Christopher Nolan’s epic biographical drama “Oppenheimer” emerged as the big winner at the 96th Academy Awards, dominating the evening with an impressive haul of seven awards across various categories. The film, which received widespread acclaim for its portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the inventor of the atomic bomb, secured victories in major categories, including best picture and best director for Nolan himself.
Lead actor Cillian Murphy and supporting actor Robert Downey Jr. were also honored with awards in their respective categories, adding to the film’s triumph. “Oppenheimer” showcased its prowess in technical aspects as well, clinching awards for editing, cinematography, and score, solidifying its status as a cinematic masterpiece.
One of the night’s unexpected moments came with Emma Stone’s win for best actress for her role in “Poor Things,” a dark comedy where she portrayed an adult woman with a child’s brain. Stone’s victory over Lily Gladstone, the first Native American contender in the best actress category for her role in “Killers of the Flower Moon,” sparked discussion and debate among viewers.
While “Oppenheimer” stole the spotlight with its remarkable achievements, other notable films also received recognition. “Poor Things” secured wins in categories such as hair and makeup, production design, and costume design, showcasing its excellence in creative craftsmanship. Cillian Murphy’s win for best actor further solidified his remarkable performance in “Oppenheimer,” following his success at previous award ceremonies.
Halifax filmmaker Ben Proudfoot emerged as a notable Canadian winner, receiving the award for best documentary short film for “The Last Repair Shop.” Director Wes Anderson also celebrated his first Oscar win for best live-action short film with “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar.”
The Oscars ceremony, hosted by comedian and late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel, provided moments of both humor and poignancy, capturing the essence of Hollywood’s biggest night. As the stars gathered at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, the evening celebrated the best of filmmaking while honoring outstanding talent across various categories.
With “Oppenheimer” leading the pack with seven wins, including best picture and best director, the 2024 Oscars showcased the diversity and excellence of the film industry. From captivating performances to technical brilliance, the night underscored the power of storytelling and the enduring impact of cinema on global audiences.