As the sun sets on Hollywood, the anticipation for the 95th Academy Awards is at an all-time high. The red carpet is out, the paparazzi are ready, and the stars are polishing their acceptance speeches. This is the time when the world is watching as the most prestigious film awards show is about to begin. So, sit back, grab some popcorn, and get ready to witness history in the making. As the stars take to the stage to celebrate their craft, we are reminded of the power of cinema to inspire, to challenge, and to change the world. Its the night of the Oscars!
All eyes on the Oscars
The Oscars have always been the epitome of glamor and grandeur. This is where the “best of the best” in the world of cinema come together to celebrate their craft. It’s a night when the entire world pays attention to the glitz and glam of Hollywood, as the biggest names in the industry gather to celebrate the art of filmmaking.
Oscars and Politics
However, the Oscars have been associated with various controversies throughout their history. The Oscars have faced criticism for their lack of diversity, both in terms of the nominees and the winners.
Sacheen Littlefeather’s Speech, accepting Marlon Brando’s Award
Marlon Brando famously sent Native American activist Sacheen Littlefeather to accept his Oscar for Best Actor. He received it for his performance in “The Godfather” at the 45th Academy Awards in 1973. Brando was a vocal supporter of Native American rights. He declined the award in protest of Hollywood’s treatment of Native Americans and the U.S. government’s policies toward them. The incident remains a memorable moment in Oscar history as well as a reflection of the cultural and political tensions of the time.
Michael Moore Speaks Against Gun Violence
Michael Moore’s acceptance speech at the 75th Academy Awards in 2003 was highly controversial and political. Moore won the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature for his film “Bowling for Columbine.” It explores issues of gun violence in America. The incident highlighted the ways in which the Oscars, like many other cultural events, can become politicized while also reflecting the larger social and political issues of the time.
#OscarsSoWhite
In recent years, there is a push for greater representation of women and people of color in the film industry. The Oscars are undoubtedly a barometer of progress in this area. In 2015 and 2016, all 20 of the acting nominees were white. Thisled to the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite trending on social media. It consequently sparked a larger conversation about lack of diversity in Hollywood as well as the need for greater representation in all aspects of the industry.
Abortion Rights
John Irving, the author of the novel “The Cider House Rules,” also wrote the screenplay for its film adaptation. He won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay in 2000. In his acceptance speech, Irving acknowledged the threat to the right to choose. He thanked organizations such as Planned Parenthood and the National Abortion Rights League for their advocacy for reproductive rights. Irving also thanked his studio for having the courage to make the film, as abortion was and still is a controversial and politically charged issue.
Irving’s recognition of the importance of reproductive rights and the threat to the right to choose is prescient, as the issue continues to be a contentious political and social issue in many countries, including the United States.This year Oscars came in the midst of resurgence of the anti-abortion movement triggered by the The US Supreme Court’s decision in June 2022 to overturn Roe v. Wade
The Slap!
Of course no one can forget Will Smith slapping Chris Rock that night even though they might forget who took home the Oscar in 2022.
Overall, the Oscars have been the subject of many controversies throughout their history. They still continue to be a lightning rod for debates about representation, diversity, and cultural values.
Oscars 2023 Nominees
This year’s nominees are no exception, as they take us on a journey through time, space, and emotions. We see stories of war and peace, love and loss, triumph and tragedy, and everything in between. From the multiverse to the islands of Ireland, from the halls of the Berlin Philharmonic to the depths of Pandora, the nominees have taken us on a roller coaster of emotions.
However, as much as the Oscars are a celebration of art, they are also a reflection of the current political climate. Over this century the Oscars have gained a reputation of being political. They are not just about the movies but also about the politics that shape our world. This year, as the world faces multiple challenges, the nominees have also become a reflection of the issues we are facing today. As the world watches with bated breath, it remains to be seen who will take home the coveted golden statue.
This year, six nominees are politically tainted. “All Quiet on the Western Front” is the most anti-war movie of the year, premiering in the same year as the Russian attack on Ukraine. In 2022, the Oscars denounced the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and this year Tomorrow..events predict the Oscars will go to “All Quiet on the Western Front”! They will bag most of the nominations as it aligns with the Oscars’ stance on the conflict.
Welcome to the Oscars!
