The Barack and Michelle Obama-produced film<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscras-news-oscars-2020-barack-and-michelle-obamas-production-company-earns-first-nomination-274188"> 'American Factory' </a>snagged an Oscar on Sunday for best documentary -- a win for Netflix, which backed the story of a manufacturing plant in the US Midwest reopened by a Chinese billionaire. 
 
The film charts a Rust Belt community's journey from optimism at the giant plant's reopening, which brought back vital jobs, towards creeping anger and disillusionment, as the Chinese management imposed strict, exhausting demands on workers -- and sacked those who did not comply. 
 
"Our film is from Ohio and China," director Julia Reichert said. "But it really could be from anywhere that people put on a uniform, punch a clock, trying to make their families have a better life." 
 
"Working people have it harder and harder these days, and we believe that things will get better when workers of the world unite," she said in accepting her statuette. 
 
Co-directed by Reichert and Steven Bognar, the film is an all-access look at how both American and Chinese workers, from blue-collar to management, had their lives transformed by powerful global economic forces. 
 
The story was moving enough to catch notice from none other than the Obamas. 
 
The former first couple acquired "American Factory" early last year at the Sundance Film Festival, where it had won the directing award. 
 
It was released on Netflix in August 2019 as the first offering from the former first couple's Higher Ground Productions company. 
The film's co-producer and the factory's chairman were unable to leave China for the ceremony, due to White House restrictions on travel over the coronavirus panic. 
 
"That inconvenience pales when compared to people losing their lives, suffering because of this virus," co-director Bognar said backstage.&nbsp; 
 
The Obamas congratulated Reichert and Bognar for their win Sunday, with the former president calling the film "a complex, moving story about the very human consequences of wrenching economic change." 
 
"Glad to see two talented and downright good people take home the Oscar for Higher Ground's first release," he tweeted.

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Congrats to Julia and Steven, the filmmakers behind American Factory, for telling such a complex, moving story about the very human consequences of wrenching economic change. Glad to see two talented and downright good people take home the Oscar for Higher Ground’s first release. <a href="https://t.co/W4AZ68iWoY">https://t.co/W4AZ68iWoY</a>
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama/status/1226696870292008960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The former first lady said she was "glad to see their heart and honesty recognized -- because the best stories are rarely tidy or perfect." 
 
"But that's where the truth so often lies," she tweeted.

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Congrats to Julia, Steven, and the whole crew on winning Best Documentary for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmericanFactory?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmericanFactory</a>, Higher Ground's first release! So glad to see their heart and honesty recognized—because the best stories are rarely tidy or perfect. But that’s where the truth so often lies. <a href="https://t.co/qtdNEw9H3f">https://t.co/qtdNEw9H3f</a>
— Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichelleObama/status/1226699064496074752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"American Factory" bested "The Edge of Democracy," "The Cave," "For Sama" and "Honeyland" to take the Oscar.

The Barack and Michelle Obama-produced film 'American Factory' snagged an Oscar on Sunday for best documentary -- a win for Netflix, which backed the story of a manufacturing plant in the US Midwest reopened by a Chinese billionaire.

The Barack and Michelle Obama-produced film 'American Factory' snagged an Oscar on Sunday for best documentary -- a win for Netflix, which backed the story of a manufacturing plant in the US Midwest reopened by a Chinese billionaire. The film charts a Rust Belt community's journey from optimism at the giant plant's reopening, which brought back vital jobs, towards creeping anger and disillusionment, as the Chinese management imposed strict, exhausting demands on workers -- and sacked those who did not comply. "Our film is from Ohio and China," director Julia Reichert said. "But it really could be from anywhere that people put on a uniform, punch a clock, trying to make their families have a better life." "Working people have it harder and harder these days, and we believe that things will get better when workers of the world unite," she said in accepting her statuette. Co-directed by Reichert and Steven Bognar, the film is an all-access look at how both American and Chinese workers, from blue-collar to management, had their lives transformed by powerful global economic forces. The story was moving enough to catch notice from none other than the Obamas. The former first couple acquired "American Factory" early last year at the Sundance Film Festival, where it had won the directing award. It was released on Netflix in August 2019 as the first offering from the former first couple's Higher Ground Productions company. The film's co-producer and the factory's chairman were unable to leave China for the ceremony, due to White House restrictions on travel over the coronavirus panic. "That inconvenience pales when compared to people losing their lives, suffering because of this virus," co-director Bognar said backstage. The Obamas congratulated Reichert and Bognar for their win Sunday, with the former president calling the film "a complex, moving story about the very human consequences of wrenching economic change." "Glad to see two talented and downright good people take home the Oscar for Higher Ground's first release," he tweeted. Congrats to Julia and Steven, the filmmakers behind American Factory, for telling such a complex, moving story about the very human consequences of wrenching economic change. Glad to see two talented and downright good people take home the Oscar for Higher Ground’s first release. https://t.co/W4AZ68iWoY — Barack Obama (@BarackObama) February 10, 2020 × The former first lady said she was "glad to see their heart and honesty recognized -- because the best stories are rarely tidy or perfect." "But that's where the truth so often lies," she tweeted. Congrats to Julia, Steven, and the whole crew on winning Best Documentary for #AmericanFactory, Higher Ground's first release! So glad to see their heart and honesty recognized—because the best stories are rarely tidy or perfect. But that’s where the truth so often lies. https://t.co/qtdNEw9H3f — Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) February 10, 2020 × "American Factory" bested "The Edge of Democracy," "The Cave," "For Sama" and "Honeyland" to take the Oscar.

Obamas' first film wins best documentary Oscar

South Korean filmmaker Bong Joon-ho has been on quite a wild ride this awards season.&nbsp;That trip reached its climax Sunday when he <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/92nd-academy-awards-showcases-diversity-as-south-koreas-parasite-wins-top-honours-creates-history-279723">made history with 'Parasite</a>,' the first non-English-language film ever to win the best picture Oscar. 
 
The film, a vicious&nbsp;satire about the widening gap between rich and poor, took home four Academy Awards -- for best picture, best director, best original screenplay and best international feature after winning the Palme d'Or at Cannes, a Golden Globe and two Baftas. 
 
"We never write to represent our countries," said the 50-year-old Bong. "But this is (the) very first Oscar to South Korea. Thank you."&nbsp; 
Later, as he accepted the prize for best international feature, he said in English, eliciting laughs from the audience: "Yeah, I'm ready to drink tonight." 
 
As the night wore on and 'Parasite'&nbsp;kept collecting awards, Bong was overcome. 
 
"It's very hard to believe. It's such a great honor," he said backstage. 
 
Bong -- who is known for his dark and genre-hopping thrillers -- already had a series of critical and commercial hits behind him before 'Parasite' and is one of South Korea's best-known faces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-winner-the-complete-list-of-winners-for-the-92nd-academy-awards-oscars-2020-279700">The complete list of winners for the 92nd Academy Awards</a> 
 
His triumph on Hollywood's biggest night should take him to new heights. 
 
The significance of Bong's win "cannot be underestimated both for Korean cinema and non-English language cinema as a whole," Jason Bechervaise, a professor at Korea Soongsil Cyber University, told AFP.&nbsp; 
 
"It will obviously go down in the history books." 
 
- Artistic elite - 
 
Bong grew up in an elite artistic family in Seoul --&nbsp;his maternal grandfather was a renowned novelist while his late father and all of his siblings are university professors in fields including fashion and fine art. 
 
He studied sociology at the South's prestigious Yonsei University and reportedly took part in street protests while enrolled there during the country's pro-democracy movement in the 1980s. 
 
Bong once told an interviewer he had been arrested for using petrol bombs. 
 
He was among the first wave of South Korean filmmakers to blossom after the country's full democratisation, which opened the door for a cultural renaissance. 
 
His 'Memories of Murder" -- a 2003 feature film based on real-life serial killings that rattled the nation in the 1980s -- was seen as a metaphor for a repressive society under military rule.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-red-carpet-brad-pitt-natalie-portman-billy-porter-pump-up-the-fashion-279675">In Pictures: See all the head-turning appearances at Oscars red carpet.&nbsp;</a> 
 
Bong's 2006 monster blockbuster 'The Host' portrayed an incompetent government left helpless in the wake of a disaster. In 2014, parallels were drawn between the film and the&nbsp;Sewol&nbsp;ferry sinking that killed 300, mostly schoolchildren. 
 
His 2013 'Snowpiercer' depicted a dystopian future in which the last humans on Earth -- who survived a failed attempt to stop global warming -- travel endlessly on a train separated according to class, and the lower class revolts. 
 
Tilda Swinton, who was in 'Snowpiercer,'&nbsp;also starred in Bong's Netflix-produced 2017 sci-fi action-adventure 'Okja' about a country girl trying to save a genetically-engineered beast from a greedy multinational firm. 
 
Quentin Tarantino -- whose 'Once Upon a Time... In Hollywood' won two Oscars on Sunday -- once likened the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-bong-joon-hos-pays-tribute-to-martin-scorsese-in-his-best-director-winning-speech-279737">South Korean to "Steven Spielberg in his prime".</a> 
 
Bong is "not a filmmaker who has come out of nowhere, he's been an established director for close to 20 years and has made exceptional films," Bechervaise told AFP.&nbsp; 
 
"He's also very charming and sociable. This has been a factor, I think, in how far the film has gone having done hundreds of interviews, possibly more, and mingling with voters and the Hollywood elite." 
 
- Political subtext - 
 
Throughout his career, Bong has often tackled dark and difficult subjects including violent crime, systematic oppression and the climate crisis. &nbsp;&nbsp; 
 
He also has candidly spoken about&nbsp;dealing with severe anxiety, in&nbsp;a country where mental health has long been a taboo topic. 
 
"All his films are sociology-in-motion, and all his films have a political subtext," said Michael Hurt, a sociologist at the University of Seoul. 
 
"They're all deeply inoculated with socially critical, political thought, without being preachy or obvious about it. Few other directors can do this."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kobe-bryant-kirk-douglas-paid-tribute-at-academy-awards-2020-ceremony-279772">Also see:&nbsp;Kobe Bryant, Kirk Douglas paid tribute at Academy Awards 2020 ceremony</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-news-natalie-portman-honours-women-directors-snubbed-by-the-academy-via-her-oscars-gown-279635">Also see:&nbsp;Natalie Portman honours women directors snubbed by The Academy via her Oscars gown</a>

South Korean filmmaker Bong Joon-ho has been on quite a wild ride this awards season. That trip reached its climax Sunday when he made history with 'Parasite,' the first non-English-language film ever to win the best picture Oscar.

South Korean filmmaker Bong Joon-ho has been on quite a wild ride this awards season. That trip reached its climax Sunday when he made history with 'Parasite,' the first non-English-language film ever to win the best picture Oscar. The film, a vicious satire about the widening gap between rich and poor, took home four Academy Awards -- for best picture, best director, best original screenplay and best international feature after winning the Palme d'Or at Cannes, a Golden Globe and two Baftas. "We never write to represent our countries," said the 50-year-old Bong. "But this is (the) very first Oscar to South Korea. Thank you." Later, as he accepted the prize for best international feature, he said in English, eliciting laughs from the audience: "Yeah, I'm ready to drink tonight." As the night wore on and 'Parasite' kept collecting awards, Bong was overcome. "It's very hard to believe. It's such a great honor," he said backstage. Bong -- who is known for his dark and genre-hopping thrillers -- already had a series of critical and commercial hits behind him before 'Parasite' and is one of South Korea's best-known faces. The complete list of winners for the 92nd Academy Awards His triumph on Hollywood's biggest night should take him to new heights. The significance of Bong's win "cannot be underestimated both for Korean cinema and non-English language cinema as a whole," Jason Bechervaise, a professor at Korea Soongsil Cyber University, told AFP. "It will obviously go down in the history books." - Artistic elite - Bong grew up in an elite artistic family in Seoul -- his maternal grandfather was a renowned novelist while his late father and all of his siblings are university professors in fields including fashion and fine art. He studied sociology at the South's prestigious Yonsei University and reportedly took part in street protests while enrolled there during the country's pro-democracy movement in the 1980s. Bong once told an interviewer he had been arrested for using petrol bombs. He was among the first wave of South Korean filmmakers to blossom after the country's full democratisation, which opened the door for a cultural renaissance. His 'Memories of Murder" -- a 2003 feature film based on real-life serial killings that rattled the nation in the 1980s -- was seen as a metaphor for a repressive society under military rule. In Pictures: See all the head-turning appearances at Oscars red carpet. Bong's 2006 monster blockbuster 'The Host' portrayed an incompetent government left helpless in the wake of a disaster. In 2014, parallels were drawn between the film and the Sewol ferry sinking that killed 300, mostly schoolchildren. His 2013 'Snowpiercer' depicted a dystopian future in which the last humans on Earth -- who survived a failed attempt to stop global warming -- travel endlessly on a train separated according to class, and the lower class revolts. Tilda Swinton, who was in 'Snowpiercer,' also starred in Bong's Netflix-produced 2017 sci-fi action-adventure 'Okja' about a country girl trying to save a genetically-engineered beast from a greedy multinational firm. Quentin Tarantino -- whose 'Once Upon a Time... In Hollywood' won two Oscars on Sunday -- once likened the South Korean to "Steven Spielberg in his prime". Bong is "not a filmmaker who has come out of nowhere, he's been an established director for close to 20 years and has made exceptional films," Bechervaise told AFP. "He's also very charming and sociable. This has been a factor, I think, in how far the film has gone having done hundreds of interviews, possibly more, and mingling with voters and the Hollywood elite." - Political subtext - Throughout his career, Bong has often tackled dark and difficult subjects including violent crime, systematic oppression and the climate crisis. He also has candidly spoken about dealing with severe anxiety, in a country where mental health has long been a taboo topic. "All his films are sociology-in-motion, and all his films have a political subtext," said Michael Hurt, a sociologist at the University of Seoul. "They're all deeply inoculated with socially critical, political thought, without being preachy or obvious about it. Few other directors can do this." Also see: Kobe Bryant, Kirk Douglas paid tribute at Academy Awards 2020 ceremony Also see: Natalie Portman honours women directors snubbed by The Academy via her Oscars gown

Meet Bong Joon-ho, South Korea's boundary-pushing satirist

Oscars 2020: From ruffles to tacky shimmer, here's our worst dressed celebs list

On Sunday night at the Oscar awards ceremony, as Bong Joon-ho picked up four awards including the one for best direction, the Korean filmmaker paid a fitting tribute legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese- whom he admitted was a great source of inspiration during his growing up years.&nbsp; 
 
"When I was young and studying cinema, there was a saying that I carved deep into my heart, which is that 'the most personal is the most creative.' That quote is from our great Martin Scorsese. When I was in school, I studied Martin Scorsese's films. Just to be nominated was a huge honour. I never thought I would win," Bong said.&nbsp; 
 
The Korean filmmaker created history on Sunday night as he became the first director from South Korea to win the best director award. His film 'Parasite' created history as it became the first non-English film to win the best picture award. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-the-complete-list-of-winners-for-the-92nd-academy-awards-279700">See the full list of winners here</a>

Scorsese was a fellow nominee in the category for his work in 'The Irishman'.&nbsp; 
 
Bong also thanked Quentin Tarantino for introducing US to his films. "When people in the U.S. were not familiar with my films, Quentin always put my films on his list. He's here, thank you so much. Quentin, I love you"

"And Todd and Sam, great directors that I admire. If the Academy allows, I would like to get a Texas chainsaw, split the award into five and share it with all of you," the director added as he thanked his fellow nominees.&nbsp;

Here's the full speech and the video of his winning moment.&nbsp;

"Thank you. After winning best international feature, I thought I was done for the day and was ready to relax.

Thank you so much. When I was young and studying cinema, there was a saying that I carved deep into my heart, which is that 'the most personal is the most creative.'

That quote is from our great Martin Scorsese. When I was in school, I studied Martin Scorsese's films. Just to be nominated was a huge honor. I never thought I would win.

When people in the U.S. were not familiar with my films, Quentin always put my films on his list. He's here, thank you so much. Quentin, I love you.

And Todd and Sam, great directors that I admire. If the Academy allows, I would like to get a Texas chainsaw, split the award into five and share it with all of you.

