Academy Awards: Much ado about nothing

The Oscars, which were held on Sunday, March 27, pit those with the most nominations against a diverse field of competitors, ranging from the small indie movie “CODA”, which just won a plethora of awards, to the popular doomsday satire “Don’t Look Up.”

The nominees for the 94th Academy Awards were revealed on February 8, 2021 by actresses Tracee Ellis Ross and Leslie Jordan. “Dune,” a sci-fi film that takes place on numerous imaginary planets, received ten nominations. “The Power of the Dog,” a mysterious cowboy film, led the race with a total of 12 nominations. They, like most of the other nominees, have remarkable cinematic skills, from acting to music to camera work.

In terms of actor awards, Jessica Chastain won best actress for her performance as Tammy Faye in “The Eyes of Tammy Faye.” Ariana DeBose won best supporting actress for her role in “West Side Story,” making her the first openly LGBT woman of color to win an Oscar for acting. The now slightly controversial Will Smith, who played Richard Williams in the film “King Richard,” took home the award for best actor.

As many already know, Smith and Chris Rock had a quarrel on live television. When Rock took the stage to deliver the Oscar for best picture, he joked about Jada Smith’s buzzed head appearing in “G.I. Jane.” She had recently spoken out about her alopecia on social media and how she wants it to be more accepted in society. At first, Smith laughed at Rock’s joke, but after seeing his wife’s reaction, he resorted to violence. Smith got up from his seat and slapped Rock across the face. He proceeded to use some colorful language to drive the point home that he did not like how he spoke about her. Theories are circling that the altercation could have been staged, but swearing and assault on national television and at a large event like the Oscars do not seem like something to joke about. However, Rock was very professional toward the situation. He did not talk back to Smith or hit him back. He just continued doing his job.

Although “Cruella” won the award for best costume design, it was a toss-up for the best dressed of the night. When it comes to red carpet attire, there is no finer showcase than the Oscars. The event, which is inspired by eras of Hollywood beauty, gives performers the chance to dress up and showcase themselves in elevated outfits that emphasize their personality. The always fashionable “Euphoria” actress Zendaya looked stunning in a short blouse and glittering beaded skirt from Valentino Haute Couture. Zendaya’s “Dune’’ co-star Timothee Chalamet, opted to show some skin under his glittery black Louis Vuitton suit, going from half a shirt to no shirt at all. Many others had show-stopping looks, including Ariana DeBose who chose a pantsuit over a dress.

Yet some celebrities may have missed the mark when it came to their outfit choice. Kristen Stewart, a first-time Best Actress nominee, blew it when it came to her Oscars attire. The relaxed Chanel shorts, unbuttoned blouse, and blazer appeared to be more appropriate for the Teen Choice Awards than the Academy Awards. Chloe and Hailey Bailey also misread the event and showed up in dresses with less fabric than a bikini.