Oscars 2022: All The Winners & Surprises

Hey everyone! Can you believe the 94th Academy Awards just wrapped up? It was a night full of glitz, glamour, and, of course, some major surprises. We saw some expected wins, some totally jaw-dropping moments, and a whole lot of amazing talent being celebrated. So, grab your popcorn, folks, because we're diving deep into the 2022 Oscars and breaking down all the big winners and the moments that had us all talking.

Best Picture: A Surprise Upset with CODA**

Alright, let's kick things off with the biggest award of the night: Best Picture. And wow, did we get a surprise here! CODA, the heartwarming story of a child of deaf adults, took home the coveted gold statue. Honestly, this was a huge moment for Apple TV+ and a testament to the power of smaller, character-driven films. Many had predicted The Power of the Dog to snag this one, and while it was a strong contender with loads of nominations, CODA's win felt incredibly special. It's a story that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, proving that a film doesn't need to be a blockbuster to win hearts and awards. The wins for CODA weren't just for the film itself, but also for the incredible cast and crew who poured their hearts into this project. Troy Kotsur's win for Best Supporting Actor was also a massive moment, making him the second deaf actor to ever win an Oscar. It’s moments like these that make the Oscars so much more than just a show; they're a celebration of diverse storytelling and breaking down barriers in Hollywood. The energy in the room when CODA was announced as Best Picture was electric, and you could just feel the collective joy and pride. This win signifies a potential shift in how Academy voters perceive films, perhaps leaning more towards genuine emotional connection and authentic narratives over sheer scale or critical darling status. It's a win for the underdogs, and honestly, we love to see it. The film's success at the Oscars is a powerful reminder that compelling stories, regardless of their budget or distribution platform, can truly shine and capture the essence of the human experience. The Oscars 2022 Best Picture award going to CODA is definitely one for the history books.

Best Director: Jane Campion Shines for The Power of the Dog**

Moving on to Best Director, the award went to Jane Campion for her incredible work on The Power of the Dog. This was a huge moment, guys, as Campion became the third woman ever to win this prestigious award, and the first woman to be nominated twice in this category. Her direction was masterful, creating a tense and atmospheric Western that explored complex characters and simmering emotions. The Jane Campion win was well-deserved, acknowledging her years of dedication to filmmaking and her unique artistic vision. The Power of the Dog is a slow burn, a character study that truly immerses you in its world, and Campion's steady hand guided every nuanced performance and stunning visual. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting reflection on masculinity, repression, and the wild, untamed landscapes that can mirror our inner lives. Her acceptance speech was also moving, touching on the challenges and triumphs of being a female director in a male-dominated industry. It’s inspiring to see women making such significant strides at the Academy Awards. This win isn't just a personal triumph for Campion; it's a beacon for aspiring female filmmakers everywhere, signaling that their voices and visions are not only valued but can achieve the highest honors in cinema. The Oscars 2022 Best Director award solidifies her place among the greats, and it was a truly emotional moment to witness. Her dedication to her craft and her fearless exploration of complex themes have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on modern cinema. The way she builds tension, uses silence, and elicits raw, powerful performances from her cast is nothing short of genius. It's a masterclass in filmmaking, and this Oscar is a testament to her extraordinary talent and perseverance.

Best Actor and Best Actress: Smith and Yeoh Make History

Now, let's talk about the acting categories. Will Smith took home the Best Actor Oscar for his powerful portrayal of Richard Williams in King Richard. This was a long-awaited win for Smith, who has delivered countless memorable performances throughout his career. His role as the determined father of Venus and Serena Williams showcased his range and depth as an actor. While his emotional acceptance speech was powerful, it was unfortunately overshadowed by the incident involving Chris Rock earlier in the evening. Regardless, Smith's win was a significant moment, recognizing his contribution to cinema. Then, in a moment that made everyone cheer, Michelle Yeoh won Best Actress for Everything Everywhere All at Once. This was a groundbreaking win, making Yeoh the first Asian woman to ever win Best Actress at the Oscars! Seriously, how amazing is that?! Her performance in Everything Everywhere All at Once was nothing short of spectacular, navigating multiple universes and delivering a tour de force that was both hilarious and deeply moving. The Oscars 2022 Best Actress award for Yeoh is a monumental achievement and a victory for representation in Hollywood. It's a testament to her incredible talent, her decades of hard work, and her ability to captivate audiences across genres. Her win is not just for her; it's for all the dreamers, for all those who have been told they don't fit the mold, proving that the multiverse of possibilities is real and attainable. This win is a powerful statement about breaking down barriers and celebrating diverse talent on the world's biggest stage. The standing ovation she received was a clear indicator of the overwhelming love and respect she commands within the industry. Her speech was eloquent and heartfelt, emphasizing the importance of holding onto dreams and the power of love. It was a truly inspiring moment that will be remembered for years to come. The Will Smith Oscar win and the Michelle Yeoh Best Actress award were two of the most talked-about moments of the night, for very different reasons, but both undeniably significant.