Thank you. I will drink until next morning, thank you."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Oscars?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Oscars</a> Moment: Bong Joon Ho accepts the Oscar for Best Directing for <a href="https://twitter.com/ParasiteMovie?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ParasiteMovie</a>. <a href="https://t.co/b7t6bYGdzw">pic.twitter.com/b7t6bYGdzw</a>
— The Academy (@TheAcademy) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheAcademy/status/1226719645849145344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/92nd-academy-awards-showcases-diversity-as-south-koreas-parasite-wins-top-honours-creates-history-279723">'Parasite' is also the first film </a>to have won in both best international feature and best picture category at the Oscars.&nbsp;Bong Joon-ho also was the co-winner in the best screenplay category.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-news-natalie-portman-honours-women-directors-snubbed-by-the-academy-via-her-oscars-gown-279635">Natalie Portman honours women directors snubbed by The Academy via her Oscars gown</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-red-carpet-brad-pitt-natalie-portman-billy-porter-pump-up-the-fashion-279675">In Pictures: See all the head-turning appearances at Oscars red carpet.</a>

On Sunday night at the Oscar awards ceremony, as Bong Joon-ho picked up four awards including the one for best direction, the Korean filmmaker paid a fitting tribute legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese- whom he admitted was a great source of inspiration during his growing up years.

On Sunday night at the Oscar awards ceremony, as Bong Joon-ho picked up four awards including the one for best direction, the Korean filmmaker paid a fitting tribute legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese- whom he admitted was a great source of inspiration during his growing up years. "When I was young and studying cinema, there was a saying that I carved deep into my heart, which is that 'the most personal is the most creative.' That quote is from our great Martin Scorsese. When I was in school, I studied Martin Scorsese's films. Just to be nominated was a huge honour. I never thought I would win," Bong said. The Korean filmmaker created history on Sunday night as he became the first director from South Korea to win the best director award. His film 'Parasite' created history as it became the first non-English film to win the best picture award. See the full list of winners here Scorsese was a fellow nominee in the category for his work in 'The Irishman'. Bong also thanked Quentin Tarantino for introducing US to his films. "When people in the U.S. were not familiar with my films, Quentin always put my films on his list. He's here, thank you so much. Quentin, I love you" "And Todd and Sam, great directors that I admire. If the Academy allows, I would like to get a Texas chainsaw, split the award into five and share it with all of you," the director added as he thanked his fellow nominees. Here's the full speech and the video of his winning moment. "Thank you. After winning best international feature, I thought I was done for the day and was ready to relax. Thank you so much. When I was young and studying cinema, there was a saying that I carved deep into my heart, which is that 'the most personal is the most creative.' That quote is from our great Martin Scorsese. When I was in school, I studied Martin Scorsese's films. Just to be nominated was a huge honor. I never thought I would win. When people in the U.S. were not familiar with my films, Quentin always put my films on his list. He's here, thank you so much. Quentin, I love you. And Todd and Sam, great directors that I admire. If the Academy allows, I would like to get a Texas chainsaw, split the award into five and share it with all of you. Thank you. I will drink until next morning, thank you." #Oscars Moment: Bong Joon Ho accepts the Oscar for Best Directing for @ParasiteMovie. pic.twitter.com/b7t6bYGdzw — The Academy (@TheAcademy) February 10, 2020 × 'Parasite' is also the first film to have won in both best international feature and best picture category at the Oscars. Bong Joon-ho also was the co-winner in the best screenplay category. Natalie Portman honours women directors snubbed by The Academy via her Oscars gown In Pictures: See all the head-turning appearances at Oscars red carpet.

Watch: Bong Joon-ho pays fitting tribute to Martin Scorsese in his winning speech at Oscars

Chinese-American director Lulu Wang's movie 'The Farewell' won the top prize at the Independent Spirit Awards on Saturday, while Adam Sandler was named best actor and made fun of his exclusion from Sunday`s Oscars.&nbsp;

Oscars 2020:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-news-oscars-2020-heres-the-full-list-of-nominees-274061"> Here's the full list of nominees</a> 
 
Sandler was named best actor for playing a jeweler addicted to gambling in 'Uncut Gems',&nbsp;and brothers Josh and Benny Safdie were chosen best directors for the film.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kirk-douglas-to-be-included-in-oscars-in-memoriam-as-a-last-minute-addition-279413" hreflang="en">Kirk Douglas to be included in Oscars 'In Memoriam' as a last-minute addition</a> 
 
"A few weeks back when I was quote, unquote, snubbed by the academy, it reminded me when I briefly attended high school and was overlooked for the coveted yearbook superlative category best looking," Sandler said. 
 
&nbsp;<img alt="adam" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="86d35fde-059a-4394-b3ac-2dc0e9ccc58c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2884%29_2.jpg" /> 
 
Calling the Oscar nominees "feather-haired douchebags," Sandler quipped; "Their handsome good looks will fade in time, while our independent personalities will shine on forever."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-the-academy-rejects-pregnancy-ad-for-being-too-graphic-279186">Oscars 2020 rejects pregnancy ad for being 'too graphic'</a> 
 
The Spirit Awards honor independent films made for under $20 million. Many of the nominees were women and actors or directors of color, while just one of the actors nominated for an Oscar is non-white.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-from-year-1969-to-2019-see-the-most-shocking-outfits-of-the-red-carpet-277841">The most shocking outfits on the Oscars red carpet over the years</a> 
 
'The Farewell',&nbsp;featuring an all-Asian cast and filmed in both Mandarin and English, was named the best feature film.

<img alt="adam and his brothers" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1eccd26d-5a15-46ac-9d6c-4b63b1b4b96f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2883%29_0.jpg" /> 
 
Wang, whose film was also overlooked at the Oscars, referred to the all-male Oscar director race and the debate over the difficulties women face in getting recognized in show business. 
 
"You don't have to encourage women. There are lots of women making films and who want to make films," Wang said. "What women need is jobs. Just give them the freakin` jobs. Give them the money." 
 
Chinese star Zhao Shuzhen, 85, won the best-supporting actress trophy for her role in 'The Farewell'&nbsp;as a grandmother whose family chooses to conceal from her that she has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. 
 
Wang said Zhao was unable to make it to Saturday's ceremony in the California beach city of Santa Monica because of the coronavirus travel restrictions in China. 
 
Renee Zellweger, who has dominated Hollywood`s awards season for her portrayal of singer Judy Garland, was named best actress for 'Judy'. She is seen as the favorite to take home the Oscar on Sunday. 
 
"I know this is a reflection of the resounding affection for Judy Garland and her legacy," Zellweger said. 
 
South Korean social satire "Parasite," which is expected to do well at the Academy Awards on Sunday, was voted best international film.

Chinese-American director Lulu Wang's movie 'The Farewell' won the top prize at the Independent Spirit Awards on Saturday, while Adam Sandler was named best actor and made fun of his exclusion from Sunday`s Oscars.

Chinese-American director Lulu Wang's movie 'The Farewell' won the top prize at the Independent Spirit Awards on Saturday, while Adam Sandler was named best actor and made fun of his exclusion from Sunday`s Oscars. Oscars 2020: Here's the full list of nominees Sandler was named best actor for playing a jeweler addicted to gambling in 'Uncut Gems', and brothers Josh and Benny Safdie were chosen best directors for the film. Also read: Kirk Douglas to be included in Oscars 'In Memoriam' as a last-minute addition "A few weeks back when I was quote, unquote, snubbed by the academy, it reminded me when I briefly attended high school and was overlooked for the coveted yearbook superlative category best looking," Sandler said. Calling the Oscar nominees "feather-haired douchebags," Sandler quipped; "Their handsome good looks will fade in time, while our independent personalities will shine on forever." Also read: Oscars 2020 rejects pregnancy ad for being 'too graphic' The Spirit Awards honor independent films made for under $20 million. Many of the nominees were women and actors or directors of color, while just one of the actors nominated for an Oscar is non-white. In pics: The most shocking outfits on the Oscars red carpet over the years 'The Farewell', featuring an all-Asian cast and filmed in both Mandarin and English, was named the best feature film. Wang, whose film was also overlooked at the Oscars, referred to the all-male Oscar director race and the debate over the difficulties women face in getting recognized in show business. "You don't have to encourage women. There are lots of women making films and who want to make films," Wang said. "What women need is jobs. Just give them the freakin` jobs. Give them the money." Chinese star Zhao Shuzhen, 85, won the best-supporting actress trophy for her role in 'The Farewell' as a grandmother whose family chooses to conceal from her that she has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. Wang said Zhao was unable to make it to Saturday's ceremony in the California beach city of Santa Monica because of the coronavirus travel restrictions in China. Renee Zellweger, who has dominated Hollywood`s awards season for her portrayal of singer Judy Garland, was named best actress for 'Judy'. She is seen as the favorite to take home the Oscar on Sunday. "I know this is a reflection of the resounding affection for Judy Garland and her legacy," Zellweger said. South Korean social satire "Parasite," which is expected to do well at the Academy Awards on Sunday, was voted best international film.

Adam Sandler laughs off Oscar snub as he wins indie acting prize

From Brad Pitt to Billy Porter, here is who to watch out for at Oscars 2020

The 18th&nbsp;edition Oscars&nbsp;Night Before is returning, a&nbsp; champagne-soaked event that hosts&nbsp;all top celebrities of the Hollywood fraternity.

The mega event will be held a night before the main gala night at the Fox Studios on Saturday and is known to benefit the Motion Picture &amp; Television Fund.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/adam-sandler-laughs-off-oscar-snub-as-he-wins-indie-acting-prize-279549">Adam Sandler laughs off Oscar snub as he wins indie acting prize</a> 
 
According to news agency&nbsp;stars like Scarlett Johansson, Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lopez, and Cynthia Erivo as the host's&nbsp;committee members.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-did-the-academy-announce-the-winners-list-on-twitter-by-mistake-278681" hreflang="en">&nbsp;Did the Academy by mistake announce the winners list on Twitter?</a> 
 
The host committee for the 18th party comprises of nominees and winners from last year's award ceremony as well as the nominees of this year. The committee features Amy Adams and Darren Le Gallo, Octavia Spencer, Stella, and Anthony Hopkins, Tom Hanks, Laura Dern among others.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-from-joker-to-parasite-heres-how-you-can-watch-all-best-film-nominees-in-india-277488">From Joker to Parasite, here's how you can watch all Best Film nominees in India</a>

The funds that will be raised at the party will be used for supporting the industry colleagues and friends that will benefit from the MPTF's charitable services and programs like financial crisis counseling, financial assistance, retirement facility and caregiving support in the Woodland Hills which is the "home" to film and television veterans. 
 
Around $&nbsp;5 million were raised after last year's event. Jeffrey Katzenberg serves as chairman of the MPTF Foundation.

The 18th edition Oscars Night Before is returning, a champagne-soaked event that hosts all top celebrities of the Hollywood fraternity. The mega event will be held a night before the main gala night at the Fox Studios on Saturday and is known to benefit the Motion Picture & Television Fund.

The 18th edition Oscars Night Before is returning, a champagne-soaked event that hosts all top celebrities of the Hollywood fraternity. The mega event will be held a night before the main gala night at the Fox Studios on Saturday and is known to benefit the Motion Picture & Television Fund. Also read: Adam Sandler laughs off Oscar snub as he wins indie acting prize According to news agency stars like Scarlett Johansson, Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lopez, and Cynthia Erivo as the host's committee members. Also read: Did the Academy by mistake announce the winners list on Twitter? The host committee for the 18th party comprises of nominees and winners from last year's award ceremony as well as the nominees of this year. The committee features Amy Adams and Darren Le Gallo, Octavia Spencer, Stella, and Anthony Hopkins, Tom Hanks, Laura Dern among others. In pics: From Joker to Parasite, here's how you can watch all Best Film nominees in India The funds that will be raised at the party will be used for supporting the industry colleagues and friends that will benefit from the MPTF's charitable services and programs like financial crisis counseling, financial assistance, retirement facility and caregiving support in the Woodland Hills which is the "home" to film and television veterans. Around $ 5 million were raised after last year's event. Jeffrey Katzenberg serves as chairman of the MPTF Foundation.

Oscars 'Night Before' party to lighten up with A-list celebrity hosts

Designer&nbsp;Tom&nbsp;Ford, a favorite of Hollywood's top stars, helped kick off&nbsp;Oscar&nbsp;weekend&nbsp;on Friday night moving&nbsp;his&nbsp;runway show featuring looks for fall 2020 to southern California for one of the fashion season's most anticipated events.

With a star-laden front row boasting Renee Zellweger, Jennifer Lopez and Miley Cyrus,&nbsp;Ford&nbsp;showed an extensive collection of women's and men's wear rendered in sultry, sensuous fabrics such as black lace and deep shades of satin.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kirk-douglas-to-be-included-in-oscars-in-memoriam-as-a-last-minute-addition-279413">&nbsp;Kirk Douglas to be included in Oscars 'In Memoriam' as a last-minute addition</a>

Sticking mostly to solids but for a few florals and animal prints, the famed designer's collection recalled the free-spirited, casual looks of the late 1960s and early 1970s, in a possible nod to the hit film, 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood'.&nbsp;

<img alt="tom ford" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="85711f0a-dc36-42ff-84ac-ef8d7698e39c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2879%29_1.jpg" />

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-92nd-academy-awards-is-all-set-for-an-all-white-ceremony-dominated-by-the-men-27">Quentin Tarantino film </a>set in the summer of 1969 is a strong contender at Sunday's Academy Awards and is expected to bring A-list actor Brad Pitt&nbsp;his&nbsp;first&nbsp;Oscar. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/hollywood-news-2020-oscars-nominations-best-actress-274038">Zellweger is also favored to win</a> for her star turn as Judy Garland in 'Judy'.

<img alt="Oscars weeknd" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d2debc1e-55d6-42d7-80ac-e88bb31442c2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2880%29_1.jpg" />

New York's semi-annual fashion week kicked off on Thursday, but with an earlier-than-usual date of Feb. 9, Hollywood's Academy Awards threaten to divert at least some of the limelight - and star power - from the New York&nbsp;shows.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-hollywood-power-couples-that-slayed-at-the-red-carpet-279112">Hollywood&nbsp;power couples that&nbsp;slayed at&nbsp;Oscars&nbsp;red carpet</a>

Ford, who is also head of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), is no stranger to the film world himself.

Oscars 2020: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-nominees-to-get-lavish-gifts-worth-of-215000-278302">Find out what's inside $215,000 gift bag of nominees this year</a>

Besides dressing many of Hollywood's top actors and actresses for the red carpet, he has directed films 'A Single Man' and 'Nocturnal Animals'.

On Friday night&nbsp;Ford&nbsp;dressed female and male models in wide lapelled jackets topping unstructured trousers.

In keeping with the late 60s vibe, blazers were worn over t-shirts and paired with patchwork denim or drawstring pants. Loose-fitting women's tops rendered in natural fibers were sleeveless and seemingly carefree.

For men, there were&nbsp;sexy&nbsp;satin or suede suits in colors popular 50 years ago such as deep rust or wine. The hippy esthetic even got a nod via a lavender print jacket.

Ford&nbsp;ended the show, which was also attended by baseball superstar Alex Rodriguez and actress Kate Hudson, with a series of gowns that suggested Bohemian chic, some backless, others featuring flowing black lace or tiered fringe.

Designer Tom Ford, a favorite of Hollywood's top stars, helped kick off Oscar weekend on Friday night moving his runway show featuring looks for fall 2020 to southern California for one of the fashion season's most anticipated events.

Designer Tom Ford, a favorite of Hollywood's top stars, helped kick off Oscar weekend on Friday night moving his runway show featuring looks for fall 2020 to southern California for one of the fashion season's most anticipated events. With a star-laden front row boasting Renee Zellweger, Jennifer Lopez and Miley Cyrus, Ford showed an extensive collection of women's and men's wear rendered in sultry, sensuous fabrics such as black lace and deep shades of satin. Also read: Kirk Douglas to be included in Oscars 'In Memoriam' as a last-minute addition Sticking mostly to solids but for a few florals and animal prints, the famed designer's collection recalled the free-spirited, casual looks of the late 1960s and early 1970s, in a possible nod to the hit film, 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood'. The Quentin Tarantino film set in the summer of 1969 is a strong contender at Sunday's Academy Awards and is expected to bring A-list actor Brad Pitt his first Oscar. Zellweger is also favored to win for her star turn as Judy Garland in 'Judy'. New York's semi-annual fashion week kicked off on Thursday, but with an earlier-than-usual date of Feb. 9, Hollywood's Academy Awards threaten to divert at least some of the limelight - and star power - from the New York shows. In pics: Hollywood power couples that slayed at Oscars red carpet Ford, who is also head of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), is no stranger to the film world himself. Oscars 2020: Find out what's inside $215,000 gift bag of nominees this year Besides dressing many of Hollywood's top actors and actresses for the red carpet, he has directed films 'A Single Man' and 'Nocturnal Animals'. On Friday night Ford dressed female and male models in wide lapelled jackets topping unstructured trousers. In keeping with the late 60s vibe, blazers were worn over t-shirts and paired with patchwork denim or drawstring pants. Loose-fitting women's tops rendered in natural fibers were sleeveless and seemingly carefree. For men, there were sexy satin or suede suits in colors popular 50 years ago such as deep rust or wine. The hippy esthetic even got a nod via a lavender print jacket. Ford ended the show, which was also attended by baseball superstar Alex Rodriguez and actress Kate Hudson, with a series of gowns that suggested Bohemian chic, some backless, others featuring flowing black lace or tiered fringe.

