By Arianna Smith
On an unforgettable evening in the Dolby Theatre, many talented people gathered for the 97th Academy Awards of cinematic excellence. Celebrities are invited to join each other on the red carpet for interviews and to show off their fashion before the event.
The Hollywood Reporter said that Timothée Chalamet strolled the red carpet dressed in yellow Givenchy and was ranked as the best-dressed male. Ariana Grande was dressed in Schiaparelli with De Beers jewels, complementing her recent supporting role of Glinda in Wicked. Grande was favored by many on the red carpet with a glowing face, followed by a performance with her co-star, Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba in Wicked).
Grande came out in a red gown singing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and then let Erivo take over with “Home” in a white gown with florals. They then joined each other to sing a duet from Wicked called “Defying Gravity.” They shared a captivating moment on stage and created a memorable Oscar performance for the audience in front of them and viewers at home. Erivo and Grande got a standing ovation before nominations began when they were nominated for Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress, respectively.
South Tampa resident Carolyn Guard said she hasn’t watched the Academy Awards in recent years.
“I haven’t watched the last few award shows, but I was excited to watch it when I learned that part of the Wicked cast would be performing,” said Guard.
Guard loves Wicked and thinks Erivo and Grande had an outstanding performance.
“It was a beautiful duet. I was truly stunned,” said Guard.
Guard didn’t watch the rest of the award show but was excited to see the Wicked stars.
The Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress went to Zoe Saldaña for her Spanish role in Emilia Pérez. Saldaña became the first Dominican American to win an Academy Award, giving an unforgettable speech. The first thing Saldaña did on stage was yell out for her mother before giving her speech.
“I am a proud child of immigrant parents. With dreams and dignity and hardworking hands, and I am the first American of Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award, and I know I will not be the last,” said Saldaña.
This speech brought tears to the eyes of her peers and others at home, showcasing the greatness immigrants can have in America. She recognized her culture and inspired others of Dominican descent to follow in her footsteps. She continues her speech in tears, thanking her family, friends, and people who have guided her.
Chelsea Almeida, a high school student, believes Saldaña’s speech was breathtaking.
“Watching Zoe Saldaña’s speech gave me the chills. I have not seen Emilia Pérez, but I have watched From Scratch. She’s such an incredible actress, and I’m so happy that she won the award,” said Almeida.
Almeida said From Scratch was powerful and that it touched her in more ways than one.
“I’m really looking forward to watching Emilia Pérez,” said Almeida.
Almeida, alongside many others, will be starting Emilia Pérez after Saldaña’s speech.
The Academy Awards highlighted cinematic masterpieces and honored many deceased actors and actresses. However, the Academy Awards failed to honor Michelle Trachtenberg, causing a heated debate.
Caitlin Racanelli, a University of Tampa alumna, hated to hear that Trachtenberg was not honored or remembered for her role on Gossip Girl.
“If her co-stars had the time to make an Instagram post, they should realize people are still grieving and that it was unacceptable not to include her. This is all very new, and it was just a bad look on the Oscars,” said Racanelli.
Racanelli said Trachtenberg’s role in Gossip Girl made the show what it is today.
The 97th Academy Awards show gave people mixed feelings. It showcased emotions and diversity and presented its cinematic excellence. Grande and Erivo played their roles on and off the screen, sharing the beauty of the song through friendship. Saldaña inspired many, especially those of immigrant families. The omission of a few celebrities sparked controversy, but overall, the night was a celebration of achievements, culture, and talent.
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Photo courtesy of Mid-day.