Oscars Recap: Warner Bros. Triumphs, Netflix Dominates, and Indie Films Struggle
Warner Bros. had a successful night at the Oscars with their movies "One Battle After Another" and "Sinners" grossing $210 million and $369 million worldwide, respectively. While many Hollywood studios focus on sequels and remakes, Warner Bros. has taken risks with original big-budget films. Paramount Skydance emerged as the winner in the bid to acquire Warner and its assets, potentially marking the end of Warner as a standalone movie company.
Indie films faced a tough night at the Oscars, with Netflix winning seven awards, the most in its history. A24's "Marty Supreme," "The Secret Agent," and "Bugonia" were among the indie darlings that went home empty-handed despite multiple nominations.
Irish actress Jessie Buckley won the best actress Oscar for her role in "Hamnet," completing an awards season sweep. "Frankenstein" on Netflix won three Oscars for best costume, makeup and hairstyling, and production design. The film also featured a scripted marketing moment for the upcoming movie "The Devil Wears Prada 2."
Casting director Cassandra Kulukundis received an Oscar for her work on "One Battle After Another," marking the first time a casting director was honored at the Academy Awards. Amy Madigan won the supporting actress Oscar for her role in "Weapons," a late-career triumph for the veteran actress.
"KPop Demon Hunters" was named best animated movie and won for best song, with director Maggie Kang advocating for diversity in filmmaking. The live-action short category resulted in a tie between "Two People Exchanging Saliva" and "The Singers," leading to an awkward moment during the acceptance speeches.
The in memoriam segment honored director Rob Reiner and featured a tribute by Barbra Streisand to Robert Redford. Documentary winners included "All the Empty Rooms" and "Mr. Nobody Against Putin." Conan O'Brien hosted the ceremony, opening with a parody of "Weapons" and keeping the show light-hearted with Hollywood jokes and sight gags.