Before Oscars, star-laden Tom Ford's fashion show in Los Angeles

Hollywood's Golden age star Kirk Douglas&nbsp;will be included in the 'In Memoriam' section of this year's Academy Awards.&nbsp; 
 
His <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-legend-kirk-douglas-dead-at-278947">demise</a> at the age of 103 on Wednesday&nbsp;led to overwhelming tributes from the Hollywood film fraternity. 
 
As per news agency, the tributes resulted in end moment edits to the 'in memoriam' package, which had been completed earlier but was re-edited to incorporate the screen icon.

Also, see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kirk-douglas-a-star-of-hollywoods-golden-age-279030#jewish-boy-in-america-279003">Kirk Douglas no more at 103: Meet the star of Hollywood's Golden Age</a> 
 
However, it is not clear yet if the Oscars will have any other tributes to one of the golden era Hollywood members. Given Douglas's&nbsp;stature in the industry, it didn't come as a surprise that the Academy modified then&nbsp;Memoriam&nbsp;section to include the veteran actor. But, in the past, the organization has faced blowback for failing to include major filmmakers and performers in its list of the departed. 
 
<img alt="Kirk Douglas" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="079bc8cd-3cbe-403b-bb31-317712de7e39" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2838%29_4.jpg" /> 
 
In 2019, the Oscars were criticized for ignoring 'Singin&nbsp;in the Rain'&nbsp;director Stanley Donen, Oscar-nominee Sondra Locke, and Oscar-nominee Carol Channing in the 'In Memoriam'&nbsp;reel. 
 
Kirk Douglas became a leading box-office star in the 50s and 60s, primarily known for serious dramas, westerns, and war films, including his first starring role in the 1960 film 'Spartacus'. Douglas got&nbsp;three Oscar nominations in his lifetime and an honorary Academy Award for his illustrious career.

He is also credited with helping to end the Hollywood Black List when he hired Dalton Trumbo to write the screenplay for 'Spartacus'.&nbsp;

Hollywood's Golden age star Kirk Douglas will be included in the 'In Memoriam' section of this year's Academy Awards. His demise at the age of 103 on Wednesday led to overwhelming tributes from the Hollywood film fraternity.

Hollywood's Golden age star Kirk Douglas will be included in the 'In Memoriam' section of this year's Academy Awards. His demise at the age of 103 on Wednesday led to overwhelming tributes from the Hollywood film fraternity. As per news agency, the tributes resulted in end moment edits to the 'in memoriam' package, which had been completed earlier but was re-edited to incorporate the screen icon. Also, see Kirk Douglas no more at 103: Meet the star of Hollywood's Golden Age However, it is not clear yet if the Oscars will have any other tributes to one of the golden era Hollywood members. Given Douglas's stature in the industry, it didn't come as a surprise that the Academy modified then Memoriam section to include the veteran actor. But, in the past, the organization has faced blowback for failing to include major filmmakers and performers in its list of the departed. In 2019, the Oscars were criticized for ignoring 'Singin in the Rain' director Stanley Donen, Oscar-nominee Sondra Locke, and Oscar-nominee Carol Channing in the 'In Memoriam' reel. Kirk Douglas became a leading box-office star in the 50s and 60s, primarily known for serious dramas, westerns, and war films, including his first starring role in the 1960 film 'Spartacus'. Douglas got three Oscar nominations in his lifetime and an honorary Academy Award for his illustrious career. He is also credited with helping to end the Hollywood Black List when he hired Dalton Trumbo to write the screenplay for 'Spartacus'.

Kirk Douglas to be included in Oscars 'In Memoriam' as a last-minute addition

A new ad that portrays motherhood as you've never seen it before is now in the middle of a controversy as reports came out that it has been rejected by The Academy from being showcased during&nbsp;the Oscars 2020 ceremony.

Frida Mom, a US brand that produces specialised products for postpartum recovery, wanted to show a raw, no-filter representation of what mothers go through after giving birth. It features&nbsp;mesh underwear and oversized pads for postpartum bleeding.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-92nd-academy-awards-is-all-set-for-an-all-white-ceremony-dominated-by-the-men-278438">Also read:&nbsp;92nd Academy Awards is all set for an all-white ceremony dominated by the men</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-nominees-to-get-lavish-gifts-worth-of-215000-278302">Oscars 2020: Find out what's inside $215,000 gift bag of nominees this year</a> 
 
The brand claims their ad was banned by The Oscars US broadcast rights holder ABC for being "too graphic" and showing "partial nudity and product demonstration".

The 60-second ad opens with the sound of a crying baby while a mother struggles to get herself out of bed as her postpartum belly pokes out from her pyjama top.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3GePXGfRP04" width="560"></iframe>

The child's mother is shown to be wearing an adult diaper. The new mum makes her way to the bathroom where she is seen to be in physical pain, dealing&nbsp;with the aftermath of childbirth.

"It is just a raw and honest emotionally-driven short story showing women what to expect," sais&nbsp;Frida CEO Chelsea Hirschhorn defending it. "Knowledge is confidence...and there's a deep fear in not knowing what to expect."&nbsp;

They also cited ABC's rules against running ads about political candidates and positions, religious or faith-based messages and positions, guns, gun shows, ammunition, feminine hygiene products, adult diapers, condoms, or hemorrhoid remedies during the broadcast.

It finishes with the message:&nbsp;"postpartum recovery doesn’t have to be this hard" before panning to a number of Frida Mom products.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-hollywood-power-couples-that-slayed-at-the-red-carpet-279112">In Pictures:&nbsp;Oscars throwback: Hollywood power couples that slayed at the red carpet&nbsp;</a>

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-from-year-1969-to-2019-see-the-most-shocking-outfits-of-the-red-carpet-277841" hreflang="en">Oscars: The most shocking outfits on the red carpet over the years</a></h2>

A new ad that portrays motherhood as you've never seen it before is now in the middle of a controversy as reports came out that it has been rejected by The Academy from being showcased during the Oscars 2020 ceremony.

A new ad that portrays motherhood as you've never seen it before is now in the middle of a controversy as reports came out that it has been rejected by The Academy from being showcased during the Oscars 2020 ceremony. Frida Mom, a US brand that produces specialised products for postpartum recovery, wanted to show a raw, no-filter representation of what mothers go through after giving birth. It features mesh underwear and oversized pads for postpartum bleeding. Also read: 92nd Academy Awards is all set for an all-white ceremony dominated by the men Oscars 2020: Find out what's inside $215,000 gift bag of nominees this year The brand claims their ad was banned by The Oscars US broadcast rights holder ABC for being "too graphic" and showing "partial nudity and product demonstration". The 60-second ad opens with the sound of a crying baby while a mother struggles to get herself out of bed as her postpartum belly pokes out from her pyjama top. The child's mother is shown to be wearing an adult diaper. The new mum makes her way to the bathroom where she is seen to be in physical pain, dealing with the aftermath of childbirth. "It is just a raw and honest emotionally-driven short story showing women what to expect," sais Frida CEO Chelsea Hirschhorn defending it. "Knowledge is confidence...and there's a deep fear in not knowing what to expect." They also cited ABC's rules against running ads about political candidates and positions, religious or faith-based messages and positions, guns, gun shows, ammunition, feminine hygiene products, adult diapers, condoms, or hemorrhoid remedies during the broadcast. It finishes with the message: "postpartum recovery doesn’t have to be this hard" before panning to a number of Frida Mom products. In Pictures: Oscars throwback: Hollywood power couples that slayed at the red carpet Oscars: The most shocking outfits on the red carpet over the years

Oscars 2020: The Academy rejects pregnancy ad for being 'too graphic'

An Oscar award is probably the nearest thing to a 'Holy Grail' for cinema.

But, did you know why an award given by the Academy Of Motion Picture Arts &amp; Sciences is called an Oscar?

I'm asking only because I didn't know it for a long time. And found out recently enough to be embarrassed about it.&nbsp;

&nbsp;An official who worked there thought the golden trophy looked like her Uncle Oscar.

That's all it took. And now it gets called that more than 'The Academy Award'.

In 2013, the Academy Awards were officially rebranded as The Oscars.

It is a fickle world I tell you. Some things stick just like that. Forever. And some things just don't. No matter what you do.

Don't ever expect to read too much into why things happen.

If you're wondering why I am on this seemingly meaningless rant. I'd say I have my reasons.

But then it's purely up to you to give in to believing it. Just like watching movies. The film has its own reasons to be made. It's whether you are able to suspend disbelief while watching it or not.

For those still interested and reading.

I'm ranting because I find it unfair to reduce a good year of many very good films and a few great ones to just the big winners on the Oscar night.

Oscars are the finale of the awards season. Not all of it. I don't think even Oscar nominees that don't end up winning an award get their due.

It's always about the films that win Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor and Best Actress. Extend that to Best Supporting Actor and Actress at best.

That's it. An inordinately less number of films soak up all the attention.

And God forbid, if there's a year of one movie sweeping Oscars across categories. Literally everything that got nominated along with 'Titanic' sank.

Except that those kind of big sweeps are usually unquestioned. 11 Oscars. The only others are Ben-Hur and 'The Lord Of the Rings: The Return of The King'. With the latter being the only film to win everything it was nominated for.

But otherwise. The debate is always about whether these films were worth the jury creating instant global sensations out of them.

The common refrain invariably is, aren't all Oscar winners over-rated?

Well yes. Sometimes. Okay, quite a few times. But one thing you can be certain about. All the nominees are at the least, good films. At most, all-time classics.

And then there are films that were not even nominated for a single Oscar. And yet have done the rounds in the awards circuit this season. They even boast of box-office success or being released on Netflix. Films that have been watched and appreciated. And also have high rotten tomatoes score to boot.

I feel for them. Some of them make for great cult films.

Like this year's 'Dolemite Is My Name'. One of my personal favourites that made me laugh my guts out. 
 
<img alt="Dolemite Is My Name " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d8ccb79-a85a-4fb8-9611-984b1fc16259" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/dolemite.jpg" />

Eddie Murphy in a biopic about a 1970s stand up comedian who made cult movies from the blaxploitation era. And is referred to as the godfather of rap.

Eddie was even nominated for the Best Actor Golden Globe in the Comedy/Musical category. But not at the Oscars.

A film made with great love and affection to its subject. 'Dolemite is My Name' is one of those movies where it feels like everyone involved had a ball working on it.

Most importantly for us, it's produced by and released on Netflix.

Then there are other films that even make for great family viewing.

Like this year's 'The Farwell'. A beautiful tale of a Chinese family uniting to say their last goodbye to the grandmother who is about to pass away. Except that they don't want her to know about it. And so they pretend that they've all come home together for a wedding. 
 
<img alt="The Farewell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bbe95ff4-755c-48ed-baeb-0a465b3a1306" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/farewell.jpg" />

This heartwarming tear-jerker is based on its woman director Lulu Wang's life experiences.

Lead star Awkwafina even won the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Comedy/Musical. And the film was a box office hit in America.

But both she and the film are a no show at the Oscars.

In fact, some of the non-nominated films can surprise you with things that you wouldn't have ever thought of.

Like comic legend Adam Sandler as the leading man in a seriously tense thriller with dark unsettling undertones.

Here's an actor whose name itself screams comedy, experimenting in the truest sense. And pulling it off. And ending up as one of the most under-rated performances. I feel for him. He was in the running for a Best Actor nomination.

'Uncut Gems' by Safdie brothers is about a charismatic Jewish-American diamond district jeweller, a gambling addict, navigating shady deals and dire consequences. 
 
<img alt="Uncut Gems" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e2bfe4ba-c0ee-4cba-bfa6-97c7a2fd39c1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/uncutgems.jpg" />

And it, unfortunately, becomes the almost undiscovered gem.

So let all the debates rage on about the winners.

The real joy is in watching these films that I'd like to call - The Dark Knights of the Oscars.

And then, of course, showing off how you've picked out the truly deserving ones. But please don't. I do not endorse that type of behaviour.

Watch them because they are so good, that they can take the snubbing from the Oscars. And still, make movie history of their own.

They exist in the shadows to show the world what light is. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

An Oscar award is probably the nearest thing to a 'Holy Grail' for cinema. But, did you know why an award given by the Academy Of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences is called an Oscar?

An Oscar award is probably the nearest thing to a 'Holy Grail' for cinema. But, did you know why an award given by the Academy Of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences is called an Oscar? I'm asking only because I didn't know it for a long time. And found out recently enough to be embarrassed about it. An official who worked there thought the golden trophy looked like her Uncle Oscar. That's all it took. And now it gets called that more than 'The Academy Award'. In 2013, the Academy Awards were officially rebranded as The Oscars. It is a fickle world I tell you. Some things stick just like that. Forever. And some things just don't. No matter what you do. Don't ever expect to read too much into why things happen. If you're wondering why I am on this seemingly meaningless rant. I'd say I have my reasons. But then it's purely up to you to give in to believing it. Just like watching movies. The film has its own reasons to be made. It's whether you are able to suspend disbelief while watching it or not. For those still interested and reading. I'm ranting because I find it unfair to reduce a good year of many very good films and a few great ones to just the big winners on the Oscar night. Oscars are the finale of the awards season. Not all of it. I don't think even Oscar nominees that don't end up winning an award get their due. It's always about the films that win Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor and Best Actress. Extend that to Best Supporting Actor and Actress at best. That's it. An inordinately less number of films soak up all the attention. And God forbid, if there's a year of one movie sweeping Oscars across categories. Literally everything that got nominated along with 'Titanic' sank. Except that those kind of big sweeps are usually unquestioned. 11 Oscars. The only others are Ben-Hur and 'The Lord Of the Rings: The Return of The King'. With the latter being the only film to win everything it was nominated for. But otherwise. The debate is always about whether these films were worth the jury creating instant global sensations out of them. The common refrain invariably is, aren't all Oscar winners over-rated? Well yes. Sometimes. Okay, quite a few times. But one thing you can be certain about. All the nominees are at the least, good films. At most, all-time classics. And then there are films that were not even nominated for a single Oscar. And yet have done the rounds in the awards circuit this season. They even boast of box-office success or being released on Netflix. Films that have been watched and appreciated. And also have high rotten tomatoes score to boot. I feel for them. Some of them make for great cult films. Like this year's 'Dolemite Is My Name'. One of my personal favourites that made me laugh my guts out. Eddie Murphy in a biopic about a 1970s stand up comedian who made cult movies from the blaxploitation era. And is referred to as the godfather of rap. Eddie was even nominated for the Best Actor Golden Globe in the Comedy/Musical category. But not at the Oscars. A film made with great love and affection to its subject. 'Dolemite is My Name' is one of those movies where it feels like everyone involved had a ball working on it. Most importantly for us, it's produced by and released on Netflix. Then there are other films that even make for great family viewing. Like this year's 'The Farwell'. A beautiful tale of a Chinese family uniting to say their last goodbye to the grandmother who is about to pass away. Except that they don't want her to know about it. And so they pretend that they've all come home together for a wedding. This heartwarming tear-jerker is based on its woman director Lulu Wang's life experiences. Lead star Awkwafina even won the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Comedy/Musical. And the film was a box office hit in America. But both she and the film are a no show at the Oscars. In fact, some of the non-nominated films can surprise you with things that you wouldn't have ever thought of. Like comic legend Adam Sandler as the leading man in a seriously tense thriller with dark unsettling undertones. Here's an actor whose name itself screams comedy, experimenting in the truest sense. And pulling it off. And ending up as one of the most under-rated performances. I feel for him. He was in the running for a Best Actor nomination. 'Uncut Gems' by Safdie brothers is about a charismatic Jewish-American diamond district jeweller, a gambling addict, navigating shady deals and dire consequences. And it, unfortunately, becomes the almost undiscovered gem. So let all the debates rage on about the winners. The real joy is in watching these films that I'd like to call - The Dark Knights of the Oscars. And then, of course, showing off how you've picked out the truly deserving ones. But please don't. I do not endorse that type of behaviour. Watch them because they are so good, that they can take the snubbing from the Oscars. And still, make movie history of their own. They exist in the shadows to show the world what light is. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Oscars 2020: It's not always about the winners

The 18th year of Oscars' 'Night Before'&nbsp;is returning with a bang with the creme de la creme of the Hollywood film fraternity scheduled to attend the invite-only event on coming Saturday. 
 
