Greetings from the vibrant heart of Hollywood, where the anticipation of the Oscar ceremony fills the air.
Sure, I mention the red carpet, but it’s important to note that when folks like me are granted access, that glamorous expanse is often shielded beneath layers of plastic sheeting. This effort is to keep it immaculate for the true luminaries of the evening, as technicians and skilled artisans put the finishing touches on what might as well be called the “Great TV Set of the Red Carpet.” This remarkable installation takes days to assemble here on Hollywood Boulevard, specifically at the corner of Highland Avenue. Yet, once the stars are seated in the renowned Dolby Theatre, dismantling the entire setup begins almost immediately.
This year, more than ever, the minds and spirits of these talented workers—your technicians, craftspeople, and behind-the-scenes heroes—are at the forefront of conversation. This Oscar ceremony is unfolding against the backdrop of the devastating wildfires that have swept through the outskirts of Hollywood, leaving a trail of destruction.
Among those affected were of course a few movie stars, leading publicists at the Oscar Wildes Awards last Thursday to urge that no questions about personal property go unaddressed; the sensitivity of the situation is palpable.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, a name as grand as it is unwieldy, is tasked with organizing this colossal celebration we understand simply as “The Academy.” Discussions had circulated about the possibility of canceling the event in the immediate aftermath of those harrowing fires. Yet, in the spirit of resilience, the sentiment prevailed: the show must go on. And there are sound reasons behind this decision.
The Oscars are a lifeline for many—freelancers, self-employed professionals, and those navigating the insecurities of the gig economy all rely on this event for crucial financial support. For drivers, caterers, photographers, and nearly everyone who dreams of having their name associated with glamour and glitz, this night represents an opportunity for a significant payday. Cancelling the ceremony would only deepen the struggles for countless individuals who provide essential services to make these extravaganzas happen.
Moreover, the Oscars are imbued with a sense of pride for the citizens of Los Angeles. They represent not just an event but a celebration that places their city at the forefront of a global audience’s attention. The entertainment industry is built on themes of escapism, and amid the ongoing emotional toll of the fires, this night offers a breath of fresh air—a momentary lift from battling overwhelming uncertainties, especially for those still reeling from the aftermath of the fires or anxious about skyrocketing home insurance premiums.
Yet, despite the familiar splendor of the occasion, there seems to be a somber tone to this year’s festivities. The typical buzz surrounding exclusive parties, high-fashion gowns, and elated speeches has been notably subdued. A notable absence is the fervent political discourse that often characterizes these celebrations. The changing political climate in Washington, D.C., has sent ripples of tension throughout the industry.
The recent return of Donald J. Trump to the White House has cast shadows, triggering a wave of caution among those in Tinseltown, a community typically resistant to the sentiment expressed by the MAGA movement. Interestingly, it appears that the President has appointed three “Ambassadors to Hollywood” in the likes of Mel Gibson, Sylvester Stallone, and Jon Voight. Their mission? To communicate “common sense” to the residents of this glittering realm, a fascinating undertaking given the tumultuous history between Hollywood and conservative politics.
As a temporary resident of D.C. myself, subjected to a relentless influx of conspiracy theories and opinions via every conceivable media channel, I can’t help but ponder: has the inauguration of President Trump shifted the landscape of this year’s Oscars? Just months prior, all the buzz surrounded “Emelia Pérez,” the film poised for major accolades. However, the political tide has since shifted; now, “Anora,” which explores the lavish escapades of a Russian oligarch’s son in New York, has become the new darling of the industry.
Another layer to this narrative? God’s reappearance in political discourse. President Trump has publicly claimed divine intervention protected him from an would-be assassin during his campaign, reviving interest in “Conclave,” a thought-provoking film about an election in the Vatican. This twist of fate has resulted in unexpected momentum for films like “The Brutalist,” a three-and-a-half-hour epic about a Hungarian architect chasing the elusive American dream.
As the landscape evolves, so too does the scrutiny on films that portray Trump’s very own narrative, notably “The Apprentice.” It stands as a compelling drama that delves into Trump’s early ventures in New York real estate and the aggressive tactics learned from infamous attorney Roy Cohen. The performances by Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong—nominated for Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor, respectively—arguably bring to life the complexities of Trump’s character.
And yet, the President has made his discontent with the film abundantly clear. From tweeting that it should “be burned in a dumpster fire” to issuing cease and desist letters, his opinions are well documented. I had the privilege of speaking with Ruth Treacy from Tailored Films at the Oscar Wildes last week, who elaborated on the rather colorful communication with the President: “He hasn’t been too quiet about the film… though he might have other things occupying his mind now, who knows?” Curious, I asked if an Oscar win would change Trump’s perspective. “I think he should appreciate it, honestly,” Ruth replied, her conviction shining through.
This dialogue leaves lingering questions. Is there a thread connecting the political tensions and the narratives emerging this Oscar season? How does the intersection of Hollywood and politics shape the stories we tell ourselves? These ponderings, wrapped in the glitz of the Oscars, make for a truly captivating discourse—a testament to the resilience and creativity that defines this industry.
As we prepare to celebrate the art of film tonight, the juxtaposition of glamour and reality remains at the heart of this event. Indeed, as with any great narrative, there are always layers to peel back and deeper truths to unearth. Therein lies the beauty of cinema.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
