner: CODA
After receiving three Academy Award nominations and winning all of them, the heartfelt story of CODA won the most highly acclaimed award of the night. CODA is the first movie from a streaming service to win this award. The win was also extraordinary as it showcased deaf actors and the highs and lows of being a child of deaf adults.
Best Original Song
Winner: “No Time To Die” by Billie Eilish
The song for the most recent James Bond film, "No Time To Die," took home the Oscar, with Eilish and her brother, Finneas, side by side on stage. It’s the 20-year-old singer’s first Academy Award and will most likely not be her last. Eilish’s beautiful, eerie vocals along with Finneas’ intrinsic production skills allowed for the two to take home the gold, exemplifying the amazing partnership they share.
Best Director
Winner: Jane Campion
The New Zealand director won for her directorial skills in The Power of the Dog. She was the first woman to be nominated twice for this award and was finally recognized. Campion’s incredible work was a highlight of the night and was a great achievement for women.
Best Actress in a Supporting Role
Winner: Ariana DeBose
Debose won her first Oscar for her breakout role as Anita in West Side Story. Her win was monumental, as she is the first openly queer, Afro-Latina actress to receive in award in this category. From her exquisite dance technique to her raw and emotional portrayal as a Puerto Rican woman trying to live up to the harsh standards of American society, DeBose put her whole heart into this role, making her extremely deserving of this award.
Best Actor in a Supporting Role
Winner: Troy Kotsur
Kotsur also received his first Oscar for his role in Apple TV+’s CODA, in which he played a struggling father trying to keep his fishing business afloat. His win is the first time a deaf person has won an Oscar, proving just how special of a talent he possesses. After giving an emotional and personal speech, Kotsur’s appreciation for the gift he holds was evident throughout the rest of the night.
Best Actress in a Leading Role
Winner: Jessica Chastain
After playing a passionate and progressive American evangelist in The Eyes of Tammy Faye, Jessica Chastain won for Best Actress. Chastain thanked her cast and crew, acknowledging the mental health issues going on around the world. She also alluded to the violence, hate crimes and recent legislation passed in the U.S., signaling a major speech given throughout the night.
Best Actor in a Leading Role
Winner: Will Smith
Smith took home an Academy Award for his role as Serena and Venus Williams’ father and coach in King Richard after being nominated for the award two times previously. After a heated, and possibly staged, altercation with comedian Chris Rock beforehand, the actor was able to remain calm, giving an inspirational and touching speech about the legacy of Richard Williams.