The exclusive gala evening on will benefit the Motion Picture &amp; Television Fund. As per the news agency, Leonardo DiCaprio, Cynthia Erivo, Scarlett Johansson and Jennifer Lopez are among the top celebrities who have signed up as host committee members for this year's event.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/oscars-2020-let-there-be-light-279028">Some films get snubbed by the Oscars and yet create history of their own</a> 
 
The host committee for this year's party comprises of winners and nominees from the past year's award ceremony along with the present year's nominees. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-did-the-academy-announce-the-winners-list-on-twitter-by-mistake-278681">Did the Academy by mistake announce the winners list on Twitter?</a> 
 
The committee features Amy Adams and Darren Le Gallo, Octavia Spencer, Stella, and Anthony Hopkins, Tom Hanks, Laura Dern among others. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-news-this-is-why-we-think-sam-mendes-1917-is-front-runner-for-oscars-best-film-275491">This is why we think Sam Mendes' '1917' is front runner for Oscars Best Film</a> 
 
The funds raised on the night of the party will be used to support industry colleagues and friends who benefit from MPTF's charitable programs and services such as financial assistance, crisis counseling, caregiving support and the retirement facility in Woodland Hills that is "home" to television and film veterans alike. 
 
Last year's event raised $5 million. Jeffrey Katzenberg serves as chairman of the MPTF Foundation. The prestigious dinner party, that has been a constant for the past 18 years on the Saturday night before the Oscars, will be held at Fox Studios this time.&nbsp;

The 18th year of Oscars' 'Night Before' is returning with a bang with the creme de la creme of the Hollywood film fraternity scheduled to attend the invite-only event on coming Saturday.

The 18th year of Oscars' 'Night Before' is returning with a bang with the creme de la creme of the Hollywood film fraternity scheduled to attend the invite-only event on coming Saturday. The exclusive gala evening on will benefit the Motion Picture & Television Fund. As per the news agency, Leonardo DiCaprio, Cynthia Erivo, Scarlett Johansson and Jennifer Lopez are among the top celebrities who have signed up as host committee members for this year's event. Also read: Some films get snubbed by the Oscars and yet create history of their own The host committee for this year's party comprises of winners and nominees from the past year's award ceremony along with the present year's nominees. Also read: Did the Academy by mistake announce the winners list on Twitter? The committee features Amy Adams and Darren Le Gallo, Octavia Spencer, Stella, and Anthony Hopkins, Tom Hanks, Laura Dern among others. Also read: This is why we think Sam Mendes' '1917' is front runner for Oscars Best Film The funds raised on the night of the party will be used to support industry colleagues and friends who benefit from MPTF's charitable programs and services such as financial assistance, crisis counseling, caregiving support and the retirement facility in Woodland Hills that is "home" to television and film veterans alike. Last year's event raised $5 million. Jeffrey Katzenberg serves as chairman of the MPTF Foundation. The prestigious dinner party, that has been a constant for the past 18 years on the Saturday night before the Oscars, will be held at Fox Studios this time.

Oscar's 'Night Before' party to glisten with a-list celebrity hosts

Oscars 2020: From Joker to Parasite, here's how you can watch all Best Film nominees in India

A return to "extravagance" is what one fashion stylist is predicting when Hollywood stars parade the red carpet at the Oscars on Sunday.

"There were years where it was minimal. And, you know, people were wearing tuxedos, suits and blacks and that's always a classic," said New York-based stylist Katie Keim.

But this year Keim said she expects to see "extravagance ... color, shape, sequins."

Certainly, the right look for the Oscars can earn a celebrity ton of attention - both good and bad.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-did-the-academy-announce-the-winners-list-on-twitter-by-mistake-278681">Also read:&nbsp;Oscars 2020: Did the Academy by mistake announce the winners list on Twitter?</a>

Vibrant colors and the mixing of hues such as red and pink are trends Keim is expecting to see continue in this year's award season, along with exaggerated silhouettes and sequins.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-news-oscars-2020-heres-the-full-list-of-nominees-274061">Here's the full list of nominees</a>

"Shape is a huge one, and I'm always looking for something really interesting and ornate when I pull dresses for my clients," Keim said.

"It's going to be all over the place, sequins, embellishment, beading...think of the Roaring Twenties and 100 hundred years later."

As for the stars to watch, Keim listed the entire star-studded cast of 'Little Women', which includes Saoirse Ronan and Florence Pugh, as her most anticipated.

"All those girls are exciting and they look great on the red carpet," she said.

Keim said the Oscars red carpet merges the best of fashion and the best in film.

"And that makes the stakes a little bit higher and everybody kind of goes for it without jumping over the cliff and going too far," Keim said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-21-movies-you-should-watch-before-the-awards-night-273034">Oscars 2020: 21 movies you should watch before the awards night</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-from-joker-to-parasite-heres-how-you-can-watch-all-best-film-nominees-in-india-277488">From Joker to Parasite, here's how you can watch all Best Film nominees in India</a>

A return to "extravagance" is what one fashion stylist is predicting when Hollywood stars parade the red carpet at the Oscars on Sunday. "There were years where it was minimal.

A return to "extravagance" is what one fashion stylist is predicting when Hollywood stars parade the red carpet at the Oscars on Sunday. "There were years where it was minimal. And, you know, people were wearing tuxedos, suits and blacks and that's always a classic," said New York-based stylist Katie Keim. But this year Keim said she expects to see "extravagance ... color, shape, sequins." Certainly, the right look for the Oscars can earn a celebrity ton of attention - both good and bad. Also read: Oscars 2020: Did the Academy by mistake announce the winners list on Twitter? Vibrant colors and the mixing of hues such as red and pink are trends Keim is expecting to see continue in this year's award season, along with exaggerated silhouettes and sequins. Here's the full list of nominees "Shape is a huge one, and I'm always looking for something really interesting and ornate when I pull dresses for my clients," Keim said. "It's going to be all over the place, sequins, embellishment, beading...think of the Roaring Twenties and 100 hundred years later." As for the stars to watch, Keim listed the entire star-studded cast of 'Little Women', which includes Saoirse Ronan and Florence Pugh, as her most anticipated. "All those girls are exciting and they look great on the red carpet," she said. Keim said the Oscars red carpet merges the best of fashion and the best in film. "And that makes the stakes a little bit higher and everybody kind of goes for it without jumping over the cliff and going too far," Keim said. Oscars 2020: 21 movies you should watch before the awards night From Joker to Parasite, here's how you can watch all Best Film nominees in India

Oscars 2020 red carpet: Stylist predicts return to 'extravagance'

Among the top 5 Hollywood news today is The Academy&nbsp;tweeting&nbsp;its predictions which made fans believe that the Academy had inadvertently let out the winners list. Other news that were in buzz today was the jurors in Harvey Weinstein`s New York rape trial being shown naked photographs of the former Hollywood producer on Tuesday over his lawyers` objections.

See our top 5 picks for the day:

Oscars 2020: Did the Academy by mistake announce the winners list on Twitter?

The official Twitter handle of the Academy seemed to have tweeted its predictions which made fans believe that the Academy had inadvertently let out the winners list.&nbsp;The Academy had in fact invited fans to make their own Oscar predictions- and due to a technical glitch- a prediction list got tweeted from the official handle of the Oscars!

Read in full:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-did-the-academy-announce-the-winners-list-on-twitter-by-mistake-278681">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-did-the-academy-announce-the-winners-list-on-twitter-by-mistake-278681</a>

Former K-pop star Seungri indicted for prostitution laws violation may face military court

It’s never a dull day in the lives of Korean pop stars. In a follow up to Korean pop star having been charged with South Korea’s anti-prostitution law, he now may have to join the country’s army and face trial in a military court.

Read in full:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/celebrity-news-former-k-pop-star-seungri-indicted-for-prostitution-laws-violation-may-face-military-court-278826">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/celebrity-news-former-k-pop-star-seungri-indicted-for-prostitution-laws-violation-may-face-military-court-278826</a>

'Dont run off to Canada': Madonna offers her New York apartment to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's exit from the royal family has got everyone talking- including Madonna! The Pop diva has now offered to sublet her New York apartment to the couple and said that they should not live in Canada.&nbsp;

Read in full:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/celebrity-news-madonna-offers-to-sublet-her-new-york-apartment-to-prince-harry-and-meghan-markle-278727">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/celebrity-news-madonna-offers-to-sublet-her-new-york-apartment-to-prince-harry-and-meghan-markle-278727</a>

Shannen Doherty 'dying of stage 4 terminal cancer'

In a sad news update from Hollywood, Shannen Doherty revealed that her cancer has returned and it’s at stage 4. This typically means that the cancer has progressed and has spread to different parts of her body.&nbsp;

Read in full:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/shannen-doherty-im-stage-4-so-my-cancer-came-back-278857">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/shannen-doherty-im-stage-4-so-my-cancer-came-back-278857</a>

Harvey Weinstein trial: New York jurors shown naked photos of former producer

Jurors in Harvey Weinstein`s New York rape trial were shown naked photographs of the former Hollywood producer on Tuesday over his lawyers` objections. A sketch artist hired by Reuters saw a couple of the naked photos when they were passed to the jury and produced a drawing for the news agency. In the courtroom, prosecutors did not say why the photographs were introduced or how many were presented.

Read in full:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-harvey-weinstein-trial-new-york-jurors-shown-naked-photos-of-former-producer-278653">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-harvey-weinstein-trial-new-york-jurors-shown-naked-photos-of-former-producer-278653</a>

&nbsp;

Among the top 5 Hollywood news today is The Academy tweeting its predictions which made fans believe that the Academy had inadvertently let out the winners list.

Among the top 5 Hollywood news today is The Academy tweeting its predictions which made fans believe that the Academy had inadvertently let out the winners list. Other news that were in buzz today was the jurors in Harvey Weinstein`s New York rape trial being shown naked photographs of the former Hollywood producer on Tuesday over his lawyers` objections. See our top 5 picks for the day: Oscars 2020: Did the Academy by mistake announce the winners list on Twitter? The official Twitter handle of the Academy seemed to have tweeted its predictions which made fans believe that the Academy had inadvertently let out the winners list. The Academy had in fact invited fans to make their own Oscar predictions- and due to a technical glitch- a prediction list got tweeted from the official handle of the Oscars! Read in full: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-did-the-academy-announce-the-winners-list-on-twitter-by-mistake-278681 Former K-pop star Seungri indicted for prostitution laws violation may face military court It’s never a dull day in the lives of Korean pop stars. In a follow up to Korean pop star having been charged with South Korea’s anti-prostitution law, he now may have to join the country’s army and face trial in a military court. Read in full: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/celebrity-news-former-k-pop-star-seungri-indicted-for-prostitution-laws-violation-may-face-military-court-278826 'Dont run off to Canada': Madonna offers her New York apartment to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's exit from the royal family has got everyone talking- including Madonna! The Pop diva has now offered to sublet her New York apartment to the couple and said that they should not live in Canada. Read in full: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/celebrity-news-madonna-offers-to-sublet-her-new-york-apartment-to-prince-harry-and-meghan-markle-278727 Shannen Doherty 'dying of stage 4 terminal cancer' In a sad news update from Hollywood, Shannen Doherty revealed that her cancer has returned and it’s at stage 4. This typically means that the cancer has progressed and has spread to different parts of her body. Read in full: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/shannen-doherty-im-stage-4-so-my-cancer-came-back-278857 Harvey Weinstein trial: New York jurors shown naked photos of former producer Jurors in Harvey Weinstein`s New York rape trial were shown naked photographs of the former Hollywood producer on Tuesday over his lawyers` objections. A sketch artist hired by Reuters saw a couple of the naked photos when they were passed to the jury and produced a drawing for the news agency. In the courtroom, prosecutors did not say why the photographs were introduced or how many were presented. Read in full: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-harvey-weinstein-trial-new-york-jurors-shown-naked-photos-of-former-producer-278653

Top 5 Hollywood news today: Oscars winners list tweet, Harvey Weinstein's naked pics & K-pop scandal

She treated thousands of people in an underground hospital in a besieged rebel enclave in Syria. Now Amani Ballour, the doctor at the center of the Oscar-nominated documentary "The Cave", is stepping out into the limelight.

But the 32-year-old pediatrician, who is still haunted by the dying and mutilated children she had to treat, hopes the attention the film has garnered will remind the world that the horror of the Syrian war is about to enter its ninth year.

"For me, it is not a film, it's my life, my reality," Dr Ballour told AFP before she obtained a visa allowing her to attend the Oscars ceremony in Los Angeles on Sunday.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-news-oscars-2020-heres-the-full-list-of-nominees-274061">Here's the full list of nominees</a>

The harrowing 102-minute film shows the doctor not just struggling to keep wounded children alive in her operating theatre in the former rebel stronghold of Eastern Ghouta, but also having to deal with sexism as a woman in charge of a Syrian hospital.

"The Cave" is one of two shattering films about the conflict in the running for an Oscar alongside Waad al-Kateab's Aleppo-set "For Sama", which won the best documentary at the Cannes film festival in May.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-did-the-academy-announce-the-winners-list-on-twitter-by-mistake-278681">Also read:&nbsp;Oscars 2020: Did the Academy by mistake announce the winners list on Twitter?</a>

- 'Hell on Earth' - 
"The Oscar nomination will help throw more light onto the Syrian cause, and hopefully help push people to support us," said Ballour, who has been living in Turkey since Eastern Ghouta fell after a five-year siege in 2018.

The rebel enclave was described as "Hell on Earth" by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres as it was being pummelled by President Bashar al-Assad's forces.

With the war still raging in Syria, half a million people have been displaced in the last two months by an offensive by the Assad government and its Russian allies in the northwest of the country.

The exodus of refugees it has sparked is one of the biggest of the war.&nbsp;

Like millions of Syrians forced from their homes, Ballour said that she finds it difficult to be at peace with herself in exile. &nbsp;

"When I was at home I could help people, I was calmer despite all the difficulties, the bombardments, the hunger and the tragedies we were witnessing every day," she said.&nbsp;

Instead, the young woman who has just won the Raoul Wallenberg Prize from the Council of Europe for her "exceptional humanitarian acts", is haunted by the suffering of her thousands of child patients.

"The children did not understand anything... They always asked what was happening, why are they bombing us, why they were hungry. It was very difficult to explain to them," the doctor said.

She was particularly marked by one 11-year-old boy, Abdel Rahmane, who was in school when his class was hit by a shell, wounding most of his classmates.

- 'Where are my legs?' - 
"He lost his two legs. When he woke from the anesthetic, he asked, 'Where are my legs? Why have you amputated them?'"

"You could not look the children in the eye when you are treating them, none of us could," she added.

The most difficult memory is of the day when the area was attacked with sarin poison gas in August 2013. At least 1,429 people, 426 of them children, were killed in the attack blamed on the Assad government, according to US statistics.

"In 'The Cave' hospital there was no room left to put the corpses, we piled them up one on top of the other," she recalled.

Yet the documentary, made by the Syrian director Firas Fayyad, has moments of joy, like an improvised birthday party, when surgical gloves were blown up to serve as balloons.&nbsp;

The medical staff became "one big family, we tried to find moments of joy... so we could feel human again," she said.

But as well as the daily horrors, Dr Ballour had to put up with the sexism in what is still a very conservative environment.

"At the start, I heard them say things like (as a woman) I was not up to it. As well as all the pressures of the job, I had to prove that women were capable" of running a hospital, she said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-21-movies-you-should-watch-before-the-awards-night-273034">Oscars 2020: 21 movies you should watch before the awards night</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-from-joker-to-parasite-heres-how-you-can-watch-all-best-film-nominees-in-india-277488">From Joker to Parasite, here's how you can watch all Best Film nominees in India</a>

She treated thousands of people in an underground hospital in a besieged rebel enclave in Syria. Now Amani Ballour, the doctor at the center of the Oscar-nominated documentary "The Cave", is stepping out into the limelight.

