The prestigious 97th Academy Awards ceremony, set to take place on March 2nd, promises an evening filled with glamour and celebration. Hosted by Conan O'Brien for the first time, this event will feature a star-studded lineup of presenters including Halle Berry, Penélope Cruz, Bowen Yang, Elle Fanning, Whoopi Goldberg, Scarlett Johansson, John Lithgow, Amy Poehler, and June Squibb. Additional presenters such as Robert Downey Jr., Cillian Murphy, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, and Emma Stone have already been announced, with more names expected to join the roster. The show will be broadcast on ABC and streamed live on Hulu.

A Glittering Lineup of Presenters and Nominees

In the heart of Hollywood's most anticipated night, several distinguished figures will grace the stage. Among them are multiple Oscar winners like Halle Berry, Penélope Cruz, Whoopi Goldberg, Robert Downey Jr., Cillian Murphy, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, and Emma Stone. These luminaries have either won or been nominated in various acting categories over the years. Notably, Bowen Yang made his mark earlier this year by presenting the Oscar nominees in January.

This year’s nominations showcase a diverse range of talent and films. Emilia Pérez leads the pack with 13 nominations, despite recent controversy surrounding co-star Karla Sofía Gascón's past social media posts. The films The Brutalist and Wicked follow closely with 10 nominations each. All three films are in contention for Best Picture, alongside other notable entries like Anora, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, I’m Still Here, Nickel Boys, and The Substance. Netflix leads the studios with 16 nominations, solidifying its presence in the industry.

The ceremony will kick off at 4 p.m. PT, maintaining the earlier start time introduced last year. The red carpet will open half an hour prior, setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable evening.

From a viewer's perspective, the Oscars not only celebrate cinematic achievements but also highlight the evolving landscape of the film industry. With a mix of established stars and fresh faces, this year's ceremony offers a glimpse into the future of storytelling and entertainment. The controversies surrounding some nominees serve as a reminder that art and public opinion often intersect in complex ways, making the event all the more compelling.