Oscars 2022: The Highs, Lows, And Must-See Moments

The 2022 Academy Awards, guys, were definitely a night to remember! From stunning red carpet looks to emotional acceptance speeches and, of course, that unforgettable moment, the Oscars delivered a mix of glamour, surprise, and controversy. Let's dive into the highlights, the not-so-great moments, and everything in between.

The Biggest Wins of the Night

Let's start with the winners! CODA taking home Best Picture was a massive moment. This heartwarming film, featuring a predominantly deaf cast, resonated with audiences and critics alike. It was a truly historic win, highlighting the importance of representation and inclusivity in Hollywood. Sian Heder also snagged Best Adapted Screenplay for CODA, solidifying the film's impact on the night. The film's success is a testament to the power of authentic storytelling and its ability to connect with viewers on a deeply emotional level. The Oscars 2022 celebrated diversity and inclusivity, proving that stories from marginalized communities can captivate audiences and win prestigious awards. Troy Kotsur's win for Best Supporting Actor for his role in CODA was another landmark achievement. He became only the second deaf actor to win an Oscar, delivering a heartfelt and humorous speech that brought tears to everyone's eyes. Kotsur's performance was praised for its nuance, warmth, and genuine portrayal of a deaf father navigating complex family dynamics. His victory inspired aspiring actors and filmmakers from underrepresented backgrounds, demonstrating that talent knows no boundaries. CODA's triumph at the Oscars signals a shift towards recognizing and celebrating diverse voices in the film industry.

Moving on, Jessica Chastain finally won Best Actress for her incredible portrayal of Tammy Faye Bakker in The Eyes of Tammy Faye. This was a long-awaited win for Chastain, who has consistently delivered outstanding performances throughout her career. Her dedication to the role, including her physical transformation, was evident and deeply appreciated. Chastain used her acceptance speech to advocate for inclusivity and acceptance, echoing the themes of the film. She highlighted the importance of empathy and understanding in a world that often feels divided. Her win was not only a personal triumph but also a powerful statement about the need for compassion and acceptance. Dune swept up a bunch of technical awards, proving its visual and auditory masterpiece status. From Best Cinematography to Best Visual Effects, Dune showcased the incredible talent and artistry behind the scenes. The film's immersive world-building and stunning visuals transported audiences to another planet, making it a truly cinematic experience. Dune's success in the technical categories underscores the importance of recognizing the contributions of filmmakers who often work behind the camera. Their expertise and creativity are essential to bringing stories to life on the big screen. Hans Zimmer's win for Best Original Score for Dune was also a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional talent. Zimmer's score elevated the film's atmosphere and added depth to the narrative, creating an unforgettable auditory experience. His music resonated with audiences and critics alike, further cementing Dune's status as a cinematic triumph.

And let's not forget Will Smith winning Best Actor for King Richard. His portrayal of Richard Williams, the determined father of tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams, was powerful and moving. Smith captured the essence of Williams' unwavering belief in his daughters and his relentless pursuit of their dreams. His performance was both inspiring and heartwarming, resonating with audiences who admired Williams' dedication and resilience. Smith's win was a testament to his versatility as an actor and his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. King Richard tells a story of perseverance, family, and the pursuit of excellence, and Smith's portrayal of Richard Williams brought these themes to life in a captivating way. The film's success is a celebration of the Williams family's extraordinary achievements and their impact on the world of sports.

The Slap Heard Around the World

Okay, guys, we can't talk about the 2022 Oscars without addressing the moment. Will Smith walking on stage and slapping Chris Rock after a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith was, to put it mildly, shocking. The incident overshadowed much of the night and sparked intense debate and discussion online and in the media. Opinions were divided, with some condemning Smith's actions and others defending him for defending his wife. The Academy faced criticism for its handling of the situation, with some arguing that Smith should have been immediately removed from the ceremony. The incident raised questions about the boundaries of humor, the appropriateness of violence, and the responsibilities of celebrities as role models. It also highlighted the complexities of relationships and the challenges of navigating public scrutiny. The slap became a defining moment of the 2022 Oscars, sparking conversations that extended far beyond the entertainment industry.