She treated thousands of people in an underground hospital in a besieged rebel enclave in Syria. Now Amani Ballour, the doctor at the center of the Oscar-nominated documentary "The Cave", is stepping out into the limelight. But the 32-year-old pediatrician, who is still haunted by the dying and mutilated children she had to treat, hopes the attention the film has garnered will remind the world that the horror of the Syrian war is about to enter its ninth year. "For me, it is not a film, it's my life, my reality," Dr Ballour told AFP before she obtained a visa allowing her to attend the Oscars ceremony in Los Angeles on Sunday. Here's the full list of nominees The harrowing 102-minute film shows the doctor not just struggling to keep wounded children alive in her operating theatre in the former rebel stronghold of Eastern Ghouta, but also having to deal with sexism as a woman in charge of a Syrian hospital. "The Cave" is one of two shattering films about the conflict in the running for an Oscar alongside Waad al-Kateab's Aleppo-set "For Sama", which won the best documentary at the Cannes film festival in May. Also read: Oscars 2020: Did the Academy by mistake announce the winners list on Twitter? - 'Hell on Earth' - "The Oscar nomination will help throw more light onto the Syrian cause, and hopefully help push people to support us," said Ballour, who has been living in Turkey since Eastern Ghouta fell after a five-year siege in 2018. The rebel enclave was described as "Hell on Earth" by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres as it was being pummelled by President Bashar al-Assad's forces. With the war still raging in Syria, half a million people have been displaced in the last two months by an offensive by the Assad government and its Russian allies in the northwest of the country. The exodus of refugees it has sparked is one of the biggest of the war. Like millions of Syrians forced from their homes, Ballour said that she finds it difficult to be at peace with herself in exile. "When I was at home I could help people, I was calmer despite all the difficulties, the bombardments, the hunger and the tragedies we were witnessing every day," she said. Instead, the young woman who has just won the Raoul Wallenberg Prize from the Council of Europe for her "exceptional humanitarian acts", is haunted by the suffering of her thousands of child patients. "The children did not understand anything... They always asked what was happening, why are they bombing us, why they were hungry. It was very difficult to explain to them," the doctor said. She was particularly marked by one 11-year-old boy, Abdel Rahmane, who was in school when his class was hit by a shell, wounding most of his classmates. - 'Where are my legs?' - "He lost his two legs. When he woke from the anesthetic, he asked, 'Where are my legs? Why have you amputated them?'" "You could not look the children in the eye when you are treating them, none of us could," she added. The most difficult memory is of the day when the area was attacked with sarin poison gas in August 2013. At least 1,429 people, 426 of them children, were killed in the attack blamed on the Assad government, according to US statistics. "In 'The Cave' hospital there was no room left to put the corpses, we piled them up one on top of the other," she recalled. Yet the documentary, made by the Syrian director Firas Fayyad, has moments of joy, like an improvised birthday party, when surgical gloves were blown up to serve as balloons. The medical staff became "one big family, we tried to find moments of joy... so we could feel human again," she said. But as well as the daily horrors, Dr Ballour had to put up with the sexism in what is still a very conservative environment. "At the start, I heard them say things like (as a woman) I was not up to it. As well as all the pressures of the job, I had to prove that women were capable" of running a hospital, she said. Oscars 2020: 21 movies you should watch before the awards night From Joker to Parasite, here's how you can watch all Best Film nominees in India

Syria's hero doctor steps reluctantly into Oscars limelight

Fresh on the heels of Paris' glittering couture week, the sartorial spotlight shifts to New York, as designers gear up to present looks for fall and winter 2020, starting on Thursday.

Formally known as NYFW: The Shows, the week's worth of presentations, runway productions, parties, and other promotional events kicks off on Feb. 6, following several days of menswear collections.

But with an earlier-than-usual date of Feb. 9, Hollywood's Academy Awards threaten to divert at least some of the limelight - and star power - from the New York shows, which often attract celebrities like Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, Paris Hilton or the Kardashians.

Indeed, Tom Ford, who is chairman of the Council of Fashion Designers of America and has often helped kick off the New York shows, will instead stage a starry show in Hollywood on Friday.

Although some top names are missing from the roster, the audience will still see "a huge lineup of great designers," said April Guidone, global VP of marketing and brand strategy at IMG, which runs the New York shows.

Christian Siriano, Rag and Bone, Cynthia Rowley and Badgley Mischka are among the most anticipated shows.

Kate Spade, meanwhile, will present its fall designs directly on social media. Fashion Week, an event that was once only open to fashion industry insiders, is changing with the times, said Guidone.

"With smartphones, the consumers are there now and influencers are now invited... to cover the shows and show consumers all over the world, who are following along in real-time, what's on the runway," she said.

Last season saw the introduction of New York Fashion Week: The Experience, which afforded "outsiders" access to fashion shows - for a price. Tickets are still available, starting at around $500 for a seat at a single show. VIP packages can run to thousands of dollars.

Other widely-anticipated shows include the Blonds, who in recent seasons have electrified runways with dazzlingly produced shows themed on topics like Disney villains or gangster fashion. Marc Jacobs will wrap things up on Feb. 12, according to tradition.

Globally oriented shows include the Asian Fashion Collection, the Turkish Group Runway Show, and looks from Indian designer Bibhu Mohapatra.

Fresh on the heels of Paris' glittering couture week, the sartorial spotlight shifts to New York, as designers gear up to present looks for fall and winter 2020, starting on Thursday.

Fresh on the heels of Paris' glittering couture week, the sartorial spotlight shifts to New York, as designers gear up to present looks for fall and winter 2020, starting on Thursday. Formally known as NYFW: The Shows, the week's worth of presentations, runway productions, parties, and other promotional events kicks off on Feb. 6, following several days of menswear collections. But with an earlier-than-usual date of Feb. 9, Hollywood's Academy Awards threaten to divert at least some of the limelight - and star power - from the New York shows, which often attract celebrities like Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, Paris Hilton or the Kardashians. Indeed, Tom Ford, who is chairman of the Council of Fashion Designers of America and has often helped kick off the New York shows, will instead stage a starry show in Hollywood on Friday. Although some top names are missing from the roster, the audience will still see "a huge lineup of great designers," said April Guidone, global VP of marketing and brand strategy at IMG, which runs the New York shows. Christian Siriano, Rag and Bone, Cynthia Rowley and Badgley Mischka are among the most anticipated shows. Kate Spade, meanwhile, will present its fall designs directly on social media. Fashion Week, an event that was once only open to fashion industry insiders, is changing with the times, said Guidone. "With smartphones, the consumers are there now and influencers are now invited... to cover the shows and show consumers all over the world, who are following along in real-time, what's on the runway," she said. Last season saw the introduction of New York Fashion Week: The Experience, which afforded "outsiders" access to fashion shows - for a price. Tickets are still available, starting at around $500 for a seat at a single show. VIP packages can run to thousands of dollars. Other widely-anticipated shows include the Blonds, who in recent seasons have electrified runways with dazzlingly produced shows themed on topics like Disney villains or gangster fashion. Marc Jacobs will wrap things up on Feb. 12, according to tradition. Globally oriented shows include the Asian Fashion Collection, the Turkish Group Runway Show, and looks from Indian designer Bibhu Mohapatra.

New York Fashion Week kicks off in shadow of Oscars

With just a few days left for Hollywood's biggest night- Oscar Awards to commence, fans across the world a feverishly predicting the winners. The winners will be announced at a glittering ceremony on Sunday- and the big reveal of who wins the top prize of best film is perhaps one of the most anticipated moments of the ceremony.&nbsp; 
 
On Tuesday, though, the official Twitter handle of the Academy seemed to have tweeted its predictions which made fans believe that the Academy had inadvertently let out the winners list. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-news-oscars-2020-heres-the-full-list-of-nominees-274061">Here's the full list of nominees</a> 
 
The Academy had in fact invited fans to make their own Oscar predictions- and due to a technical glitch- a prediction list got tweeted from the official handle of the Oscars!

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-21-movies-you-should-watch-before-the-awards-night-273034">Oscars 2020: 21 movies you should watch before the awards night</a> 
 
The tweet was eventually removed and the Academy clarified about the glitch in a new tweet. "We invited fans on Twitter to make and share your #Oscars predictions. A ton of you already have! A brief issue on Twitter made some of yours look like they came from our account. They didn’t. This error is now resolved. And we’ll reveal our picks on Sunday."

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We invited fans on Twitter to make and share your <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Oscars?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Oscars</a> predictions. 
 
A ton of you already have! 😀 
 
A brief issue on Twitter made some of yours look like they came from our account.😳 
 
They didn’t. This error is now resolved. 
 
And we’ll reveal our picks on Sunday.
— The Academy (@TheAcademy) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheAcademy/status/1224558590490370051?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The prediction list that went viral on Twitter had Meanwhile, 'Parasite' named as Best Picture, '1917‘s' Sam Mendes for Best Director, 'Joker‘s' Joaquin Phoenix for Best Actor, 'Judy‘s' Renee Zellweger for Best Actress, 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood‘s' Brad Pitt for Best Supporting Actor, and 'Marriage Story‘s' Laura Dern for Best Supporting Actress.&nbsp; 
 
Bong Joon-ho's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-parasite-review-bong-joon-hos-film-on-class-divide-is-a-masterclass-in-storytelling-277783">'Parasite'</a> and Sam Mendes' <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-meet-best-film-nominee-1917-277518">'1917'</a> seems to be the frontrunners of the Best Picture award as both been earning top prizes this award season. Will Oscar follow the same pattern or will it throw in a surprise. Guess, we will have to wait till Sunday to get the answer.&nbsp;

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-from-joker-to-parasite-heres-how-you-can-watch-all-best-film-nominees-in-india-277488">From Joker to Parasite, here's how you can watch all Best Film nominees in India</a>

With just a few days left for Hollywood's biggest night- Oscar Awards to commence, fans across the world a feverishly predicting the winners. The winners will be announced at a glittering ceremony on Sunday- and the big reveal of who wins the top prize of best film is perhaps one of the most anticipated moments of the ceremony.

With just a few days left for Hollywood's biggest night- Oscar Awards to commence, fans across the world a feverishly predicting the winners. The winners will be announced at a glittering ceremony on Sunday- and the big reveal of who wins the top prize of best film is perhaps one of the most anticipated moments of the ceremony. On Tuesday, though, the official Twitter handle of the Academy seemed to have tweeted its predictions which made fans believe that the Academy had inadvertently let out the winners list. Here's the full list of nominees The Academy had in fact invited fans to make their own Oscar predictions- and due to a technical glitch- a prediction list got tweeted from the official handle of the Oscars! Also see: Oscars 2020: 21 movies you should watch before the awards night The tweet was eventually removed and the Academy clarified about the glitch in a new tweet. "We invited fans on Twitter to make and share your #Oscars predictions. A ton of you already have! A brief issue on Twitter made some of yours look like they came from our account. They didn’t. This error is now resolved. And we’ll reveal our picks on Sunday." We invited fans on Twitter to make and share your #Oscars predictions. A ton of you already have! 😀 A brief issue on Twitter made some of yours look like they came from our account.😳 They didn’t. This error is now resolved. And we’ll reveal our picks on Sunday. — The Academy (@TheAcademy) February 4, 2020 × The prediction list that went viral on Twitter had Meanwhile, 'Parasite' named as Best Picture, '1917‘s' Sam Mendes for Best Director, 'Joker‘s' Joaquin Phoenix for Best Actor, 'Judy‘s' Renee Zellweger for Best Actress, 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood‘s' Brad Pitt for Best Supporting Actor, and 'Marriage Story‘s' Laura Dern for Best Supporting Actress. Bong Joon-ho's 'Parasite' and Sam Mendes' '1917' seems to be the frontrunners of the Best Picture award as both been earning top prizes this award season. Will Oscar follow the same pattern or will it throw in a surprise. Guess, we will have to wait till Sunday to get the answer. Also see: From Joker to Parasite, here's how you can watch all Best Film nominees in India

Oscars 2020: Did the Academy by mistake announce the winners list on Twitter?

For some, it`s the "white male rage" Oscars. Others have dubbed it the year of "Big Men, Little Women." Despite four years of efforts to address the #OscarsSoWhite furor, the winners` podium at Sunday`s Academy Awards is expected to be made up entirely of white actors and no female directors. 
 
Of the nine best picture nominees at this year`s Oscars, just one - "Little Women" - is a story about and made by women, while just one of the 20 acting nominees is a person of colour-&nbsp;"Harriet" star Cynthia Erivo. Neither is expected to take home the biggest honors in the movie industry. 
 
"The whole Hollywood system can sometimes feel like a bit of a boys` club," said Taika Waititi, director of Oscar-nominated Nazi satire "Jojo Rabbit." 
 
It`s been 10 years since Kathryn Bigelow became the first and so far only woman to win the best director Academy Award, for her war film "The Hurt Locker." This year, "Little Women"s Greta Gerwig was the biggest omission in the director race. 
 
Despite a banner 2019 in which women made up 21 percent of all directors, writers, producers and cinematographers on the top 250 grossing films, including "Captain Marvel" and "Frozen II," those gains largely failed to translate into honours at awards season. 
 
"As a culture, we still value stories about men more than we value stories about women, and if there is a healthy dose of violence in those movies, even better," said Martha Lauzen, founder of the Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film at San Diego State University.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-from-joker-to-parasite-heres-how-you-can-watch-all-best-film-nominees-in-india-277488">Oscars 2020: From Joker to Parasite, here's how you can watch all Best Film nominees in India</a> 
 
"On the one hand, of course, these awards are frivolous and seem silly at times, but the fact is they translate into visibility, and visibility translates into opportunities and higher salaries," she said. 
 
Since 2016, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, whose members choose the Oscar winners, has doubled the number of women and people of colour in its invitation-only ranks. Yet, by 2019 just 32% of its approximately 8,000 members were women, and 16% were people of colour. 
 
EXPAND BEST DIRECTOR SLOTS 
 
Lauzen, who has been chronicling the presence of women on screen and behind the camera for 22 years, has one suggestion that could improve matters more quickly than waiting for the academy to catch up. 
 
"Expanding the best director category to include more spaces strikes me as an elegant, simple and transparent way to make room for others," Lauzen said.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-mark-ruffalo-gal-gadot-mindy-kaling-and-others-announced-as-presenters-277375">Mark Ruffalo, Gal Gadot, Mindy Kaling and others announced as presenters</a> 
 
There are currently just five slots in the best director field but up to 10 movies can be nominated for the top prize of best picture. 
 
"The academy could do a lot to help," said Olivia Wilde, director of high school comedy "Booksmart," which was snubbed. 
 
"When they nominate a movie for best picture but not the director, it begs the question `Are they discounting the amount of effort and dedication and thought that went into that?`" she said. 
 
The academy noted that a record 62 women got Oscar nominations this year, almost one-third of the field, including a screenplay nod for Gerwig, an editing nomination for Thelma Schoonmaker for "The Irishman," and an original score nod for Hildur Guonadottir for "Joker." 
 
Sam Mendes, the Oscar-nominated director of best picture front-runner "1917," said there was "an enormous number of talented female directors coming through." 
 
"I just think it`s a process and it is taking a long time. Some years it is good and some years, like this year, it has been a fallow and frustrating year," Mendes added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-from-year-1969-to-2019-see-the-most-shocking-outfits-of-the-red-carpet-277841">Oscars: The most shocking outfits on the red carpet over the years</a> 
 
Last year was a different story, at least in terms of ethnic diversity. Spike Lee won in the screenplay field for "BlacKkKlansman," while Rami Malek, Regina King and Mahershala Ali took acting Oscars, and Mexican director Alfonso Cuaron won three for "Roma." In 2017, "Moonlight," about a gay black youth growing up in an impoverished Miami neighbourhood, was named best picture. 
 
This year, Erivo, a London-born actress with Nigerian parents, has not picked up enough support at other award shows to make her a likely winner at the Oscars, awards pundits say. 
 
Eddie Murphy failed to make the cut for his well-reviewed comeback comedy "Dolemite Is My Name," along with Jennifer Lopez for "Hustlers" and social justice drama "Just Mercy," starring Oscar winner Jamie Foxx and Michael B. Jordan. Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-nominees-to-get-lavish-gifts-worth-of-215000-278302" hreflang="en">Oscars 2020: Find out what's inside $215,000 gift bag of nominees this year</a> 
 
Foxx and Jordan both removed themselves from the diversity debate, at least publicly, saying they wanted to respect those who were nominated. 
 
"We don`t want to cloud their moment," Foxx said on the red carpet, two days after Oscar nominations were announced in January. 
"However anybody feels about anything, let`s let them enjoy their time," he said.

Oscars

For some, it`s the "white male rage" Oscars. Others have dubbed it the year of "Big Men, Little Women." Despite four years of efforts to address the #OscarsSoWhite furor, the winners` podium at Sunday`s Academy Awards is expected to be made up entirely of white actors and no female directors.

