Chloé Zhao’s triumph with Nomadland, Anthony Hopkins’ unexpected best actor win, and Youn Yuh-jung’s heartfelt Oscar speech highlight an unusual ceremony.
The 93rd Academy Awards were anything but typical, unfolding in a unique, subdued format. There was no central host, and the usual Oscar staples like clip montages were absent. The ceremony also ended in an unexpected way, with the best actor award presented before the coveted best picture. This surprise led many to anticipate a posthumous win for Chadwick Boseman, but it was Anthony Hopkins who took home the award for his portrayal of a man with dementia in The Father—a victory that caused mixed reactions, especially with Boseman’s posthumous campaign in mind.
Despite the surprises, the night saw notable achievements. Chloé Zhao made history by winning both best director and best picture for her film Nomadland, solidifying her place as a trailblazer in the film industry.
Another touching moment came when Youn Yuh-jung claimed the Oscar for best supporting actress for her performance as a loving grandmother in Minari. In a ceremony marked by many poignant moments, her acceptance speech added a humorous and endearing tone to the night, as she humorously triumphed over Glenn Close, who once again lost in a category where she was a favorite.
Though the night was unconventional, it celebrated significant achievements and memorable moments, with Nomadland, Zhao, and Youn Yuh-jung standing out in a night of surprises and emotional speeches.
