94th Academy Awards: The Full Show Highlights

Hey guys! Let's dive into the 94th Academy Awards, a night filled with glitz, glamour, and a few unforgettable moments! If you missed the live broadcast or just want to relive the highlights, you’re in the right place. This article covers the most significant wins, memorable speeches, and of course, that moment that had everyone talking. Buckle up, because it was quite a ride!

The Big Winners

The 94th Academy Awards celebrated some truly outstanding films. It’s always exciting to see which movies resonated most with the Academy, and this year was no exception. From historical dramas to heartwarming stories, the range of winning films showcased the incredible diversity and talent in the film industry.

Best Picture: CODA

CODA's win for Best Picture was a landmark moment. This heartwarming film tells the story of Ruby, a child of deaf adults (CODA), who juggles her family's fishing business with her own aspirations of attending music school. What made this win so significant? Well, CODA is a film that champions inclusivity and representation, featuring a predominantly deaf cast. Troy Kotsur made history by becoming the first deaf male actor to win an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor, and his emotional acceptance speech brought many to tears. The film's journey to the top, starting as an independent film acquired by Apple TV+, is a testament to the power of authentic storytelling. The themes of family, dreams, and overcoming obstacles resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, making it a deserving winner of the night's top honor. CODA's victory is not just a win for the film itself but a win for representation and inclusivity in Hollywood, paving the way for more diverse stories to be told and celebrated.

Best Director: Jane Campion (The Power of the Dog)

Jane Campion clinched the Best Director award for her masterful work on The Power of the Dog. This psychological Western, set in 1920s Montana, explores themes of masculinity, repression, and unspoken desires. Campion's win was historic; she became the third woman to ever win the award, following Kathryn Bigelow and Chloé Zhao. Her direction in The Power of the Dog is nothing short of brilliant. She created a visually stunning and emotionally complex film that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Campion's meticulous attention to detail, from the sweeping landscapes to the intimate character interactions, truly brought Thomas Savage's novel to life. Her win is a significant moment for female directors in Hollywood, inspiring future generations of women to pursue their passion for filmmaking. The film itself garnered significant attention for its performances, cinematography, and haunting score, but it was Campion's vision that tied it all together, making it a standout film of the year. The Power of the Dog is a testament to Campion's skill as a storyteller and her ability to create compelling and thought-provoking cinema.

Best Actor: Will Smith (King Richard)

Will Smith took home the Best Actor award for his portrayal of Richard Williams, the father and coach of tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams, in King Richard. This biographical drama tells the inspiring story of how Richard Williams defied the odds and guided his daughters to become two of the greatest athletes of all time. Smith's performance was powerful and nuanced, capturing Richard's unwavering determination, his unconventional methods, and his deep love for his family. King Richard is more than just a sports movie; it's a story about family, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams. Smith's dedication to the role was evident, and he truly embodied the spirit of Richard Williams. While his win was overshadowed by an earlier incident during the ceremony, it's important to acknowledge the incredible work he put into this role. King Richard is a testament to the power of family and the belief in oneself, and Smith's portrayal of Richard Williams brought this story to life in a compelling and unforgettable way.

Best Actress: Jessica Chastain (The Eyes of Tammy Faye)

Jessica Chastain won Best Actress for her stunning transformation into Tammy Faye Bakker in The Eyes of Tammy Faye. This biopic tells the story of the rise and fall of televangelists Tammy Faye and Jim Bakker, exploring themes of faith, ambition, and redemption. Chastain's performance was nothing short of remarkable. She fully immersed herself in the role, capturing Tammy Faye's larger-than-life personality, her unwavering optimism, and her genuine compassion for others. The Eyes of Tammy Faye is a fascinating look at a complex and controversial figure, and Chastain's portrayal humanized Tammy Faye in a way that few could have imagined. The film delves into the world of televangelism, exploring the excesses and scandals that plagued the Bakkers' empire. Chastain's win is a testament to her dedication to her craft and her ability to bring complex characters to life on screen. The Eyes of Tammy Faye is a reminder that there's often more to a person than meets the eye, and Chastain's performance is both captivating and heartbreaking.

Memorable Moments

The 94th Academy Awards weren't just about the awards; they were also filled with unforgettable moments that had everyone talking. From emotional acceptance speeches to surprising performances, there was never a dull moment.

The Slap Heard Around the World

Okay, let’s address the elephant in the room. The most talked-about moment of the night was undoubtedly the incident between Will Smith and Chris Rock. After Rock made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith's shaved head (she has alopecia), Will Smith walked on stage and slapped Rock across the face. The moment was shocking and completely overshadowed the rest of the ceremony. The internet exploded with reactions, memes, and debates about whether Smith's actions were justified. Regardless of your opinion, it was an unprecedented moment in Oscars history, and it will likely be remembered for years to come. The Academy has since condemned Smith's actions, and the incident has sparked a larger conversation about comedy, respect, and the boundaries of acceptable behavior. It's a moment that will forever be etched in Oscars history, and it serves as a reminder that live television can be unpredictable and sometimes, downright chaotic.

Ariana DeBose's Historic Win

Amidst the controversy, there were moments of pure joy and celebration. Ariana DeBose won Best Supporting Actress for her role as Anita in West Side Story, making history as the first openly queer woman of color to win an acting Oscar. Her acceptance speech was inspiring and heartfelt, as she spoke about the importance of representation and the power of art to unite us. DeBose's win was a significant moment for the LGBTQ+ community and a testament to her incredible talent. Her portrayal of Anita was electrifying, and she brought a fresh and dynamic energy to the iconic role. West Side Story is a timeless classic, and DeBose's performance helped to breathe new life into the beloved musical. Her win is a reminder that representation matters and that everyone deserves to see themselves reflected on screen. DeBose's historic win is a moment of progress and celebration, and it inspires hope for a more inclusive and equitable future in Hollywood.

Troy Kotsur's Groundbreaking Victory

As mentioned earlier, Troy Kotsur's win for Best Supporting Actor for his role in CODA was another historic moment. He is the second deaf actor to win an Oscar, following in the footsteps of his CODA co-star Marlee Matlin. His acceptance speech, delivered in American Sign Language, was incredibly moving and humorous. He dedicated his award to the deaf community and emphasized the importance of deaf representation in film. Kotsur's performance in CODA was both heartwarming and hilarious, and he brought a unique perspective to the role of a deaf father navigating the challenges of raising a hearing daughter. His win is a testament to his talent and a significant step forward for deaf actors in Hollywood. CODA is a film that celebrates diversity and inclusion, and Kotsur's win is a reminder that everyone deserves to have their stories told. His victory is a moment of joy and celebration, and it inspires hope for a more inclusive and accessible future in the film industry.

Performances and Presentations

The 94th Academy Awards also featured some spectacular performances and presentations that added to the excitement of the night. From dazzling musical numbers to heartfelt tributes, there was something for everyone.

Beyoncé's Opening Performance

The show kicked off with a bang, as Beyoncé delivered a stunning performance of her song