For some, it`s the "white male rage" Oscars. Others have dubbed it the year of "Big Men, Little Women." Despite four years of efforts to address the #OscarsSoWhite furor, the winners` podium at Sunday`s Academy Awards is expected to be made up entirely of white actors and no female directors. Of the nine best picture nominees at this year`s Oscars, just one - "Little Women" - is a story about and made by women, while just one of the 20 acting nominees is a person of colour- "Harriet" star Cynthia Erivo. Neither is expected to take home the biggest honors in the movie industry. "The whole Hollywood system can sometimes feel like a bit of a boys` club," said Taika Waititi, director of Oscar-nominated Nazi satire "Jojo Rabbit." It`s been 10 years since Kathryn Bigelow became the first and so far only woman to win the best director Academy Award, for her war film "The Hurt Locker." This year, "Little Women"s Greta Gerwig was the biggest omission in the director race. Despite a banner 2019 in which women made up 21 percent of all directors, writers, producers and cinematographers on the top 250 grossing films, including "Captain Marvel" and "Frozen II," those gains largely failed to translate into honours at awards season. "As a culture, we still value stories about men more than we value stories about women, and if there is a healthy dose of violence in those movies, even better," said Martha Lauzen, founder of the Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film at San Diego State University. Oscars 2020: From Joker to Parasite, here's how you can watch all Best Film nominees in India "On the one hand, of course, these awards are frivolous and seem silly at times, but the fact is they translate into visibility, and visibility translates into opportunities and higher salaries," she said. Since 2016, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, whose members choose the Oscar winners, has doubled the number of women and people of colour in its invitation-only ranks. Yet, by 2019 just 32% of its approximately 8,000 members were women, and 16% were people of colour. EXPAND BEST DIRECTOR SLOTS Lauzen, who has been chronicling the presence of women on screen and behind the camera for 22 years, has one suggestion that could improve matters more quickly than waiting for the academy to catch up. "Expanding the best director category to include more spaces strikes me as an elegant, simple and transparent way to make room for others," Lauzen said.Mark Ruffalo, Gal Gadot, Mindy Kaling and others announced as presenters There are currently just five slots in the best director field but up to 10 movies can be nominated for the top prize of best picture. "The academy could do a lot to help," said Olivia Wilde, director of high school comedy "Booksmart," which was snubbed. "When they nominate a movie for best picture but not the director, it begs the question `Are they discounting the amount of effort and dedication and thought that went into that?`" she said. The academy noted that a record 62 women got Oscar nominations this year, almost one-third of the field, including a screenplay nod for Gerwig, an editing nomination for Thelma Schoonmaker for "The Irishman," and an original score nod for Hildur Guonadottir for "Joker." Sam Mendes, the Oscar-nominated director of best picture front-runner "1917," said there was "an enormous number of talented female directors coming through." "I just think it`s a process and it is taking a long time. Some years it is good and some years, like this year, it has been a fallow and frustrating year," Mendes added. Oscars: The most shocking outfits on the red carpet over the years Last year was a different story, at least in terms of ethnic diversity. Spike Lee won in the screenplay field for "BlacKkKlansman," while Rami Malek, Regina King and Mahershala Ali took acting Oscars, and Mexican director Alfonso Cuaron won three for "Roma." In 2017, "Moonlight," about a gay black youth growing up in an impoverished Miami neighbourhood, was named best picture. This year, Erivo, a London-born actress with Nigerian parents, has not picked up enough support at other award shows to make her a likely winner at the Oscars, awards pundits say. Eddie Murphy failed to make the cut for his well-reviewed comeback comedy "Dolemite Is My Name," along with Jennifer Lopez for "Hustlers" and social justice drama "Just Mercy," starring Oscar winner Jamie Foxx and Michael B. Jordan. Also see: Oscars 2020: Find out what's inside $215,000 gift bag of nominees this year Foxx and Jordan both removed themselves from the diversity debate, at least publicly, saying they wanted to respect those who were nominated. "We don`t want to cloud their moment," Foxx said on the red carpet, two days after Oscar nominations were announced in January. "However anybody feels about anything, let`s let them enjoy their time," he said. Oscars

92nd Academy Awards is all set for an all-white ceremony dominated by the men

February is Oscar month. With just a few days left for Hollywood's biggest nights, fans across the world are catching up on all the films that have found a mention in extensive nomination list earlier in January.&nbsp; 
 
Last Friday, Indian fans got to watch two of the Oscar-nominated film - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-parasite-review-bong-joon-hos-film-on-class-divide-is-a-masterclass-in-storytelling-277783">'Parasite'</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-jojo-rabbit-review-taika-waititis-satire-on-fascism-is-all-heart-277692">'Jojo Rabbit' </a>in theatres.&nbsp; 
 
This Friday, 'Little Women' releases in India along with two other Hollywood films. Here, take a look.&nbsp;

Little Women 
 
Greta Gerwig may not have earned a spot in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-news-oscars-2020-heres-the-full-list-of-nominees-274061">Best Director category of Oscars 2020 </a>but her film based on author &nbsp;Louisa May Alcott's classic novel by the same name has earnbed rave reveiwes in America last year when it commercial released there. Featuring an eclectic cast comprising of actresses like Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Timothée Chalamet, Tracy Letts, Bob Odenkirk, James Norton and Meryl Streep- the story is based on the lives of four sisters growing up during the Americal Civil War. The girls face hardships. poverty and social expectations while their father is off fighting the war.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AST2-4db4ic" width="560"></iframe>

Birds Of Prey 
 
Margot Robbie had made heads turn with her cat as Harley Quinn in the otherwise forgettable 'Suicide Squad'. So it seemed only fair to have a stand-alone film exploring Quin's life and how she became the way she is.&nbsp; 
 
In 'Birds Of Prey (And The Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn), Robbie plays Harley Quin once again, but this time she has the company of Huntress, Black Canary and Renee Montoya who together fight Gotham City's biggest villain Roman Sionis. The film has been directed by Cathy Yan.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kGM4uYZzfu0" width="560"></iframe>

The Wedding Year 
 
27-year old Los Angeles photographer Mara Hickey is sure that she is not the one who would ever settle down even though her relationship with new boyfriend is going great and he is okay about settling down. Their relationship is put to test when the couple are invited to 15 weddings in the same year. Would Mara succumb to pressure and get married too? The film stars 'Full House' actress &nbsp;Sarah Hyland and Tyler James Williams in the lead.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TVhVdVj5KVY" width="560"></iframe>

February is Oscar month. With just a few days left for Hollywood's biggest nights, fans across the world are catching up on all the films that have found a mention in extensive nomination list earlier in January.

February is Oscar month. With just a few days left for Hollywood's biggest nights, fans across the world are catching up on all the films that have found a mention in extensive nomination list earlier in January. Last Friday, Indian fans got to watch two of the Oscar-nominated film - 'Parasite' and 'Jojo Rabbit' in theatres. This Friday, 'Little Women' releases in India along with two other Hollywood films. Here, take a look. Little Women Greta Gerwig may not have earned a spot in the Best Director category of Oscars 2020 but her film based on author Louisa May Alcott's classic novel by the same name has earnbed rave reveiwes in America last year when it commercial released there. Featuring an eclectic cast comprising of actresses like Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Timothée Chalamet, Tracy Letts, Bob Odenkirk, James Norton and Meryl Streep- the story is based on the lives of four sisters growing up during the Americal Civil War. The girls face hardships. poverty and social expectations while their father is off fighting the war. Birds Of Prey Margot Robbie had made heads turn with her cat as Harley Quinn in the otherwise forgettable 'Suicide Squad'. So it seemed only fair to have a stand-alone film exploring Quin's life and how she became the way she is. In 'Birds Of Prey (And The Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn), Robbie plays Harley Quin once again, but this time she has the company of Huntress, Black Canary and Renee Montoya who together fight Gotham City's biggest villain Roman Sionis. The film has been directed by Cathy Yan. The Wedding Year 27-year old Los Angeles photographer Mara Hickey is sure that she is not the one who would ever settle down even though her relationship with new boyfriend is going great and he is okay about settling down. Their relationship is put to test when the couple are invited to 15 weddings in the same year. Would Mara succumb to pressure and get married too? The film stars 'Full House' actress Sarah Hyland and Tyler James Williams in the lead.

Oscar nominated 'Little Women' and DC's 'Birds Of Prey' are the big Hollywood releases this week

How much can you expect from a film? How fair is it to ask a film to perform according to our expectations? Can a film ever be worth the hype when we are already told it has won several big awards?

These were some of the questions in my mind when I sat down to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-parasite-review-bong-joon-hos-film-on-class-divide-is-a-masterclass-in-storytelling-277783">watch 'Parasite'</a>. It's not the first time that a foreign-language film has raised so much curiosity. But it's different this time around.

'Parasite' is a serious challenger for the Best Picture Oscar. No foreign film in history has come this close. It has already been named the Best Foreign Film in nearly every single award show this season.

The film has been nominated for a total of 6 Oscars, including Best Director, Best Original Screenplay and Best Editing.

It has already won the Screen Actors Guild Award. The term&nbsp;gargantuan expectations feels like a joke here.

And yet by the time I was done watching it, I had no idea what just hit me. One of the most unique films I've seen to date. A film that cannot be slotted in any genre.

If at all there is one, then it can be named after this filmmaker - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-news-hollywood-news-oscars-2020-nominee-parasite-director-thinks-marvel-world-is-not-suitable-for-him-274900">Bong Joon Ho</a>.

Before 'Parasite', he made a film called 'Okja'. An action-adventure film about a girl who raises a genetically modified pig, which is nearly the size of an elephant, and an evil multinational corporation wants to acquire it at any cost.

Yeah, he is that weird. But in a way that delights our senses while watching his movies. I'll give you this for a synopsis of 'Parasite' - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/cannes-winner-parasite-captures-rich-poor-gap-in-basic-unit-of-life-director-222404">poor &amp; jobless family</a> befriends rich family to work in their household, and tries to act wealthy. Things turn messy. That's all you need to know.

But in the times of the internet, you would search and read far more. But seriously - don't. In fact, don't be friends with people who tell you the story of this film before you go watch it.

My friends just oohed and aahed after watching it not telling me even a single real word. And thank god for that.

It was a wallop of movie experience! 'Parasite' does everything from making you laugh hard with dark humour to gasping hard while biting your nails with tension. And when it's done, it won't leave you for the next 2-3 days - at least.

I couldn't stop reading about it and watching analytical videos online. There's so much subtext, that it's like a mini-crash course in Korean culture and history.

Despite the fact that the film is set in current times and you don't need to know anything about South Korea to understand it. Probably because it has something at its core, that's extremely relevant to the whole wide world.

The unbridgeable gap of wealth inequality in society. Don't worry, the film is the polar opposite of a boring sermon on the topic. It thrills you and fills you with an insatiable urge to know what's gonna happen next.

Nearly all your guesses about the twists and turns of the film will be wrong. Don't bother. All the film needs is a genuinely open-minded viewer who wants to be entertained. And as a bonus, it gives you something to think about as well.

'Parasite' is like a slap on the conscience of the upper-middle class and the upper class.You'll know it when you see it.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

How much can you expect from a film? How fair is it to ask a film to perform according to our expectations? Can a film ever be worth the hype when we are already told it has won several big awards?

How much can you expect from a film? How fair is it to ask a film to perform according to our expectations? Can a film ever be worth the hype when we are already told it has won several big awards? These were some of the questions in my mind when I sat down to watch 'Parasite'. It's not the first time that a foreign-language film has raised so much curiosity. But it's different this time around. 'Parasite' is a serious challenger for the Best Picture Oscar. No foreign film in history has come this close. It has already been named the Best Foreign Film in nearly every single award show this season. The film has been nominated for a total of 6 Oscars, including Best Director, Best Original Screenplay and Best Editing. It has already won the Screen Actors Guild Award. The term gargantuan expectations feels like a joke here. And yet by the time I was done watching it, I had no idea what just hit me. One of the most unique films I've seen to date. A film that cannot be slotted in any genre. If at all there is one, then it can be named after this filmmaker - Bong Joon Ho. Before 'Parasite', he made a film called 'Okja'. An action-adventure film about a girl who raises a genetically modified pig, which is nearly the size of an elephant, and an evil multinational corporation wants to acquire it at any cost. Yeah, he is that weird. But in a way that delights our senses while watching his movies. I'll give you this for a synopsis of 'Parasite' - poor & jobless family befriends rich family to work in their household, and tries to act wealthy. Things turn messy. That's all you need to know. But in the times of the internet, you would search and read far more. But seriously - don't. In fact, don't be friends with people who tell you the story of this film before you go watch it. My friends just oohed and aahed after watching it not telling me even a single real word. And thank god for that. It was a wallop of movie experience! 'Parasite' does everything from making you laugh hard with dark humour to gasping hard while biting your nails with tension. And when it's done, it won't leave you for the next 2-3 days - at least. I couldn't stop reading about it and watching analytical videos online. There's so much subtext, that it's like a mini-crash course in Korean culture and history. Despite the fact that the film is set in current times and you don't need to know anything about South Korea to understand it. Probably because it has something at its core, that's extremely relevant to the whole wide world. The unbridgeable gap of wealth inequality in society. Don't worry, the film is the polar opposite of a boring sermon on the topic. It thrills you and fills you with an insatiable urge to know what's gonna happen next. Nearly all your guesses about the twists and turns of the film will be wrong. Don't bother. All the film needs is a genuinely open-minded viewer who wants to be entertained. And as a bonus, it gives you something to think about as well. 'Parasite' is like a slap on the conscience of the upper-middle class and the upper class.You'll know it when you see it. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

'Parasite' is worth all the hype

It was all about two major Hollywood events today -- BAFTA 2020 awards ceremony and Super Bowl half time show which is like every year known for its high-on-glam performances by major artists.&nbsp;

Read our top 5 Hollywood news today:

BAFTA 2020: '1917' leads with seven wins, here's the complete list of winners

The British Academy of Film and Television Awards held on Sunday night saw British filmmaker Sam Mendes' war drama '1917' take home 7 awards including the Best Picture and Best Director for Mendes.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-bafta-2020-1917-leads-with-seven-wins-heres-the-complete-list-of-winners-278207">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-bafta-2020-1917-leads-with-seven-wins-heres-the-complete-list-of-winners-278207</a>

Jennifer Lopez, Shakira set the stage on fire at Super Bowl halftime show

Latin American divas, Jennifer Lopez and Shakira brought the house down with their energetic performances at Sunday`s Super Bowl halftime show complete with hip-shaking choreography and a medley of infectious hits.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-jennifer-lopez-shakira-set-the-stage-on-fire-at-super-bowl-halftime-show-278218">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-jennifer-lopez-shakira-set-the-stage-on-fire-at-super-bowl-halftime-show-278218</a>

BAFTA 2020: Brad Pitt makes a Prince Harry joke in speech &amp; the cameras zoom for William's reaction

Brad Pitt could not make it to the ceremony but he did send his award speech via his ‘Once Upon A Time in Hollywood’ co-star and friend, Margot Robbie. As Brad won Best Supporting Actor award for his role in the film, Margot walked to the stage to pick the coveted award and read out his speech.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-bafta-2020-brad-pitt-makes-a-prince-harry-joke-in-speech-the-cameras-zoom-for-williams-reaction-278297">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-bafta-2020-brad-pitt-makes-a-prince-harry-joke-in-speech-the-cameras-zoom-for-williams-reaction-278297</a>

Oscars 2020: Find out what's inside $215,000 gift bag of nominees this year

Whether they win top awards at The Academy Awards scheduled for February 10, this year's nominees will still walk home with an ultra-luxurious goodie bag.&nbsp;There is literally nothing to lose for those nominated at the Oscars 2020.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-nominees-to-get-lavish-gifts-worth-of-215000-278302">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-nominees-to-get-lavish-gifts-worth-of-215000-278302</a>

Watch: Tom Cruise starrer 'Top Gun' sequel new teaser-trailer released during Super Bowl

‘Top Gun’ was a massive hit when it released in 1986 featuring some very high-octane action sequences. ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ will see Tom Cruise reprise his role as Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-watch-tom-cruise-starrer-top-gun-sequel-new-teaser-trailer-released-during-super-bowl-278345">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-watch-tom-cruise-starrer-top-gun-sequel-new-teaser-trailer-released-during-super-bowl-278345</a>

It was all about two major Hollywood events today -- BAFTA 2020 awards ceremony and Super Bowl half time show which is like every year known for its high-on-glam performances by major artists.

