The Oscars celebrated a night of cinematic excellence with Sean Baker's Anora making history by sweeping four Academy Awards for directing, editing, writing, and producing. The event, held amidst the backdrop of recent wildfires in Los Angeles, featured a variety of remarkable wins and powerful speeches. The ceremony opened with a montage of film clips featuring shots of the city, concluding with the slogan: "We love LA."
The best documentary award went to No Other Land, a poignant collaboration between Palestinian and Israeli filmmakers highlighting the ongoing conflict in their region. Directors Shirin Sohani and Hossein Molayemi accepted the prize just hours after landing in Los Angeles, having faced challenges obtaining a U.S. visa.
"We made this film, Palestinians and Israelis, because together, our voices are stronger."
- Yuval Abraham
I'm Still Here, a gripping tale based on the true story of a Brazilian woman investigating her congressman husband's disappearance, claimed the title of best international film. Meanwhile, Bafta winner Conclave took home the award for best adapted screenplay, marking its only win for the night.
Peter Straughan, the British screenwriter for The Brutalist, paid tribute to Robert Harris, the author of the novel on which the film is based.
"Thank you Robert Harris for your beautiful book, we're all standing on your shoulders."
- Peter Straughan
The Brutalist also secured two British wins: Lol Crawley received the award for best cinematography and Daniel Blumberg for best original score. Adrien Brody delivered an impassioned speech upon winning for his performance in A Real Pain, emphasizing the importance of confronting social issues.
"I'm here once again to represent the lingering traumas and repercussions of war, and systematic oppression, and antisemitism and racism."
- Adrien Brody
He further expressed hopes for a better future.
"And I pray for a healthier, happier and more inclusive world. And I believe if the past can teach us anything, it's a reminder to not let hate go unchecked."
- Adrien Brody
Sean Baker's Anora was undeniably the star of the evening. Baker became the first person to personally win four Academy Awards for a single film, surpassing even Walt Disney's record from 1953. He humbly thanked the Academy voters for recognizing his "truly independent film" and championed the power of cinema.
"Watching a film in a theatre with an audience is an experience."
- Sean Baker
He added:
"And at a time when the world can feel very divided, this is more important than ever, it's a communal experience you just don't get at home."
- Sean Baker
Baker also acknowledged his collaborators in heartfelt fashion.
"If you didn't cast Mikey Madison… there'd be no Anora."
- Sean Baker
Kieran Culkin humorously praised Baker's genius.
"Thank you for this movie, you're a genius. I'd never say that to your face, I'll never say it again, so soak it up."
- Kieran Culkin
Emilia Pérez earned accolades for El Mal, winning best original song for her performance in the film. The night was also marked by Peter Straughan's emotional tribute to Morgan Freeman.
"Like everyone who ever shared a scene with him, I learned he was a generous performer, and a man whose gifts elevated everyone's work."
- Morgan Freeman
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