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On Wicked: “This film is perfect for anyone who has ever viewed The Wizard of Oz and wondered about the backstories of its lesser-known characters.”
On Karla Sofía Gascón: “Anora showcases a staggering use of the F-word, surpassing even the record previously maintained by Gascón’s publicist. And if Karla decides to tweet during the Oscars, I’d like to remind her that my name is Jimmy Kimmel.”
On The Brutalist: “I genuinely adored The Brutalist. The story was so compelling that I was sad to see it come to an end, but fortunately, it didn’t end too abruptly.”
On Conclave: “If Conclave hasn’t crossed your radar yet, it delves into the complexities of the Catholic Church, but no need for concern.”
On Anora: “Anora appears to be having a memorable evening, as it seems many are eager to witness someone challenge a powerful figure from Russia.”
On A Complete Unknown: “Timothée Chalamet received a nomination for his interpretation of Bob Dylan. While Dylan might have wanted to be at the event, it didn’t seem to be high on his priorities.”
On Flow: “This marks Latvia’s first win at the Oscars. Estonia, it’s your turn now to step up!”
Midway through the broadcast: “As we reach the halfway mark of the show, it’s time for Kendrick Lamar to make an appearance and poke fun at Drake. Don’t fret, I have legal representation!”
Presenting best original screenplay: “I’m privileged to present the evening’s two most coveted awards: the best athletic performance and best hairstyle. As Shakespeare might have said, ‘Writing is a challenging endeavor.’”
Presenting best adapted screenplay: “The award for best adapted screenplay encompasses narratives journeying globally. It’s fascinating to ponder, given how challenging it is to find the right adapter.”
Kieran Culkin
Accepting the Oscar for best supporting actor: “I must express my gratitude to my mother and Steve for their efforts in raising me. You are truly remarkable individuals, and I appreciate all that you have done. I love you, mom.”
On asking his wife Jazz for a third child onstage at the Emmys: “About a year ago, I was in a similar situation where I foolishly expressed my desire for a third child, based on something my wife mentioned. After the ceremony, she remembered her comment, leading us to an amusing exchange about the number of children to have. I jokingly suggested four, and she made a playful challenge linked to my future successes. Sorry to reignite this topic, Jazz, but let’s consider expanding our family soon!”
June Squibb
Presenting the award for best makeup: “I took the liberty of having some makeup applied myself, and humorously, I’m currently portrayed by Bill Skarsgård. When you see me in public, it’s often Bill you’re seeing, while the real June Squibb is cozied up at home with a book.”
Presenting the award for best original song: “It’s a true privilege to present the best original song award tonight. While it’s exciting to do, I wasn’t the first pick. The producers initially hoped Bob Dylan would present, but he preferred to pass the baton to someone younger, saying, ‘Find someone younger!’ And here I stand, ready to take on the role!”
Zoe Saldaña
Accepting the award for best supporting actress: “To my husband, with that wonderful hair! Being your partner is the greatest honor of my life. Together, we’ve created beautiful boys, Cy, Bowie, and Zen—the stars of our lives. My grandmother arrived in this country in 1961. I am a proud American of Dominican heritage, and tonight I stand here as the first to accept this Academy award, with assurance that I won’t be the last. I’m overjoyed to receive this award for a role in which I was able to sing and speak in Spanish—my grandmother would be thrilled.”
Sean Baker, director, writer and editor of Anora
Accepting the award for best editing: “In editing, I saved this film—it’s time for the director to step aside!”
Accepting the award for best director: “Tonight we gather because we share a love for cinema. Recollecting our fondest memories, most likely they took place in a theater alongside an audience. Seeing a film collectively allows us to share laughter, tears, fear, and silent reflection. Given today’s divisions in the world, this communal experience is increasingly critical. Unfortunately, the movie theater experience is in jeopardy. During the pandemic, we witnessed the loss of nearly 1,000 screens across the US. This is a rallying cry: filmmakers, continue creating films for the big screen; I certainly will.”
Basel Adra and Yuval Abraham, co-directors of No Other Land
Basel Adra, accepting the award for No Other Land: “Just two months ago, I became a father and I aspire for my daughter to have a life free from the fears of violence, home demolitions, and forced displacement that my community, Masafer Yatta, endures daily under Israeli occupation. No Other Land reflects the relentless challenges we’ve faced for decades while we continue to resist and call for global accountability to mitigate these injustices against the Palestinian people.”
Yuval Abraham: “We crafted this film collaboratively, Palestinians and Israelis, because our unified voices resonate more powerfully. We witness the ongoing devastation in Gaza that must cease, and also the urgent need to free the Israeli hostages taken during the tragic events of October 7. When I look at Basel, I see a brother, yet we inhabit unequal realities. I live under civilian law, while Basel endures military law that constrains his existence. There is an alternative path—a political solution devoid of ethnic supremacy, recognizing the national rights of both our peoples. I believe the foreign policy of this nation obstructs this possibility. Can you not perceive that our destinies are intertwined? My safety is dependent on Basel’s freedom. It is not too late to choose life for everyone.”
Victoria Warmerdam, director and writer of I’m Not a Robot
Accepting the award for best live action short, to the film’s producer Trent: “As typically reserved Dutch people, it’s uncommon for us to express such emotions, but I love you.”
Accepting the best actor award for The Brutalist: “I stand here yet again, representing the enduring traumas of war, systemic oppression, antisemitism, and discrimination. I yearn for a future filled with health, happiness, and inclusivity. If history teaches us anything, it’s the crucial lesson to never allow hate to thrive unchecked. Let us collectively strive for what’s right, maintain our spirits, and love one another as we work toward rebuilding.”
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Source
www.theguardian.com