It was all about two major Hollywood events today -- BAFTA 2020 awards ceremony and Super Bowl half time show which is like every year known for its high-on-glam performances by major artists. Read our top 5 Hollywood news today: BAFTA 2020: '1917' leads with seven wins, here's the complete list of winners The British Academy of Film and Television Awards held on Sunday night saw British filmmaker Sam Mendes' war drama '1917' take home 7 awards including the Best Picture and Best Director for Mendes. Read more: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-bafta-2020-1917-leads-with-seven-wins-heres-the-complete-list-of-winners-278207 Jennifer Lopez, Shakira set the stage on fire at Super Bowl halftime show Latin American divas, Jennifer Lopez and Shakira brought the house down with their energetic performances at Sunday`s Super Bowl halftime show complete with hip-shaking choreography and a medley of infectious hits. Read more: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-jennifer-lopez-shakira-set-the-stage-on-fire-at-super-bowl-halftime-show-278218 BAFTA 2020: Brad Pitt makes a Prince Harry joke in speech & the cameras zoom for William's reaction Brad Pitt could not make it to the ceremony but he did send his award speech via his ‘Once Upon A Time in Hollywood’ co-star and friend, Margot Robbie. As Brad won Best Supporting Actor award for his role in the film, Margot walked to the stage to pick the coveted award and read out his speech. Read more: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-bafta-2020-brad-pitt-makes-a-prince-harry-joke-in-speech-the-cameras-zoom-for-williams-reaction-278297 Oscars 2020: Find out what's inside $215,000 gift bag of nominees this year Whether they win top awards at The Academy Awards scheduled for February 10, this year's nominees will still walk home with an ultra-luxurious goodie bag. There is literally nothing to lose for those nominated at the Oscars 2020. Read more: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-nominees-to-get-lavish-gifts-worth-of-215000-278302 Watch: Tom Cruise starrer 'Top Gun' sequel new teaser-trailer released during Super Bowl ‘Top Gun’ was a massive hit when it released in 1986 featuring some very high-octane action sequences. ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ will see Tom Cruise reprise his role as Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell. Read more: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-watch-tom-cruise-starrer-top-gun-sequel-new-teaser-trailer-released-during-super-bowl-278345

Top 5 Hollywood News today: '1917' leads BAFTA 2020 winners list, Shakira-JLo turn up the heat at Super Bowl

Whether they win top awards at The Academy Awards scheduled for February 10, this year's nominees will still walk home with an ultra-luxurious goodie bag.&nbsp;

There is literally nothing to lose for those nominated at the Oscars 2020. Even if they&nbsp;don't get the gold trophy which is, by the way, a 24-carat-gold-plated statuette and costs&nbsp;just $400 to make --&nbsp;they will be getting&nbsp;gifts worth&nbsp;$215,000. Yes, you read that right! 
 
Oscars 2020 will take place at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles and even the losers will go home with luxury&nbsp;consolation prizes. As per a report published in Forbes, the nominees irrespective of their wins and losses will take home a&nbsp;six-figure gift bag courtesy of&nbsp;Distinctive Assets, a celebrity and product placement marketing company. 
 
This year’s Oscars bag&nbsp;is valued at $215,000, up nearly $70,000 from last year’s. The value of all 24 bags is $5.2 million and the most expensive item in the 2020 Oscars gift bag is a $78,000 cruise.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-from-joker-to-parasite-heres-how-you-can-watch-all-best-film-nominees-in-india-277488">In Pictures:&nbsp;Oscars 2020: From Joker to Parasite, here's how you can watch all Best Film nominees in India</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-from-joker-to-parasite-heres-how-you-can-watch-all-best-film-nominees-in-india-277488">This is why we think Sam Mendes' '1917' is front runner for Oscars Best Film</a> 
 
Distinctive Assets is not affiliated with the Academy of Motion Arts and Sciences, which presents the Oscars. Their&nbsp;founder Lash Fary aka 'the Sultan of Swag', founded Distinctive Assets two decades ago as a private showroom for costume designers for television shows. 
 
In 2000, he started distributing branded gifts to celebrities backstage at the Grammys. Now Fary, 48, produces gift suites for nearly every top awards show, including the Tonys and American Music Awards. 
 
In so many years, there has been this only one time when a nominee has not accepted the Oscars gift bag which is an annual thing. Last year, Glenn Close, nominated for 'The Wife', asked to donate it to a women's charity in her name.&nbsp;So far, none of the 2020 nominees have turned down Distinctive Assets.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-parasite-review-bong-joon-hos-film-on-class-divide-is-a-masterclass-in-storytelling-277783">Oscar-nominated 'Parasite' review&nbsp;</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-from-year-1969-to-2019-see-the-most-shocking-outfits-of-the-red-carpet-277841">Oscars: The most shocking outfits on the red carpet over the years</a>

Whether they win top awards at The Academy Awards scheduled for February 10, this year's nominees will still walk home with an ultra-luxurious goodie bag. There is literally nothing to lose for those nominated at the Oscars 2020.

Whether they win top awards at The Academy Awards scheduled for February 10, this year's nominees will still walk home with an ultra-luxurious goodie bag. There is literally nothing to lose for those nominated at the Oscars 2020. Even if they don't get the gold trophy which is, by the way, a 24-carat-gold-plated statuette and costs just $400 to make -- they will be getting gifts worth $215,000. Yes, you read that right! Oscars 2020 will take place at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles and even the losers will go home with luxury consolation prizes. As per a report published in Forbes, the nominees irrespective of their wins and losses will take home a six-figure gift bag courtesy of Distinctive Assets, a celebrity and product placement marketing company. This year’s Oscars bag is valued at $215,000, up nearly $70,000 from last year’s. The value of all 24 bags is $5.2 million and the most expensive item in the 2020 Oscars gift bag is a $78,000 cruise. In Pictures: Oscars 2020: From Joker to Parasite, here's how you can watch all Best Film nominees in India This is why we think Sam Mendes' '1917' is front runner for Oscars Best Film Distinctive Assets is not affiliated with the Academy of Motion Arts and Sciences, which presents the Oscars. Their founder Lash Fary aka 'the Sultan of Swag', founded Distinctive Assets two decades ago as a private showroom for costume designers for television shows. In 2000, he started distributing branded gifts to celebrities backstage at the Grammys. Now Fary, 48, produces gift suites for nearly every top awards show, including the Tonys and American Music Awards. In so many years, there has been this only one time when a nominee has not accepted the Oscars gift bag which is an annual thing. Last year, Glenn Close, nominated for 'The Wife', asked to donate it to a women's charity in her name. So far, none of the 2020 nominees have turned down Distinctive Assets. Also read: Oscar-nominated 'Parasite' review Oscars: The most shocking outfits on the red carpet over the years

Oscars 2020: Find out what's inside $215,000 gift bag of nominees this year

April Reign remembers precisely where she was in January 2015 when she launched the #OscarsSoWhite movement with a simple, offhand tweet.

"I'd love to have a sexy story that I was sitting in a board room ideating and strategizing," she told to a news agency&nbsp;in an interview.&nbsp;"But no -- I was half-dressed in my family room, to be very frank. "I picked up my phone and wrote, '#OscarsSoWhite they asked to touch my hair.' That was it."

Within hours, the tweet sent from Washington, as Reign followed the Oscar nominations announcement over breakfast, and realized all 20 actors were white had gone viral worldwide.&nbsp;

Five years later, the phrase has become a universal clarion call for more diversity at the Oscars, in Hollywood and the entertainment industry in general.

But the hashtag made an unwelcome return to Twitter this month as the 2020 Oscar shortlists were announced by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Cynthia Erivo was the only actress of colour to earn a nomination, for anti-slavery biopic 'Harriet'.&nbsp;All of the male acting nominees were white. Industry website&nbsp;called the announcement "basically #OscarsSoWhite Part 2."

For Reign, a former Washington campaign finance lawyer who quit her job in the US capital and now works on inclusion and representation issues full-time, it was no great surprise. 
 
"We are now in year six, and every single year #OscarsSoWhite is mentioned again," she said. "I would love to see an endpoint but the end comes when we no longer have to talk about issues of inclusion and representation."

Underlying Reign's viral message about the Oscars is a much more expansive campaign to force Hollywood to boost diversity, broaden its horizons and stop relying on old habits and closed-shop networks.

Reign says this is something studios have shown themselves incapable, or unwilling, to do. "Outside activists or advocates are incredibly important -- to say, you know, we're out here, we want to be represented," she told AFP.

"I think that there is something interesting about speaking truth to power from the outside."

Reign points out that campaigners such as singer Harry Belafonte and actress Rita Moreno have been banging the diversity drum in entertainment for decades.

But the "significant and undeniable power of social media" particularly its high levels of engagement make the message harder to ignore these days.

Besides the sheer weight of numbers a viral campaign can attract, activists believe they can succeed by exposing the dirty secrets of the industry and its gatekeepers.&nbsp;

For Reign, spreading awareness about the Oscar-voting Academy is key. Membership is 84 per cent white, 68 per cent male, and voters are not required to watch every nominated movie.

"Why do regular audience members who are much more diverse care what older white men think is the best movie of the year?" she said, noting the Oscars' falling viewership.

Progress so far is slow but evident. Since 2015, the Academy has made concerted efforts to broaden its membership.

The annual intake of new members reached 50 per cent female for the first time in 2019, while non-white membership has doubled in five years.

But less than one-third admitted were people of colour. "The curtain has been pulled back, right? And we see what the Wizard of Oz looks like," said Reign.&nbsp;

April Reign remembers precisely where she was in January 2015 when she launched the #OscarsSoWhite movement with a simple, offhand tweet. "I'd love to have a sexy story that I was sitting in a board room ideating and strategizing," she told to a news agency in an interview.

April Reign remembers precisely where she was in January 2015 when she launched the #OscarsSoWhite movement with a simple, offhand tweet. "I'd love to have a sexy story that I was sitting in a board room ideating and strategizing," she told to a news agency in an interview. "But no -- I was half-dressed in my family room, to be very frank. "I picked up my phone and wrote, '#OscarsSoWhite they asked to touch my hair.' That was it." Within hours, the tweet sent from Washington, as Reign followed the Oscar nominations announcement over breakfast, and realized all 20 actors were white had gone viral worldwide. Five years later, the phrase has become a universal clarion call for more diversity at the Oscars, in Hollywood and the entertainment industry in general. But the hashtag made an unwelcome return to Twitter this month as the 2020 Oscar shortlists were announced by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Cynthia Erivo was the only actress of colour to earn a nomination, for anti-slavery biopic 'Harriet'. All of the male acting nominees were white. Industry website called the announcement "basically #OscarsSoWhite Part 2." For Reign, a former Washington campaign finance lawyer who quit her job in the US capital and now works on inclusion and representation issues full-time, it was no great surprise. "We are now in year six, and every single year #OscarsSoWhite is mentioned again," she said. "I would love to see an endpoint but the end comes when we no longer have to talk about issues of inclusion and representation." Underlying Reign's viral message about the Oscars is a much more expansive campaign to force Hollywood to boost diversity, broaden its horizons and stop relying on old habits and closed-shop networks. Reign says this is something studios have shown themselves incapable, or unwilling, to do. "Outside activists or advocates are incredibly important -- to say, you know, we're out here, we want to be represented," she told AFP. "I think that there is something interesting about speaking truth to power from the outside." Reign points out that campaigners such as singer Harry Belafonte and actress Rita Moreno have been banging the diversity drum in entertainment for decades. But the "significant and undeniable power of social media" particularly its high levels of engagement make the message harder to ignore these days. Besides the sheer weight of numbers a viral campaign can attract, activists believe they can succeed by exposing the dirty secrets of the industry and its gatekeepers. For Reign, spreading awareness about the Oscar-voting Academy is key. Membership is 84 per cent white, 68 per cent male, and voters are not required to watch every nominated movie. "Why do regular audience members who are much more diverse care what older white men think is the best movie of the year?" she said, noting the Oscars' falling viewership. Progress so far is slow but evident. Since 2015, the Academy has made concerted efforts to broaden its membership. The annual intake of new members reached 50 per cent female for the first time in 2019, while non-white membership has doubled in five years. But less than one-third admitted were people of colour. "The curtain has been pulled back, right? And we see what the Wizard of Oz looks like," said Reign.

#OscarsSoWhite: the Hollywood 'hashtag' activists demanding diversity

Hitler's hegemony over Germany and the fascist rule that broke the country's spine is a topic that has been well explored. World War and its futility is one of Hollywood's most tried and tested themes. But Taika Waititi's latest film 'Jojo Rabbit' is the most endearing story on Nazi Germany that one has seen in a long time.

Now, Hitler's brutal rule and his oppression can never have the word endearment attached to it. But Waititi narrates the story of a 10-year-old Jojo- who lives with free-spirited mother Rosie(Scarlett Johansson) in Hitler-ruled Germany. Jojo is part of the young boys' scout club - where young children are trained to be a part of the German army in the future.

While Jojo is a supreme worshipper of Hitler and even has an imaginary friend Adolf (Waititi himself) who is basically the dictator himself--the 10-year-old is still scared of explosions, guns and can't even kill a rabbit much to the amusement of his friends at the camp.

Jojo is obviously brainwashed about Jews and he knows for sure that he will be able to spot one from distance and kill 'it'. Things are fine untill he discovers his mother has hidden a Jew girl in the attic of their house.

Will he turn her in or use it for his convenience, forms the rest of the story.

'Jojo Rabbit' comes at a time when the world over the youth is resisting fascist leaders and state oppression. Slyly and in the most humourous way, the film highlights the way Nazi brainwashed young children to think in certain ways -- that how it would resist any kind of questioning or free-thinking.

Waititi's film is sprinkled with hilarious moments between Jojo and his imaginary friend Adolf who looks like the fascist leader but behaves and reacts like a 10-year-old. The two run at the sight of violence or explosion and even though they keep 'hail hitlering' around they are actually both scared of any kind of aggression.

Young actor Roman Griffin Davis plays Jojo with absolute perfection. He holds the film together and it's from his perspective that the entire story is narrated. Davis is a confident performer and with his charm and perfect comic timing - delivers the most heartwarming performance.

Scarlett Johansson is like a breath of fresh air whenever she comes on the screen. The adult in the house, she tries to reason with her fanatic 10-year-old son with humour and love.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jojo-rabbit-star-archie-yates-signed-for-home-alone-reboot-in-leading-role-267948">Also read:&nbsp;'Jojo Rabbit' star Archie Yates signed for Home Alone reboot in leading role</a>

In a film that talks about Hitler's brutal oppression... The laughs are in plenty and the credit goes to the brilliant screenplay which never slips even in the darkest moment.

Watch Jojo Rabbit for its most humourous take on one of the darkest period of history. Watch it for Waititi' s quirk and Davis' endearing act. It's a film that effectively spreads the importance of freedom and love and futility of war with one clever dig at fascism at a time.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-news-oscars-2020-heres-the-full-list-of-nominees-274061">Oscars 2020: Here's the full list of nominees</a></h2>

Hitler's hegemony over Germany and the fascist rule that broke the country's spine is a topic that has been well explored. World War and its futility is one of Hollywood's most tried and tested themes.

Hitler's hegemony over Germany and the fascist rule that broke the country's spine is a topic that has been well explored. World War and its futility is one of Hollywood's most tried and tested themes. But Taika Waititi's latest film 'Jojo Rabbit' is the most endearing story on Nazi Germany that one has seen in a long time. Now, Hitler's brutal rule and his oppression can never have the word endearment attached to it. But Waititi narrates the story of a 10-year-old Jojo- who lives with free-spirited mother Rosie(Scarlett Johansson) in Hitler-ruled Germany. Jojo is part of the young boys' scout club - where young children are trained to be a part of the German army in the future. While Jojo is a supreme worshipper of Hitler and even has an imaginary friend Adolf (Waititi himself) who is basically the dictator himself--the 10-year-old is still scared of explosions, guns and can't even kill a rabbit much to the amusement of his friends at the camp. Jojo is obviously brainwashed about Jews and he knows for sure that he will be able to spot one from distance and kill 'it'. Things are fine untill he discovers his mother has hidden a Jew girl in the attic of their house. Will he turn her in or use it for his convenience, forms the rest of the story. 'Jojo Rabbit' comes at a time when the world over the youth is resisting fascist leaders and state oppression. Slyly and in the most humourous way, the film highlights the way Nazi brainwashed young children to think in certain ways -- that how it would resist any kind of questioning or free-thinking. Waititi's film is sprinkled with hilarious moments between Jojo and his imaginary friend Adolf who looks like the fascist leader but behaves and reacts like a 10-year-old. The two run at the sight of violence or explosion and even though they keep 'hail hitlering' around they are actually both scared of any kind of aggression. Young actor Roman Griffin Davis plays Jojo with absolute perfection. He holds the film together and it's from his perspective that the entire story is narrated. Davis is a confident performer and with his charm and perfect comic timing - delivers the most heartwarming performance. Scarlett Johansson is like a breath of fresh air whenever she comes on the screen. The adult in the house, she tries to reason with her fanatic 10-year-old son with humour and love. Also read: 'Jojo Rabbit' star Archie Yates signed for Home Alone reboot in leading role In a film that talks about Hitler's brutal oppression... The laughs are in plenty and the credit goes to the brilliant screenplay which never slips even in the darkest moment. Watch Jojo Rabbit for its most humourous take on one of the darkest period of history. Watch it for Waititi' s quirk and Davis' endearing act. It's a film that effectively spreads the importance of freedom and love and futility of war with one clever dig at fascism at a time. Oscars 2020: Here's the full list of nominees

