The Oscars are arguably Hollywood’s biggest night, presenting a convergence of everyone affiliated with the Hollywood filming industry. From our favourite actors to the technical geniuses sequestered behind the cameras, everyone is visibly ecstatic to experience or make history. As the Oscar tradition holds, the night is prefaced with a red carpet event: an Academy Award tradition that showcases the biggest stars resplendent in glamorous apparel, exuding flair, opulence, and intrigue—Hollywood’s very own interpretation of the Gala.
The Academy Awards honour the best in cinematic entertainment, and that anticipation keeps us in our seats. Interestingly, the debates and intrigue behind the Oscars go well beyond the stellar dresses and contentious winners. It extends to the controversies and those moments of entropy. As such, they become an integral part of the Oscar discourse, interwoven into its social dynamic.
Our interest lies in these contentious topics, particularly with Black people and just how much they have contributed to making these nights ones to remember. From Will Smith’s thunderous slap to Chris Rock, which can still be heard all over the world, to Angela Bassett’s bitter reaction to an award snub, we highlight some of the key moments involving Black people in the 96th edition of the Oscars.
A Kiss Through Memory Lane
Halle Berry sent the media world into a frenzy by recreating one of the most iconic moments of the Oscars; her brusque kissing scene with Adrien in 2003. This time, she reversed the roles, kissing Adrien during his red carpet interview. This was followed by hysterical reactions and online tension, invariably laying the groundwork for a night of contention and intrigue. The historical context behind the moment blurs any misinterpretations, showcasing a lighthearted and playful moment. It was a playful rendition of the 2003 event, as she has been waiting for more than twenty years, “to slap one on him” for what he did to her years ago. The reenactment solidifies both instances as a playful exchange between longtime friends, nothing more, nothing less.
Paul Tazewell’s Wizard of Oz Moments
Shifting from the focus of benign controversy, in the moment of profound Black excellence and weighted gratitude, Tazewell captivates the hearts of many watching and receives a standing ovation from the Oscar attendees with his win for best costume design. Paul Tazewell makes history, becoming the first Black man to win an Oscar for Best Costume Design. He becomes the first Black man and the second Black winner in this category, following Ruth E. Carter for her work in Black Panther and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Paul Tazewell describes his moment of triumph as his “Wizard of Oz” moment—truly, the pinnacle of his career. He further highlights his 35-year career, exploring his transition from Broadway to film. Tazewell joins the exclusive class of winners and an even smaller group of black winners.
Quincy Jones Tribute
The passing of a legend is always a heartfelt moment, especially when they have lived a life of exceptional work and inspiration. Although tributes may not be an integral part of the Oscars in a rigid sense, the emotions and receptions around them make it a recurring motif. This year’s edition was no exception as stars Opray Winfrey, Whoopi Goldberg, and Queen Latifah celebrated Quincy Jones's legacy. This tribute, however, incited some major controversy. The mixed reactions centred around the nature of the tribute, particularly the song choice and its execution.
Queen Latifah performed the iconic Ease on Down the Road, and although her rendition of the song was glorious and pulsating, contention arose regarding the contextual demands for the event. These arguments aggressively leaned towards the song choice, which failed to appropriately capture Quincy’s depth and his musical prowess. As such, many believed that the performance was too fun and whimsical when it should have been more reverent or an intricate blend of both.
Regardless of the critical responses, this year's tribute acknowledges an icon—an ode to an industry treasure who might be gone but whose legacy will transcend many generations to come.
Conclusion
Black history at the Oscars tells a story of resilience, controversy, and the zest for inclusion. From segregation, snubs, and defiance to tributes, powerful victories, and defining moments, these experiences underscore underlying representational issues and the need for better systems. It tells us that the industry is somewhat inchoate, and as such, there is still much to do. Stories of Black excellence should not be an overt display of merriment due to its limited occurrence but a prevalent industry norm. Regardless, Black excellence always finds a way to shine, bringing its flair of magic, passion, and drama.
These are the very moments that keep us inspired.
