Actors from all genres and decades came to the 98th Academy Awards, Hollywood’s biggest night of the year, to see who would take home an Oscar on Sunday night. Comedian Conan O’Brien hosted The Oscars for the second time and led the night through a celebration of the arts, film and the hard work that goes into creating the movies we love to see.
The historic night is also about preserving cinema and keeping it alive. Here are some highlights and winners of the night.
“Sinners” performance
Miles Caton’s rendition of “I Lied To You” from “Sinners” was one of the most anticipated performances of the night. Caton was joined by Raphael Saadiq, Brittany Howard and legendary blues musician Buddy Guy.
The performance proved that music is a universal language. By combining different styles such as street, Chinese opera and swing, the stage was alive and rich with culture. The act ended with a special appearance by Misty Copeland, the first Black woman to be a principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre.
In memoriam
The Oscars also took time to pay tribute to actors who’ve passed away over the past year. An especially touching tribute was given to Rob Reiner, who passed away in December. Actor and longtime friend of Reiner, Billy Crystal, talked about Reiner and his wife Michele’s importance in the film industry and as political activists. Some of the stars of Reiner’s films joined Crystal as they commemorated the talented filmmaker.
Best Supporting Actress
The first award of the night went to Amy Madigan for her unsettling performance as the terrifying witch-like Gladys Lilly from“Weapons,” a horror film that was hard to forget against some heavy hitters. Though she’s been an actress for almost 50 years, this was Madigan’s first Oscar win, 40 years after her nomination for “Twice in a Lifetime.”
Best Supporting Actor
Although not present at the award show, Sean Penn won for his unique role in “One Battle After Another.” The award was presented and accepted by last year’s winner, Kieran Culkin.
Best Actor
Michael B. Jordan’s win for Best Actor for “Sinners” was incredibly well deserved. Portraying two different characters is quite the feat, but Jordan made it look effortless. This is Jordan’s first nomination and win, which shows what a brilliant job he did in “Sinners.” Jordan’s emotional speech was one to remember, as he paid tribute to all the other Black winners that came before him and promised the audience that he would continue to be the best version of himself.
Best Actress
Frontrunner among critics, Jessie Buckley won her first Oscar for her tear-jerking portrayal as William Shakespeare’s wife, Agnes Shakespeare, in “Hamnet.” Buckley became the first Irish winner of the Best Actress category and began her chaotic, yet sweet speech by paying homage to her ancestry and family and closed by dedicating her award to the beautiful chaos of motherhood.
Best Director
Paul Thomas Anderson won Best Director for “One Battle After Another.” Additionally, he won Best Adapted Screenplay, which was his first Oscar win after receiving 14 nominations since 1998.
Best Picture
“One Battle After Another” wasn’t just a hit with audiences but also with the Academy. With 13 nominations, the film won six of the awards. Best Picture is one of the most anticipated awards of the night, but it was well worth the wait, as “One Battle After Another” had many moving parts that came together to make it a spectacle.
The Oscars are Hollywood’s biggest night and it certainly delivered this year. From O’Brien’s comedic bits to the emotional wins and performances, the 98th Academy Awards were a captivating ceremony.
