After the devastating wildfires that tore through Los Angeles, many were left wondering if the 97th Academy Awards would still go on. However, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has made the decision to move forward with the ceremony, despite the challenges faced by the film community. In the midst of this difficult time, the Academy has also pledged to support its members and the broader film community in their recovery efforts. Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s Oscars.
When are the Oscars?
The Oscars will take place on March 2nd at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles. The ceremony will be broadcast live on ABC starting at 7 p.m. Eastern/4 p.m. Pacific.
Who’s hosting the Oscars?
Conan O’Brien will be hosting the Academy Awards for the first time. The late-night host turned podcaster and occasional movie star joked upon the announcement, “America demanded it and now it’s happening: Taco Bell’s new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme. In other news, I’m hosting the Oscars.”
How have the wildfires altered the show?
The wildfires that ravaged parts of Los Angeles in early January have certainly had an impact on the Oscars. Some called for the cancellation of the ceremony, but the Academy has decided to push forward. They believe that the show must go on, not only for its economic impact on Los Angeles but also as a symbol of resilience. The organizers have promised that this year’s awards will “celebrate the work that unites us as a global film community and acknowledge those who fought so bravely against the wildfires.”
Despite the determination to continue with the ceremony, the fires have certainly affected the usual excitement and buzz surrounding Hollywood’s awards season. The Academy has even cancelled its annual nominees’ luncheon.
For many involved in the Oscars, the fires hit close to home. O’Brien’s Pacific Palisades home survived, but his assistant and podcast co-host Sona Movsesian lost her home. “I know so many people who lost their homes and I’m just, was ridiculously lucky,” O’Brien told The Associated Press. “So, we want to make sure that the show reflects what’s happening and that we put a light on the right people in the right way.”
Who’s presenting at the Oscars?
Last week, more stars were added to the already star-studded presenter lineup. Selena Gomez, Oprah Winfrey, Joe Alwyn, Goldie Hawn, Ben Stiller, Ana de Armas, Sterling K. Brown, Willem Dafoe, Lily-Rose Depp, and Connie Nielsen will all be making appearances. They will join the likes of Halle Berry, Penelope Cruz, Elle Fanning, Whoopi Goldberg, Scarlett Johansson, John Lithgow, Amy Poehler, June Squibb, and Bowen Yang, as well as last year’s acting winners – Emma Stone, Robert Downey Jr., Cillian Murphy, and Da’Vine Joy Randolph – on the Oscar stage.
Initially, the Academy had planned to bring back the “fab five” style of presenting the acting awards, with five previous winners per category. However, it has been reported that they have abandoned these plans for this year’s ceremony. Nick Offerman will also be participating as the Oscars announcer.
Will there be any performances?
The Academy has announced that, unlike previous years, the original song nominees will not be performed at this year’s ceremony. However, that doesn’t mean there won’t be any music. Doja Cat, LISA of Blackpink, Queen Latifah, and RAYE will all be part of “showstopping performances celebrating the filmmaking community and some of its legends,” as announced by the producers on Monday. Wicked’s Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande will also be performing. The Los Angeles Master Chorale will make an appearance as well.
What’s nominated for best picture?
This year, there are 10 nominees for best picture: Anora, The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part 2, Emilia Perez, I’m Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked.
How can I watch the Oscar-nominated films?
Some of the nominated films are still in theaters, but many are available for streaming on various platforms.
Who are the favorites?
This year, it’s difficult to pinpoint a clear front-runner. However, Anora has emerged as a