Supporting Roles: Kotsur and Wishaw Triumph

Let's not forget the incredible supporting actors! Troy Kotsur made history by winning Best Supporting Actor for his role in CODA. As mentioned earlier, he's the second deaf actor to win an Oscar, and his performance was simply brilliant. His sign language interpretation during his acceptance speech was incredibly moving and powerful, receiving a standing ovation. This win is a huge step forward for the deaf community and for representation in Hollywood. The Troy Kotsur Oscar is a testament to his talent and the impactful storytelling of CODA. On the other hand, Ariana DeBose won Best Supporting Actress for her electrifying performance as Anita in West Side Story. Her rendition of "America" was a showstopper, and her win was a joyous moment for the cast and crew of the beloved musical remake. DeBose brought a vibrant energy and emotional depth to her role, honoring the original while making Anita her own. Her acceptance speech was filled with gratitude and a message of hope, reminding us of the power of dreams and perseverance. The Ariana DeBose win celebrates her incredible talent and contribution to bringing a classic musical back to life for a new generation. Both Kotsur and DeBose delivered performances that were not only technically brilliant but also emotionally resonant, leaving a lasting impression on audiences. These Oscars 2022 supporting actor and actress wins highlight the incredible depth of talent across the nominated films.

Screenplay and Animated Feature: A Look at the Writers and Animators

In the screenplay categories, Best Original Screenplay went to Belfast, written and directed by Kenneth Branagh. This personal story, inspired by Branagh's childhood during The Troubles in Northern Ireland, resonated deeply with voters. It's a powerful and poignant film that captures the innocence of childhood amidst conflict. The Belfast screenplay win acknowledges Branagh's masterful storytelling and his ability to translate personal experience into universal themes. For Best Adapted Screenplay, the Oscar went to CODA, further solidifying its status as a major winner of the night. This win highlights the strength of the film's narrative and its ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. The CODA adapted screenplay Oscar is a testament to the brilliant adaptation of the French film La Famille Bélier. Shifting gears to animation, Best Animated Feature was awarded to Disney and Pixar's Encanto. The film's vibrant music, stunning animation, and heartwarming story about family and self-acceptance captured the hearts of many. The Encanto Oscar win was widely anticipated, and it’s a testament to the film's cultural impact, especially with its catchy songs that became global sensations. We Don't Talk About Bruno, anyone? It’s a win that celebrates not just the magic of animation but also the powerful messages embedded within the storytelling. The vibrant characters and the magical realism of the film created an immersive experience that resonated with viewers of all ages. The Oscars 2022 screenplay and animated feature awards showcased the diverse range of storytelling and creativity in contemporary cinema.

The Rest of the Winners and Memorable Moments

There were plenty of other fantastic films and individuals recognized at the Oscars 2022. Best Original Score went to Hans Zimmer for Dune, a fitting win for a score that was as epic and immersive as the film itself. The Dune score Oscar is a testament to Zimmer's legendary talent in crafting atmospheric and unforgettable musical landscapes. Best Original Song was awarded to "No Time to Die" from the James Bond film of the same name, performed by Billie Eilish and Finneas O'Connell. This was a powerful ballad that captured the essence of the Bond saga. The "No Time to Die" Oscar win marked a significant achievement for the sibling duo. In the documentary categories, Best Documentary Feature was won by Summer of Soul (...Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised), a powerful and vibrant look at the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival. The Summer of Soul documentary Oscar celebrated its historical significance and its incredible musical performances. Beyond the awards themselves, the ceremony had its share of memorable moments. The energetic hosting by Amy Schumer, Wanda Sykes, and Regina Hall kept the audience engaged, and the performances of the nominated songs were highlights of the night. And of course, the aforementioned incident involving Will Smith and Chris Rock will undoubtedly be a talking point for years to come, a surreal and unexpected moment that contrasted sharply with the celebratory nature of the evening. The Oscars 2022 highlights were truly a mix of artistic achievement, historic wins, and unforgettable, albeit sometimes shocking, moments. It was a night that celebrated the best of cinema, showcasing the power of storytelling to move, inspire, and entertain us all. The diversity of the winners and the stories told truly made this a landmark year for the Academy Awards, reflecting a broader shift in the industry towards inclusivity and recognizing a wider array of talent and perspectives. The Oscars 2022 recap shows a ceremony that was both a reflection of the past year in film and a glimpse into the future of filmmaking. What a night, guys!