Oscars 2024: The Biggest Wins, Snubs, And Surprises!

The 2024 Oscars ceremony has come and gone, leaving behind a trail of shimmering gowns, emotional acceptance speeches, and, of course, plenty to talk about! Guys, whether you're a die-hard cinephile or just love tuning in for the glitz and glamour, the Oscars always deliver. This year was no exception, with some expected victories, some surprising upsets, and moments that will be talked about for years to come. Let's dive into the highlights, shall we?

The Big Winners: Who Took Home the Gold?

Let's start with the main event: the awards themselves! Oppenheimer dominated the night, as many had predicted, securing the Best Picture award, along with Best Director for Christopher Nolan (finally!), Best Actor for Cillian Murphy, and Best Supporting Actor for Robert Downey Jr. It was a well-deserved sweep for a film that sparked so much conversation and debate. The Academy clearly recognized the film's ambition, its stellar performances, and Nolan's masterful direction. It's a historical drama that resonates with contemporary anxieties, making it a powerful and relevant piece of cinema. This year, the Academy showed that it's not afraid to embrace complex, challenging films that push boundaries and provoke thought. Oppenheimer's success at the Oscars is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the importance of engaging with difficult subjects.

But Oppenheimer wasn't the only film celebrating. Emma Stone snagged Best Actress for her incredible performance in Poor Things, a visually stunning and wildly imaginative film. Her portrayal of Bella Baxter was nothing short of transformative, and she truly deserved the recognition. Poor Things also took home awards for Best Production Design, Best Costume Design, and Best Makeup and Hairstyling, highlighting its remarkable artistry and attention to detail. The film's unique aesthetic and bold storytelling clearly resonated with the Academy, solidifying its place as a standout of the year. This is a win for originality and creativity in filmmaking, proving that audiences are hungry for fresh and innovative stories.

Da'Vine Joy Randolph won Best Supporting Actress for her heartwarming role in The Holdovers. Her performance was both funny and deeply moving, and she delivered one of the most memorable acceptance speeches of the night. It was a beautiful moment to witness her joy and gratitude. The Holdovers is a small film with a big heart, and Randolph's win is a testament to the power of character-driven stories. It's a reminder that sometimes the most impactful performances come from unexpected places. Her win felt like a genuine celebration of talent and hard work, and it was truly inspiring to see her shine on the biggest stage in Hollywood.

The Snubs: Who Got Overlooked?

Of course, the Oscars are never without their share of snubs. While some films and performances were celebrated, others were noticeably overlooked. One of the biggest surprises of the night was the lack of recognition for Killers of the Flower Moon. Despite receiving numerous nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director for Martin Scorsese, the film went home empty-handed. While Oppenheimer was a formidable competitor, many felt that Killers of the Flower Moon deserved at least one award for its powerful storytelling and historical significance. Lily Gladstone's performance was particularly deserving of recognition, but ultimately, she lost out to Emma Stone. It's a shame that such an important and thought-provoking film was largely ignored by the Academy.

Another film that some felt was snubbed was Barbie. While it did win Best Original Song for "What Was I Made For?", many believed that Greta Gerwig deserved recognition for Best Director and Margot Robbie for Best Actress. Barbie was a cultural phenomenon, sparking conversations about feminism, identity, and societal expectations. It was a commercial and critical success, and its absence in some of the major categories was definitely felt. Perhaps the Academy wasn't ready to fully embrace a film that was both entertaining and deeply meaningful. Regardless, Barbie's impact on pop culture is undeniable, and its legacy will continue to be felt for years to come.

Let's be real, guys, not everyone can win. But sometimes it feels like deserving performances and groundbreaking films get lost in the shuffle. It's a reminder that the Oscars are just one perspective, and that ultimately, the value of a film lies in its ability to connect with audiences and leave a lasting impact.

The Surprises: Unexpected Moments and Upset Victories

Beyond the wins and snubs, there were also a few surprises that kept us on the edge of our seats. One of the most unexpected moments was the win for 20 Days in Mariupol for Best Documentary Feature. This powerful and harrowing film offers a firsthand account of the siege of Mariupol, Ukraine, and its victory was a poignant reminder of the ongoing conflict. It was a moment of solidarity and recognition for the filmmakers who risked their lives to document the truth. The film's victory is a testament to the importance of documentary filmmaking and its ability to shed light on critical global issues.

Another surprise was the fact that Anatomy of a Fall won Best Original Screenplay. While the film was critically acclaimed, it wasn't necessarily considered a frontrunner in this category. However, its sharp writing and complex characters clearly resonated with the Academy. It's a win for independent cinema and for films that dare to explore difficult and nuanced themes. The film's success is a reminder that originality and intelligence can still triumph in a world of blockbusters and sequels.

And who can forget John Cena's hilarious (and slightly awkward) presentation of the Best Costume Design award? It was definitely a memorable moment that added some levity to the evening. The Oscars are always a mix of serious recognition and lighthearted entertainment, and Cena's antics perfectly embodied that spirit.

The Fashion: Who Wore It Best?

Of course, no Oscars recap would be complete without a discussion of the fashion! The red carpet was ablaze with stunning gowns, bold suits, and dazzling jewelry. Some of the standout looks of the night included Emma Stone's mint green Louis Vuitton gown, Zendaya's elegant pink Armani Privé dress, and Florence Pugh's sculptural silver Del Core creation. Cillian Murphy looked dapper in his classic black tuxedo, while Robert Downey Jr. opted for a more modern and stylish look. The fashion at the Oscars is always a major talking point, and this year did not disappoint. It's a chance for celebrities to express their personal style and make a statement, and it's always fun to see what trends emerge.

However, fashion is subjective, and not everyone agreed on the best-dressed of the night. Some felt that certain looks were too daring or unconventional, while others praised the risk-takers. Ultimately, the Oscars red carpet is a celebration of creativity and individuality, and it's always interesting to see the different interpretations of glamour and style.

Final Thoughts: Another Oscars in the Books!

So there you have it, guys! The 2024 Oscars were a night of celebration, surprises, and unforgettable moments. From Oppenheimer's big win to the unexpected snubs and the stunning fashion, there was something for everyone to talk about. Whether you agree with the Academy's choices or not, the Oscars are a testament to the power of cinema and its ability to captivate and inspire audiences around the world. And let's be honest, it's just a fun excuse to get together with friends, eat some snacks, and ogle at celebrities in fancy clothes!

Until next year, happy movie watching!