The 97th Academy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles saw a remarkable night for cinema, with the film "Anora" emerging as the big winner. Meanwhile, USA TODAY's inaugural Movie Meter poll revealed that the public had a different favorite. The audience-voted "Wicked," an adaptation of a Broadway musical, became a global box office sensation and garnered significant attention for its compelling narrative and stellar performances. Despite not winning the top Oscar, "Wicked" secured two prestigious awards for costume design and production design. This event underscored the divergence between critical acclaim and public preference in the world of cinema.
Sean Baker’s "Anora" captivated both critics and audiences alike. The film tells the story of Ani, a young exotic dancer from New York, who finds herself entangled in an unexpected relationship with Vanya, the son of a Russian oligarch. This bittersweet tale explores themes of love, vulnerability, and personal transformation. With its nuanced portrayal of characters and a poignant storyline, "Anora" resonated deeply with viewers. The film has grossed $41 million worldwide, proving its commercial success alongside its critical acclaim. The win at the Oscars solidified its place as one of the year's most notable films.
On the other hand, "Wicked," which delves into the untold story of the witches of Oz, captured the hearts of moviegoers through its powerful messages about friendship, acceptance, and standing up for what is right. Featuring unforgettable performances by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, the film became the highest-grossing movie based on a Broadway musical, earning over $728 million globally. Its ten Oscar nominations highlighted its significance in the industry, even though it ultimately did not take home the best picture award.
The introduction of USA TODAY’s Movie Meter allowed the public to voice their opinions on the nominated films, creating a platform that bridges the gap between critics and audiences. Monica Richardson, Senior Vice President of USA TODAY, emphasized the importance of this initiative in providing content that resonates with readers. The program’s success will likely enhance USA TODAY’s role as a leading source for entertainment news. Ralphie Aversa, host of “Entertain This!,” announced the inaugural winner on the “Today” show, further highlighting the event’s significance.
Beyond "Wicked," other audience favorites included "A Complete Unknown," "Conclave," "The Brutalist," and "The Substance." These selections reflect the diverse tastes of movie enthusiasts and the rich variety of films that competed for recognition this year. The Academy Awards not only celebrated cinematic excellence but also showcased the power of storytelling and the impact it has on both critics and the general public.