What happened today in history?
What happened
today in history?
[ Feb 26 ]
Back

The 89th Academy Awards: A Night of Surprises

Actress Emma Stone
Actor Casey Affleck
Actor Mahershala Ali

Celebrating Cinema: The 89th Academy Awards

The 89th Academy Awards, held in 2017, was a night full of glamour, talent, and unexpected twists. This prestigious event, hosted at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, not only honored the year’s best films but also showcased moments that will go down in Oscar history. The night is most remembered for a significant mistake during the presentation of the coveted Best Picture award.

The Dramatic Moment of Best Picture

As the tensions soared among nominees, the award for Best Picture was initially announced as going to the film La La Land. The producers were in the midst of celebrating their anticipated win when it was revealed that there had been a mix-up with the envelopes. In a shocking twist, Moonlight was correctly declared the winner moments later, making for a dramatic and unforgettable moment in Oscar history.

Significance of Moonlight's Win

Moonlight not only took the top award but also broke barriers as it became the first film with an all-Black cast to win Best Picture. This moment represented a significant step towards inclusivity and diversity in Hollywood, prompting discussions about representation in the film industry.

Recognizing Outstanding Talent

Beyond the Best Picture mix-up, the night honored outstanding achievements across various categories. Damien Chazelle took home the Oscar for Best Director for his poignant musical film, La La Land, marking him as the youngest director to ever win in this category.

Casey Affleck's Achievement

Casey Affleck, winner of Best Actor for his remarkable performance in Manchester by the Sea, delivered a heartfelt speech, reflecting on loss and family, which resonated with many attendees and viewers.

Emma Stone's Moment

Emma Stone won the award for Best Actress for her role in La La Land. Her performance not only captivated audiences but also showcased her immense talent and depth as an actress, solidifying her status in Hollywood.

Fun Fact: The Most Memorable Mix-Up

The Oscar Mix-Up that Stole the Show

One of the great narratives from the 89th Academy Awards was the mix-up that led to Moonlight being awarded Best Picture. This unprecedented mistake has since become a legendary moment referenced in Oscar history and discussions about award presentation procedures.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on the Academy Awards

For those interested in learning more about the Academy Awards and its history, consider reading "The Academy Awards: The Complete History" for a detailed exploration, or "Oscars Dreambook" which covers predictions and the buzz surrounding nominees.