Hollywood's whirlwind awards season commenced with a powerful plea for artistic integrity, as Leonardo DiCaprio emphasised the critical distinction between cinema and mere 'content'. The acclaimed actor delivered his message via video at the 37th annual International Film Awards in Palm Springs, California, on Friday night.
A Rallying Cry for Theatrical Experience
Accepting an award for his film, DiCaprio argued that the communal experience of watching films in a theatre remains paramount. "Movies are still meant to be experienced, together, in a theatre," he stated. "Right now, that belief matters more than ever. Original films are harder to make and harder to protect. But movies still matter, not content, but cinema."
Variety reported that DiCaprio was unable to attend in person due to travel disruptions caused by political conflict in Venezuela, which cancelled flights from the Caribbean where he was holidaying. His co-stars, Chase Infiniti and Teyana Taylor, accepted the physical award on his behalf.
Stars Unite in Celebration of Original Storytelling
The glamorous evening served as a unifying platform for Hollywood's finest, with heartfelt speeches echoing DiCaprio's sentiments. Michael B. Jordan, receiving the Icon Award, urged colleagues to tell original stories that build unity, hoping audiences could "step back into the sun together" after the credits roll.
Meanwhile, Guillermo del Toro, collecting the Visionary Award with his 'Frankenstein' cast, reflected on the timeless relevance of Mary Shelley's novel. "We never learn," he mused, "and sometimes the only way to talk about humanity is through monsters."
Emotional Highlights and Full-Circle Moments
The night was rich with poignant tributes and light-hearted humour. Ethan Hawke, honoured with the Career Achievement Award, credited late friend River Phoenix and other collaborators for shaping him. Amanda Seyfried, winning the Desert Palm Achievement Award, noted the 'weird' full-circle moment of receiving the same award title as her inspiration, Leonardo DiCaprio.
Adam Sandler brought laughter with a short stand-up routine upon receiving the Chairman's Award, while Rose Byrne poked fun at getting a 'Breakthrough' award in her 40s. The ceremony concluded with Kate Hudson accepting the Icon Award, Actress, for 'Song Sung Blue'.
The Palm Springs festival traditionally kicks off the awards season, which continues immediately with the 31st annual Critics’ Choice Awards and the 83rd Golden Globes the following Sunday.
