Remembering the 2024 Oscars, dominated by 'Kenergy'
Looking back on the 2024 Oscars, there were some great signs for the film industry. Two movies that people actually watched dominated the prizes... and the ceremony. But it was 'Barbie' that brought the strangest spectacle of all. Here's a look back at the 2024 Oscar's highlights.
In a dazzling display of "Kenergy," Ryan Gosling managed to eclipse the 'Oppenheimer' phenomenon with one of the most memorable Oscar performances in history. He sang 'I'm Just Ken' backed by a dance squad of 65 dancers, including the male cast of 'Barbie' and Slash on the guitar. The three-minute show-stopper is now etched into the annals of the Oscars, right as the awards approach their centennial.
However, his sublime performance didn't secure him the Oscar for Best Song, which went to 'What Was I Made For?' by Billie Eilish and Finneas O'Connell, also from the movie 'Barbie.' In the end, it was kept in the family.
At just 22 years old, Billie Eilish has become the youngest person ever to win two Oscars. She adds this latest trophy to her collection alongside the one she won in 2022 for 'No Time To Die,' the title track from the James Bond movie.
“My dress is broken," said Emma Stone as she got on stage to accept her Oscar for Best Actress. "I think it happened during ‘I’m Just Ken."
The actor and former wrestler presented the Oscar for Best Costume Design in his birthday suit in solidarity with the costume designers' union, who are demanding better working conditions under the slogan 'You're Naked Without Us.' John Cena took the slogan quite literally. Of course, he was eventually covered up with a curtain.
The big surprise of the red carpet was Vanessa Hudgens revealing her (advanced) pregnancy. She's expecting her first child with baseball player Cole Tucker. Not only did she flaunt her baby bump, but she did so in a stunning Vera Wang gown. Congratulations to the future mom.
She was one of the first to arrive, donning a majestic red Marchesa gown which, due to a small oversight, blended into the red carpet. The actress took a tumble right when the photographers were ready for her pose. Naturally, they captured the moment.
The 'In Memoriam' segment was the toughest part of the ceremony. And seeing Matthew Perry among those who passed away felt like a needle being driven straight into the hearts of millions of the actor's fans, many of whom were in the Dolby Theatre.
Photo: X - @alexr_241
The embrace between Lily Gladstone, Emma Stone, and Annette Benning made it clear that in the Best Actress category, there was a healthy rivalry but also a sense of camaraderie and good vibes among the competitors. The nominees were five fantastic performances, including those of Sandra Hüller and Carey Mulligan.
Al Pacino presented the award for Best Picture in the strangest way possible. “Best picture … uh, I have to go to the envelope for that. And I will. Here it comes. And my eyes see Oppenheimer?” No one understood anything, and the shadow of the 'LaLaLand' and 'Moonlight' mix-up hovered over the Dolby Theatre. Fortunately, it was 'Oppenheimer' that won in the end. "Yes, yes," he clarified.