The Oscars sparked conversation amongst Archer students, whose emotions surrounding the night ranged from disappointment to excitement.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences presented the 97th Oscars ceremony March 2 in the Dolby Theatre. This award show recognized various achievements in the film industry, including best picture, best actor/actress and best animated short film. The top nominees of the Oscars included “Emilia Pérez” with a total of 13 nominations, “The Brutalist” and “Wicked.”
Freshman Maggie Collins said each speech was incredible, but most actors spoke for longer than necessary. One speech stuck out to Collins due to its emotion, conciseness and passion. Zoe Saldana was nominated for best supporting actress for the film, “Emilia Pérez.” Saldana gave a speech thanking her family and friends for their support during her journey as an actress. She also acknowledged the role her Dominican heritage played in her role as an actress.
“[Zoe Saldana’s] speech was, oh my God, really good,” Collins said. “It was just really touching.”
Khepri Mabson (’31) said one of the most meaningful moments from the night was when the Los Angeles firefighters were brought on stage as a tribute for their bravery and help during the LA wildfires. She said it was extremely wholesome, and she was grateful they were acknowledged.
“When the firefighters came out … they got to say some jokes about actors,” Mabson said. “[It] was amazing they got celebrated for what they did.”
Collins said she was impressed with Raye’s talent and dedication during her performance of Adele’s “Skyfall.” She said Raye’s ability to reach such high notes was impressive and one of her favorite moments from the Oscars. Collins enjoyed viewing outfits worn by celebrities at the event, and Timothee Chalamet‘s caught her eye. She was surprised by his unique fashion choice.
“Timothee Chalamet kind of looked like a banana,” Maggie said. “I really like that [yellow], but I don’t know if he wore it that well.”
Many other styles appeared on the red carpet, from sparkly dresses to velvet gowns to cheetah print to statement jewelry. While freshman Sarah Rosenson thought some outfits were underwhelming, she loved a few of them.
“I thought that Ariana’s outfit, when she performed, the red dress, was really pretty,” Rosenson said. “I also liked Olivia Rodrigo’s outfit, and the Vanessa Hudgens and Olivia Rodrigo picture was iconic.”
Although there was a variety of awards and winners, Collins said she would have loved to see certain movies win more, especially “Wicked.” She felt that it did not win nearly enough awards.
“I feel like Wicked should have won for a little more,” Collins said. “It was just such a fantastic movie.”
Mabson agreed “Wicked” should have won more awards due to its popularity, amazing songs and incredible actors. Despite this, Mabson said the Oscars were an entertaining watch. She enjoyed watching Ariana Grande’s performance, seeing who won and scouting for interesting outfits.
“Most of the shows that won, I didn’t watch because they were not for kids,” Mabson said. “I was kind of sad Wicked didn’t win [more]. But, I was happy that Ariana [Grande] went on stage.”
