At the 98th Academy Awards, host Conan O'Brien warned viewers that the ceremony might get political, and it did not disappoint. Despite initial scepticism, the night proved unusually polemical, driven by films tackling social issues and increasing pressure on celebrities to speak out.
Javier Bardem, presenting the award for best international feature, declared: 'No to war, and free Palestine,' prompting applause at the Dolby Theatre. Paul Thomas Anderson's 'One Battle After Another,' which won six awards including best picture, focuses on a rebel group fighting an authoritarian regime that rounds up immigrants. Anderson dedicated his adapted screenplay award to his children, apologising for 'the housekeeping mess' left in the world and encouraging them to bring 'common sense and decency.'
Joachim Trier, accepting best international feature for Norway's 'Sentimental Value,' criticised short-sighted leaders, urging: 'Let's not vote for politicians that don't take [children's welfare] seriously.' Michael B Jordan, winning best actor for 'Sinners,' thanked Black trailblazers like Sidney Poitier and Denzel Washington. Maggie Kang, co-director of best animated feature 'KPop Demon Hunters,' tearfully celebrated representation for Koreans.
O'Brien balanced politics and humour, joking about Donald Trump naming institutions after himself. The most powerful moment came from Gloria Cazares, whose daughter Jackie was killed in a school shooting. Accepting best documentary short for 'All the Empty Rooms,' she said: 'Gun violence is now the number one cause of death in kids and teens.'
