In the illustrious realm of cinema, no event holds quite as much prestige and anticipation as the Academy Awards. As the dust settles on the glitzy affair that was the 2024 Oscars, we embark on a journey through the highs and lows of Hollywood's most glamorous night, dissecting the winners and losers, celebrating the triumphs, and examining the snubs and surprises that defined the evening.
The History Of The Academy Awards (The Oscars)
Since its inauguration in 1929, the Academy Awards has transcended mere ceremony to become an institution emblematic of cinematic brilliance and cultural significance. Birthed amidst the dawn of the "talkies" era, this prestigious event has charted an illustrious journey, mirroring the evolution of the film industry itself.
In the wake of the silent film era's denouement, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences was conceived by visionary minds seeking to celebrate and elevate the burgeoning art form of cinema. On May 16, 1929, the first Academy Awards ceremony unfolded at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, a modest yet pivotal affair attended by industry luminaries.
Originally a quaint gathering, the Oscars swiftly burgeoned into a global spectacle, captivating audiences worldwide with its glamour and allure. Over the decades, it has weathered storms and celebrated triumphs, bearing witness to the transformative power of cinema to reflect, provoke, and inspire.
Through wars, economic upheavals, and cultural revolutions, the Academy Awards persevered, always adapting to the zeitgeist while upholding its commitment to artistic excellence.
The Big Winners of the 2024 Academy Awards
As the envelopes were opened and the winners announced, certain films and performances emerged as the darlings of the evening. From Best Picture to Best Actor and Actress, the top-level categories showcased the best of what cinema had to offer in 2024. With heartfelt speeches, dazzling performances, and memorable moments, these winners left an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape.
Let’s take a closer look:
Best Picture - "Oppenheimer"
At the pinnacle of the evening stood "Oppenheimer," a cinematic tour de force that enraptured audiences and critics alike. Directed by the visionary Christopher Nolan, this sprawling epic delved into the complex psyche of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the enigmatic figure behind the atomic bomb. With its masterful storytelling and poignant reflection on the human condition, "Oppenheimer" ascended to the zenith of cinematic achievement.
Best Director - Christopher Nolan ("Oppenheimer")
In a testament to his unparalleled vision and directorial prowess, Christopher Nolan claimed the coveted title of Best Director for his mesmerizing work on "Oppenheimer." With his signature style and narrative ingenuity, Nolan transported audiences into the heart of history, crafting a cinematic experience that resonated long after the credits rolled.
Best Actor - Cillian Murphy ("Oppenheimer")
Stepping into the shoes of J. Robert Oppenheimer with remarkable depth and nuance, Cillian Murphy captivated viewers with his portrayal of the conflicted physicist. Murphy's mesmerizing performance captured the inner turmoil and moral dilemmas of Oppenheimer, earning him the esteemed accolade of Best Actor.
Best Actress - Emma Stone ("Poor Things")
In a role that showcased her versatility and talent, Emma Stone captivated audiences with her portrayal of Bella Baxter in "Poor Things." Stone's poignant performance breathed life into the quirky and resilient protagonist, earning her the admiration of audiences and the acclaim of critics alike.
Best Supporting Actor - Robert Downey Jr. ("Oppenheimer")
Robert Downey Jr. delivered a standout performance in "Oppenheimer," imbuing the role of General Leslie Groves with gravitas and charisma. As the driving force behind the Manhattan Project, Downey Jr.'s portrayal added depth and complexity to the film's ensemble cast, earning him the accolade of Best Supporting Actor.
Best Supporting Actress - Da'Vine Joy Randolph ("The Holdovers")
Da'Vine Joy Randolph stole hearts and commanded attention with her compelling performance in "The Holdovers." As a beacon of strength and resilience amidst adversity, Randolph's portrayal resonated deeply with audiences, earning her the well-deserved honour of Best Supporting Actress.
Best Original Screenplay - "Anatomy of a Fall" (Justine Triet, Arthur Harare) Justine Triet and Arthur Harare's "Anatomy of a Fall" captivated audiences with its gripping narrative and insightful exploration of human relationships. With its deftly crafted screenplay, the film offered a poignant reflection on love, loss, and redemption, securing its place as a standout in the realm of original storytelling.
Best Adapted Screenplay - "American Fiction" (Cord Jefferson; based on the novel "Erasure" by Percival Everett)
Adapting Percival Everett's acclaimed novel "Erasure" for the screen, Cord Jefferson crafted a screenplay that resonated with audiences on a profound level. "American Fiction" navigated the complexities of race, identity, and artistic integrity with intelligence and poignancy, cementing its status as a triumph of adaptation.
As the night drew to a close, these remarkable films and performances stood as a testament to the enduring power of cinema to entertain, enlighten, and inspire. With their collective brilliance, they illuminated the path forward for the art form, leaving an indelible imprint on the hearts and minds of audiences around the globe.
The Losers of the 2024 Academy Awards
But for every winner, there's a contender left empty-handed, relegated to the ranks of the Oscars' most notable runners-up. From overlooked performances to controversial omissions, the 2024 ceremony was not without its share of surprises and disappointments. As we reflect on the night's events, we examine the surprises that sparked debate and discussion within the industry.
- "Maestro" - Despite Bradley Cooper's mesmerising portrayal of Leonard Bernstein, the legendary music conductor, the acclaimed film "Maestro" found itself without the coveted Best Film award. Cooper's nuanced performance (it’s been said he trained for a number of years as an actual conductor) captured the essence of the legendary composer, yet the film fell short of clinching the top honour, leaving audiences and critics alike surprised by its omission.
- "Killers of the Flower Moon" - Lily Gladstone's haunting portrayal of Mollie Burkhart in "Killers of the Flower Moon" captivated audiences with its emotional depth and raw authenticity. However, despite Gladstone's captivating performance, the film failed to secure the Best Actress award, marking a notable snub amidst the evening's celebrations.
- Ryan Gosling as Ken in "Barbie" - Ryan Gosling's charismatic portrayal of the iconic toy character Ken in "Barbie" added a layer of charm and humour to the film, yet his performance fell short of earning the title of Best Supporting Actor. While Gosling's portrayal garnered acclaim from audiences, it ultimately missed out on recognition from the Academy.
Despite these omissions, the films and performances highlighted above remain testaments to the talent and creativity present in the industry. While they may not have received the golden statuette, their impact on cinema and their ability to captivate audiences cannot be understated. As such, they stand as reminders that excellence in filmmaking extends beyond accolades, resonating deeply with audiences for years to come.
Looking Forward To Academy Awards 2025
As the curtain falls on the 2024 Academy Awards, we look ahead to the future, anticipating the cinematic gems and rising stars that will grace the stage in 2025. With early favourites emerging and speculation running rampant, the stage is set for another unforgettable Oscars ceremony. But until then, we bid farewell to the winners and losers of 2024, celebrating their achievements and eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Hollywood's storied history.
What’s been your favourite cinematic event this year? Tell us about it – join the conversation
