Unpredictable Moments and Victories Shine at the 2023 Oscars

Ikenna ChurchillMarch 11, 20241 Mins read751

The 2023 Academy Awards, like many previous ceremonies, ran longer than anticipated, yet it was filled with enough surprises to captivate viewers till the end.

Host Jimmy Kimmel injected humour with witty jabs at filmmakers, but stars remained unfazed as they delivered heartfelt acceptance speeches. Da’Vine Joy Randolph started the night with a win for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for “The Holdovers.” At the same time, “The Boy and the Heron” secured Best Animated Feature, albeit without Hayao Miyazaki present to accept.

Justine Triet’s “Anatomy of a Fall” clinched Best Original Screenplay, and Cord Jefferson’s “American Fiction” took home Best Adapted Screenplay. John Cena’s unexpected nudity during the announcement of “Poor Things” win for Best Costume Design added a memorable moment.

Jonathan Glazer, the writer/director of “The Zone of Interest,” delivered a poignant speech on the film’s relevance to the conflict in Gaza upon winning Best International Feature. Robert Downey Jr.’s win for Best Supporting Actor in “Oppenheimer” surprised some. At the same time, “Godzilla Minus One” stood out with its creative team, bringing Godzilla action figures on stage to accept the award for Best Visual Effects.

“Poor Things” emerged as a big winner, securing awards for Makeup and Hairstyling, Production Design, and Best Actress, marking Emma Stone’s second Oscar. As expected, “Oppenheimer” dominated the night, clinching Oscars in Cinematography, Original Score, Best Actor, and Best Director categories.

Complete list of winners here.