While the Academy seemed to be taking steps to make the Oscars telecast more appealing to viewers with a proposed Popular Film Oscar and removing some categories from the live broadcast, last night’s ceremony was proof positive that the Oscars will always—without fail—create memorable moments all its own. Those who tune in usuallydocare about the Oscars already, so there’s no “dumbing down” necessary to make the show more appealing. Butlast night’s telecastwas definitely not lacking for moments worth cheering for, worth tearing up for, and maybe even worth celebrating.
ABC has made some of the more memorable moments available to watch on YouTube, so here we’ve gone through and assembled the best Oscar moments from last night’s telecast.
Queen Performs Live
Queentook to the stage to open the show with a live performance as opposed to the traditional song-and-dance number, and boy the people in the auditoriumlovedit.
Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Maya Rudolph’s Opening
The decision to move forward without a host proved to be an inspiring one, and the Oscars producers were wise to selectTina Fey,Amy Poehler, andMaya Rudolphto introduce the first category and vamp a bit. They definitely did not overstay their welcome, and this is an example of how the Oscars might move forward in years to come: a quick, funny intro instead of a full monologue, then right into the awards.
Regina King Wins Best Supporting Actress
Regina Kingearned a standing ovation for her Best Supporting Actress win, and she delivered a truly moving and memorable speech.
Hannah Beachler Wins Best Production Design for Black Panther
Many thought Best Production Design would go toThe Favourite, butHannah Beachler’s win forBlack Pantherwas not just pleasantly surprising, it was historic. She became the first African-American to ever win in this category, and her speech was one of the night’s most memorable as she singled outBlack Pantherwriter/directorRyan Coogler. Indeed, Coogler broke the Marvel Studios mold by choosing his own department heads, andBlack Panthermarked Beachler’s biggest film by far—her previous credits include Coogler’sFruitvale StationandCreedas well asBeyonce’sLemonade.
Melissa McCarthy and Brian Tyree Henry Present Best Costume Design
Melissa McCarthyandBrian Tyree Henrywent big when presenting Best Costume Design, and it was hilarious.
Olivia Colman Surprises with Best Actress Win
The Best Actress category was down toGlenn Close,Olivia Colman, andLady Gaga, but most had this pegged as a win for Close, marking the veteran actress’ first win ever. Surprisingly, however, Colman won for her terrific performance inThe Favourite, and delivered an absolutely perfect speech.
Spike Lee Wins His First Competitive Oscar
WhileSpike Leewas given an honorary Oscar a few years ago, his Best Adapted Screenplay win forBlacKkKlansmanastoundingly marks his first competitive win ever. He delivered the most memorable speech of the night, made all the more special by the fact that he was given the award by longtime friend and collaboratorSamuel L. Jackson.
Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga Perform “Shallow”
Bradley CooperandLady Gagataking the stage to perform “Shallow” was a true show-stopping moment if there ever was one, and another reminder of how crazy it is thatA Star Is Borndidn’t outright sweep the Oscars.