The aftermath has been pretty intense, with Will Smith issuing a public apology and later resigning from the Academy. The Academy has since banned Smith from attending its events for 10 years. This unprecedented move reflects the severity of the incident and the Academy's commitment to upholding its standards of conduct. The ban has sparked further debate, with some arguing that it is too harsh and others believing that it is a necessary consequence for Smith's actions. The incident has had a lasting impact on Smith's career and reputation, raising questions about his future in Hollywood. It has also prompted a broader conversation about accountability and the importance of setting boundaries in the entertainment industry. The slap will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most controversial moments in Oscars history.

Red Carpet Hits and Misses

Let's move on to something a bit lighter: the fashion! The red carpet always brings out some amazing (and not-so-amazing) looks. Zendaya stunned in a Valentino skirt and crop top, proving once again that she's a fashion icon. Her effortlessly chic style and bold choices consistently make her a red carpet standout. Zendaya's ability to balance classic elegance with modern trends has made her a fashion inspiration for millions. Her red carpet appearances are always highly anticipated, and she never fails to impress with her impeccable taste and confidence. Timothée Chalamet went shirtless in a sequined blazer, making a bold and unexpected statement. His willingness to take risks and challenge traditional norms has made him a fashion trailblazer. Chalamet's unique sense of style and his ability to express himself through clothing have earned him praise from fashion critics and fans alike. His red carpet choices are always conversation starters, and he consistently pushes the boundaries of menswear.

However, some outfits missed the mark. While personal style is subjective, some choices just didn't quite land with the critics. The red carpet is a high-pressure environment, and not every outfit can be a winner. But even the misses provide fodder for discussion and contribute to the overall spectacle of the event. The red carpet is a platform for self-expression, and even the less successful looks can be seen as bold attempts to push boundaries and challenge conventions. Ultimately, the red carpet is a celebration of fashion and individuality, and it provides a glimpse into the personalities of the stars who grace it. The fashion at the Oscars is an integral part of the event, and it adds to the glamour and excitement of the night.

Memorable Moments and Acceptance Speeches

Beyond the big wins and the slap, there were plenty of other memorable moments. Ariana DeBose's win for Best Supporting Actress for West Side Story was a beautiful moment, and her speech was inspiring and heartfelt. She made history as the first openly queer woman of color to win an acting Oscar, and her victory was a significant milestone for representation in Hollywood. DeBose used her speech to encourage aspiring artists from marginalized communities to pursue their dreams, reminding them that their stories matter and that their voices deserve to be heard. Her win was a celebration of diversity and inclusion, and it inspired countless individuals to embrace their identities and pursue their passions.

Billie Eilish and Finneas O'Connell winning Best Original Song for "No Time to Die" was also a sweet moment, showcasing their incredible talent and sibling bond. Their collaboration on the James Bond theme song was a critical and commercial success, and their win at the Oscars was a well-deserved recognition of their artistry. Eilish and O'Connell's music resonates with audiences of all ages, and their ability to create emotionally resonant songs has made them two of the most influential musicians of their generation. Their win was a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the power of collaboration. The Oscars provide a platform for celebrating musical talent, and Eilish and O'Connell's victory was a highlight of the night.

Overall, the Oscars 2022 were a rollercoaster of emotions. From the historic wins to the shocking incident, it was a night that will be talked about for years to come. While the controversy overshadowed some of the achievements, it's important to remember the talented artists who were recognized for their incredible work. The Oscars are a celebration of cinema, and the 2022 ceremony showcased the power of storytelling and the impact of film on society. The event highlighted the importance of diversity, inclusion, and representation in Hollywood, and it inspired audiences to appreciate the artistry and creativity that goes into making movies. Despite the controversies, the Oscars remain a significant cultural event, and they provide a platform for recognizing and celebrating the best in the film industry.