Last year’s “Oscars So White” controversy was diffused this year with plenty of diversity on the board, but in the end we witnessed one of the biggest screwups in Hollywood history. Veteran actor Warren Beatty and his “Bonnie and Clyde” co-star Faye Dunaway took the stage to announce the biggie — the best picture.
Inside the envelope was critical darling “La La Land.” The producers rushed in a panic to inform everyone that they handed out the wrong envelope. The winner was “Moonlight” and, with both teams on the stage, it was complete chaos.
Other than that, Malibu was well represented with Mel Gibson, Charlize Theron, Lady Gaga and Halle Berry strutting their stuff down the red carpet. Malibu’s Mel was lauded for his comeback after his Malibu wild DUI arrest a few years back. He has been keeping a low profile until now, with the release of acclaimed “Hacksaw Ridge,” which gained six Oscar nods including best director for Mel and best picture.
Although “Hacksaw Ridge” failed to get any of the grand prizes, it scored gold for film editing and sound editing.
Although “La La Land” and “Moonlight” were always considered front-runners — poised to beat other films in the best picture category such as “Arrival,” “Fences,” “Hell or High Water,” ‘Hidden Figures,” “Lion” and “Manchester by the Sea” — several other top films gained recognition as well. Lead actor went to Ben’s bro Casey Affleck, who beat out Denzel Washington and Ryan Gosling for lead actor in his emotional performance in “Manchester by the Sea.”
Natalie Portman pulled off a spectacular performance in “Jackie,” as did Isabell Huppert in “Elle” but, in the end, Emma Stone nailed it for “La La Land.” Supporting actor Mahershala Ali took home the gold for “Moonlight,” as did Viola Davis for an intense performance in “Fences.”
Malibu’s Halle Berry was looking lovely on the red carpet, sporting a designer gown and natural hair. There was plenty of fun and surprises as well. No popcorn, but bags of candy fell down from the sky. The hungry audience seemed to take it all in stride and you could see cutaways of Mel Gibson (Twizzlers) and Meryl Streep (Junior Mints).
Justin Timberlake got everyone on their feet with one of his most popular songs, “Can’t Stop the Feeling.”
Dancing broke out throughout the hall and a standing ovation. When host Jimmy Kimmel took the stage he quipped, “Oh great. I get a sitting ovation.”
Either way, it was a show like no other. So, whether you watch for the films or the fashion, the Oscars night is always an evening to remember.