Oscar Contenders Jessie Buckley and Timothée Chalamet Shine at Luncheon Photo Op
Oscar nominees gathered in Beverly Hills for the Academy Award nominees luncheon, where celebrations and networking took center stage. Almost all of the 230 nominees from 24 categories attended this significant event.
Celebrities Take the Stage
Among the attendees were well-known names like Jessie Buckley, Timothée Chalamet, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Emma Stone. They mingled with nominees from various categories, including the newly introduced casting Oscar and the best animated short film.
The focal point of the luncheon was the ballroom at the Beverly Hilton, bustling with nominees from the record-holding film “Sinners.” This movie features prominent talents like Michael B. Jordan and director Ryan Coogler.
Academy President’s Address
Lynette Howell Taylor, who assumed the role of Academy president in July, delivered her first address to the nominees. She provided insightful tips for winners on how to navigate their acceptance speeches effectively.
- Be prepared to win.
- Avoid saying you didn’t expect to win.
- Choose one individual to represent all winners.
- Limit speeches to 45 seconds for brevity.
“Make it heartfelt,” Howell advised, emphasizing the importance of genuine expression during acceptance speeches.
A Place for All Nominees
The luncheon was a democratic gathering, where established stars interacted with newcomers. Notably, Craig Renaud, a nominee for best documentary short with “Armed Only With a Camera: The Life and Death of Brent Renaud,” engaged in conversation with DiCaprio. Nearby, Ethan Hawke shared thoughts on his film “Blue Moon” with Mohammaddreza Eyni, co-director of “Cutting Through Rocks.”
Memorable Moments
The event included a roll call, a tradition reminiscent of high school graduations. Each nominee received a certificate, styled like a diploma, upon leaving the venue, bringing excitement among the attendees.
This year’s roll call, conducted by actor Lou Diamond Phillips, started with Delroy Lindo, up for best supporting actor for “Sinners,” and concluded with Teyana Taylor, nominated for the competitor “One Battle After Another.”
A Return to Tradition
After last year’s luncheon was canceled due to wildfires in Southern California, this year marked a welcome return to tradition. The event fostered warm reunions among nominees, with Steven Spielberg and Paul Thomas Anderson sharing a moment in the lobby. Spielberg documented their encounter by taking photos next to an Oscar statue.
International Representation
Howell noted that nominees came from diverse backgrounds, with membership representing 88 countries. Each category featured at least one international nominee, showcasing the global reach of this prestigious event.
The Oscars continue to honor cinematic achievements, and gatherings like this lunch provide a vital opportunity for connection and celebration among the nominees in the lead-up to the ceremony.
