The road to the 97th Academy Awards has been a rollercoaster ride, filled with unexpected twists and turns that have kept Hollywood on its toes. What began as a promising awards season for the seriocomic musical “Emilia Pérez,” centered around transgender identity, took a sharp turn when controversial tweets from the film’s lead actress emerged, casting a shadow over its Oscar prospects. This stumble opened the door for a trio of acclaimed titles – “Anora,” “The Brutalist,” and “Conclave” – to emerge as front-runners for the prestigious Best Picture award, leaving the ultimate victor anyone’s guess.
The Oscars Show Guide
For those eagerly anticipating the grand event, here’s a comprehensive guide to the much-awaited Oscars ceremony. The telecast is scheduled to be broadcast live on ABC starting at 7 p.m. ET, with a groundbreaking addition this year – real-time streaming on Hulu. The red carpet glamour is set to kick off around 3:30 p.m. ET, coinciding with the start of on-air coverage, as stars make their grand entrances in their finest attire.
Followers can catch live updates on NBCNews.com starting at noon ET, keeping abreast of all the latest developments leading up to the star-studded night.
Hosted by Conan O’Brien
Stepping into the spotlight as the host for this year’s Oscars is none other than the seasoned entertainer Conan O’Brien. While this marks his first stint as the emcee of the prestigious ceremony, O’Brien is no stranger to the world of awards, having previously helmed the Emmy Awards in 2002 and 2006, as well as the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in 1995 and 2013.
In an interview with The New York Times, O’Brien expressed his enthusiasm for celebrating the diverse landscape of cinema, emphasizing the significance of honoring impactful storytelling from various perspectives. “I still think the Oscars has meaning,” O’Brien shared, highlighting the profound resonance that quality cinema holds in the current cultural landscape. His approach to the hosting gig reflects a deep appreciation for the artistry and craft that define the film industry.
Predicting the Best Picture
The race for the coveted title of Best Picture took an unexpected turn following the controversy surrounding “Emilia Pérez” star Karla Sofía Gascón. This upheaval has propelled the madcap romantic dramedy “Anora,” the postwar immigration epic “The Brutalist,” and the gripping papal thriller “Conclave” into the limelight, each garnering critical acclaim and accolades on the pre-Oscars awards circuit.
While “Anora” seems to have a slight edge in the days leading up to the ceremony, other contenders such as “The Brutalist,” “Conclave,” “A Complete Unknown,” and “Wicked” present formidable competition. The anticipation surrounding the eventual Best Picture winner is palpable, with fans and experts eagerly awaiting the envelope reveal on Hollywood’s biggest night.
Amidst the buzz surrounding the Best Picture category, the acting front-runners have also captured attention, with notable contenders like Demi Moore, Mikey Madison, Fernanda Torres, Adrien Brody, Timothée Chalamet, Kieran Culkin, and Zoe Saldaña vying for top honors in their respective categories.
Stay tuned for an unforgettable evening of glamour, celebration, and recognition as the 97th Oscars ceremony unfolds, showcasing the best of the film industry’s talent and creativity. The anticipation is high, the stakes are higher, and the stage is set for a night to remember.