'Jojo Rabbit' review: Taika Waititi's satire on fascism is all heart

We have all been aware of it almost our entire life. Some of us address it, while others tend to overlook but filmmaker Bong Jong Ho's latest film 'Parasite' makes class divide glaring and obvious leaving you numb and perhaps more conscious of your surroundings.&nbsp;

Celebrated for his sharp interpretation of society in films like 'Okja' and 'Memories of Murder', Joon&nbsp;Ho's 'Parasite' scathes the underlying differences between classes in the society and how it leads to greed, envy and subsequently crime. With a brilliant screenplay by Han Ji Won and Joon-Ho himself, the film keeps its wry humour intact and hooked with its numerous, unexpected twists.&nbsp;

Divulging too much of the plot would give out the story but to explain it simply, the family of four headed by Ki-taek (Song Kang-ho) wife Chung-sook (Chang Hyae-jin), son Ki-woo (Choi Woo-shik) and daughter Ki-jung (Park So-dam) have no money and no jobs. Living in a semi-basement in the seedy bylane of the big city in South Korea, they live a life on burrowed things including a WiFi connection that they have hacked from their neighbour's.&nbsp;

A friend of Ki-woo introduces him to the Park family where he has to give English tuition to their teenage daughter Park Da-hye( Jeong Ji-so). Ki-woo manages to impress the gullible mother Yeon-gyo( Cho Yeo-jeong ) with fake degrees and starts teaching the daughter. He also gets his sister to teach the younger son art- even though the two do not disclose that they are siblings. Ki-Jung eventually gets the driver of the family ousted on false charges of sexual perversion and gets father Ki-taek employed as the driver and he, in turn, brings his wife as the housekeeper as their original one mysteriously develops a life-threatening disease.&nbsp; 
As the family of four suddenly get exposed to the wealth and comfort of Parker household, they feel all their worries are now over- after all, they all are employed. But a night, while the Parker family is out camping and the Ki-taek and his family lay seige on their sprawling bungalow just till their employers are away, things start going off their script and they grapple to cover up the lies that they have spewing for so long.&nbsp;

Jong-ho uses stairs- inside the house, in the city - to define the stark divide between the rich and the impoverished. The film has some great camerawork by Hong Kyung-Pyo and each of his frames define the film and the context well. From the dark, dimly lit alleys of a secret bunker to the clean, structured frames of Parker family home to the cramped spaces of Ki-taek's dwelling on the road- each frame comes alive with great detailing. Music by Jung Jae-il too enhances the narrative- making you hooked to the twists that are sprawled over the two-hour story.&nbsp;

Jong ho's film not only excels in performance and storytelling but the film is a beautiful example of showing a dark twisted tale effectively through great camerawork, screenplay and music. The story may all be too familiar for Asians but it still makes for a compelling watch.&nbsp;

It has earned a whopping 10 nominations at the Oscars this year, and rightfully so. Because even if in India, we have seen films on class divide (albeit through love stories) it still makes for a very thrilling, engaging film- that stays with you, makes you think even after you have left the theatre.&nbsp;

We have all been aware of it almost our entire life. Some of us address it, while others tend to overlook but filmmaker Bong Jong Ho's latest film 'Parasite' makes class divide glaring and obvious leaving you numb and perhaps more conscious of your surroundings.

We have all been aware of it almost our entire life. Some of us address it, while others tend to overlook but filmmaker Bong Jong Ho's latest film 'Parasite' makes class divide glaring and obvious leaving you numb and perhaps more conscious of your surroundings. Celebrated for his sharp interpretation of society in films like 'Okja' and 'Memories of Murder', Joon Ho's 'Parasite' scathes the underlying differences between classes in the society and how it leads to greed, envy and subsequently crime. With a brilliant screenplay by Han Ji Won and Joon-Ho himself, the film keeps its wry humour intact and hooked with its numerous, unexpected twists. Divulging too much of the plot would give out the story but to explain it simply, the family of four headed by Ki-taek (Song Kang-ho) wife Chung-sook (Chang Hyae-jin), son Ki-woo (Choi Woo-shik) and daughter Ki-jung (Park So-dam) have no money and no jobs. Living in a semi-basement in the seedy bylane of the big city in South Korea, they live a life on burrowed things including a WiFi connection that they have hacked from their neighbour's. A friend of Ki-woo introduces him to the Park family where he has to give English tuition to their teenage daughter Park Da-hye( Jeong Ji-so). Ki-woo manages to impress the gullible mother Yeon-gyo( Cho Yeo-jeong ) with fake degrees and starts teaching the daughter. He also gets his sister to teach the younger son art- even though the two do not disclose that they are siblings. Ki-Jung eventually gets the driver of the family ousted on false charges of sexual perversion and gets father Ki-taek employed as the driver and he, in turn, brings his wife as the housekeeper as their original one mysteriously develops a life-threatening disease. As the family of four suddenly get exposed to the wealth and comfort of Parker household, they feel all their worries are now over- after all, they all are employed. But a night, while the Parker family is out camping and the Ki-taek and his family lay seige on their sprawling bungalow just till their employers are away, things start going off their script and they grapple to cover up the lies that they have spewing for so long. Jong-ho uses stairs- inside the house, in the city - to define the stark divide between the rich and the impoverished. The film has some great camerawork by Hong Kyung-Pyo and each of his frames define the film and the context well. From the dark, dimly lit alleys of a secret bunker to the clean, structured frames of Parker family home to the cramped spaces of Ki-taek's dwelling on the road- each frame comes alive with great detailing. Music by Jung Jae-il too enhances the narrative- making you hooked to the twists that are sprawled over the two-hour story. Jong ho's film not only excels in performance and storytelling but the film is a beautiful example of showing a dark twisted tale effectively through great camerawork, screenplay and music. The story may all be too familiar for Asians but it still makes for a compelling watch. It has earned a whopping 10 nominations at the Oscars this year, and rightfully so. Because even if in India, we have seen films on class divide (albeit through love stories) it still makes for a very thrilling, engaging film- that stays with you, makes you think even after you have left the theatre.

'Parasite' review: Bong Joon-Ho's film on class divide is a masterclass in storytelling

Controversial director Roman Polanski is again in news. The director 's latest film ‘An Officer and a Spy’ found a place in the nominations list for the 45th César awards for French cinema, an equivalent of French Oscars. The nomination hasn't gone down well with many. 
 
After cancelling several shows of her current world topur, Madonna finally took to stage in London and perfromed while wearing knee supports.&nbsp; 
 
As we gear up for Hollywood's biggest night, the Academy has announced its performers for the night. Here are the top stories of the day. 
 
Roman Polanski sparks outrage as his film gets nominated in French Oscars 
 
Roman Polanski is back in the news after his film ‘An Officer and a Spy’, or ‘J'accuse in French’ recently found a place in the nominations list for the 45th César awards for French cinema, an equivalent of French Oscars. &nbsp;Polanksi has received 12 nominations at the César awards. The news has sparked outrage as Roman Polanski was convicted of statutory rape in 1977.&nbsp; 
 
Read more: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/roman-polanski-sparks-outrage-as-his-film-gets-nominated-in-french-oscars-277540">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/roman-polanski-sparks-outrage-as-his-film-gets-nominated-in-french-oscars-277540</a>

Brad Pitt becomes internet's latest obsession after he's seen wearing name tag at Oscars 2020 luncheon 
 
It was the Oscars luncheon yesterday when Brad Pitt along with other nominees of this year attended the meet and greet session. Apart from his handsome looks that people are always talking about, something else caught the fancy of most social media users -- the name tag that he wore. 
 
Read more: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-brad-pitt-becomes-internets-latest-obsession-after-hes-seen-wearing-name-tag-at-oscars-2020-luncheon-277463">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-brad-pitt-becomes-internets-latest-obsession-after-hes-seen-wearing-name-tag-at-oscars-2020-luncheon-277463</a>

Oscars 2020: Elton John, Cynthia Erivo, Billie Eilish to perform on the awards night 
 
On Thursday, the Academy Awards show producers Lynette Howell Taylor and Stephanie Allain announced that the nominees of Best Orginal Song will be performing at the awards ceremony.&nbsp; 
 
Read more: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-news-hollywood-news-oscars-2020-elton-john-cynthia-erivo-billie-eilish-and-others-to-perform-on-the-awards-night-276301">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-news-hollywood-news-oscars-2020-elton-john-cynthia-erivo-billie-eilish-and-others-to-perform-on-the-awards-night-276301</a>

Madonna world tour is on as singer performs in London wearing knee supports post injury 
 
The singer is back on stage and has resumed her Madame X world tour as she performed last night in London wearing knee support and made no mention of "indescribable" pain that she has been experiencing recently.&nbsp; 
 
Read more: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-madonna-world-tour-is-on-as-singer-performs-in-london-wearing-knee-supports-post-injury-277449">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-madonna-world-tour-is-on-as-singer-performs-in-london-wearing-knee-supports-post-injury-277449</a>

Oscar-nominated film 'Marriage Story' director believes his leads gave 'so much of themselves' to the project 
 
Despite it's challenging subject matter, director Noah Baumbach said it was fun working on 'Marriage Story', his tense divorce drama that's up for six Academy Awards. 
 
Read more: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscar-nominated-film-marriage-story-director-believes-his-leads-gave-so-much-of-themselves-to-the-project-277444">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscar-nominated-film-marriage-story-director-believes-his-leads-gave-so-much-of-themselves-to-the-project-277444</a>

Controversial director Roman Polanski is again in news. The director 's latest film ‘An Officer and a Spy’ found a place in the nominations list for the 45th César awards for French cinema, an equivalent of French Oscars.

Controversial director Roman Polanski is again in news. The director 's latest film ‘An Officer and a Spy’ found a place in the nominations list for the 45th César awards for French cinema, an equivalent of French Oscars. The nomination hasn't gone down well with many. After cancelling several shows of her current world topur, Madonna finally took to stage in London and perfromed while wearing knee supports. As we gear up for Hollywood's biggest night, the Academy has announced its performers for the night. Here are the top stories of the day. Roman Polanski sparks outrage as his film gets nominated in French Oscars Roman Polanski is back in the news after his film ‘An Officer and a Spy’, or ‘J'accuse in French’ recently found a place in the nominations list for the 45th César awards for French cinema, an equivalent of French Oscars. Polanksi has received 12 nominations at the César awards. The news has sparked outrage as Roman Polanski was convicted of statutory rape in 1977. Read more: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/roman-polanski-sparks-outrage-as-his-film-gets-nominated-in-french-oscars-277540 Brad Pitt becomes internet's latest obsession after he's seen wearing name tag at Oscars 2020 luncheon It was the Oscars luncheon yesterday when Brad Pitt along with other nominees of this year attended the meet and greet session. Apart from his handsome looks that people are always talking about, something else caught the fancy of most social media users -- the name tag that he wore. Read more: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-brad-pitt-becomes-internets-latest-obsession-after-hes-seen-wearing-name-tag-at-oscars-2020-luncheon-277463 Oscars 2020: Elton John, Cynthia Erivo, Billie Eilish to perform on the awards night On Thursday, the Academy Awards show producers Lynette Howell Taylor and Stephanie Allain announced that the nominees of Best Orginal Song will be performing at the awards ceremony. Read more: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-news-hollywood-news-oscars-2020-elton-john-cynthia-erivo-billie-eilish-and-others-to-perform-on-the-awards-night-276301 Madonna world tour is on as singer performs in London wearing knee supports post injury The singer is back on stage and has resumed her Madame X world tour as she performed last night in London wearing knee support and made no mention of "indescribable" pain that she has been experiencing recently. Read more: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-madonna-world-tour-is-on-as-singer-performs-in-london-wearing-knee-supports-post-injury-277449 Oscar-nominated film 'Marriage Story' director believes his leads gave 'so much of themselves' to the project Despite it's challenging subject matter, director Noah Baumbach said it was fun working on 'Marriage Story', his tense divorce drama that's up for six Academy Awards. Read more: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscar-nominated-film-marriage-story-director-believes-his-leads-gave-so-much-of-themselves-to-the-project-277444

Top 5 Hollywood news today: Roman Polanski sparks outrage again, Madonna performs with knee supports

Oscars 2020: 21 movies you should watch before the awards night

Much like 2019, the 2020 Oscars ceremony in February will again have no host- a fact that was confirmed by the head of ABC Television Entertainment on Wednesday. 
 
"Let me confirm it now. Together with the Academy (of Motion Pictures), we have decided there will be no traditional host again this year," Karey Burke, president of ABC Entertainment, told television reporters in Los Angeles. 
 
The 2019 Oscars was the first in 30 years to have no host and saw the audience on broadcaster ABC rise to 29.6 million Americans, breaking a four-year trend of falling viewership for the live ceremony. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-21-movies-you-should-watch-before-the-awards-night-273034#the-farewell-272987">Also see:&nbsp;Oscars 2020: 21 movies you should watch before the awards night</a> 
 
Burke said the decision not to have a host for the February&nbsp;9 event, the most prestigious awards in the movie business, was prompted by good reviews last year when rock band Queen opened the show with a live performance to celebrate the box office success of the musical 'Bohemian Rhapsody.' 
 
Burke said organizers planned on "repeating what worked for us last year - huge entertainment value, big musical numbers, big comedy." 
 
"A lot of incredible elements have already come together and convinced us that we are going to have an incredibly entertaining show again," she added, without giving details. 
 
Nominations for the 2020 Oscars will be announced on Monday. 
 
Finding a host for big awards show has become increasingly difficult in recent years. Comedian Kevin Hart pulled out of the 2019 Oscars job after being slammed on social media for homophobic comments he had made in the past. He apologised. 
 
Other comedians, including <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/harvey-weinstein-to-martin-scorsese-host-ricky-gervais-spares-no-one-at-golden-globes-272469">Ricky Gervais at Sunday`s Golden Globes</a>, have met with criticism for being either too harsh, too political, or too soft in their jokes.

Much like 2019, the 2020 Oscars ceremony in February will again have no host- a fact that was confirmed by the head of ABC Television Entertainment on Wednesday.

Much like 2019, the 2020 Oscars ceremony in February will again have no host- a fact that was confirmed by the head of ABC Television Entertainment on Wednesday. "Let me confirm it now. Together with the Academy (of Motion Pictures), we have decided there will be no traditional host again this year," Karey Burke, president of ABC Entertainment, told television reporters in Los Angeles. The 2019 Oscars was the first in 30 years to have no host and saw the audience on broadcaster ABC rise to 29.6 million Americans, breaking a four-year trend of falling viewership for the live ceremony. Also see: Oscars 2020: 21 movies you should watch before the awards night Burke said the decision not to have a host for the February 9 event, the most prestigious awards in the movie business, was prompted by good reviews last year when rock band Queen opened the show with a live performance to celebrate the box office success of the musical 'Bohemian Rhapsody.' Burke said organizers planned on "repeating what worked for us last year - huge entertainment value, big musical numbers, big comedy." "A lot of incredible elements have already come together and convinced us that we are going to have an incredibly entertaining show again," she added, without giving details. Nominations for the 2020 Oscars will be announced on Monday. Finding a host for big awards show has become increasingly difficult in recent years. Comedian Kevin Hart pulled out of the 2019 Oscars job after being slammed on social media for homophobic comments he had made in the past. He apologised. Other comedians, including Ricky Gervais at Sunday`s Golden Globes, have met with criticism for being either too harsh, too political, or too soft in their jokes.

Oscars to go host-less for the second year in a row

Ever since the British Academy of Film and Television Arts announced its nominations list for this year, there have been talks about the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bafta-gets-criticised-for-being-racist-after-no-non-white-actor-makes-it-to-nominations-list-272791">awards being racist </a>with no acting award honours being given to a non-white actor. In fact, one particular actor Margot Robbie was nominated twice in the same acting category against herself while no non-white actor was credited for their performance. This is in stark comparison with the Golden Globes 2020 as the 77th awards show celebrated diversity in a rather inclusive manner with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/77th-golden-globe-awards-sam-mendes-quentin-tarantino-joaquin-phoenix-win-top-honours-272448">many non-white actors</a> winning important awards at the ceremony. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/2020-golden-globes-awards-the-complete-list-of-winners-272377">Read the complete list of Golden Globes winners here.&nbsp;</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/77th-golden-globes-australia-fires-abortion-rights-and-other-issues-that-dominated-awards-night-272537https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/77th-golden-globes-australia-fires-abortion-rights-and-other-issues-that-dominated-awards-night-272537">Also read: 77th Golden Globes: Australia fires, abortion rights and other issues that dominated awards night</a>

But this brings us to the topic of diversity and inclusivity in the Academy Awards that are scheduled for February 10 (Indian standard time) while the nominations of the Oscars 2020 will be revealed on January 13. Even though there’s time for the nominations list to be out, social media users are already speculating that Oscars too could go in the BAFTA route and limit big award categories to white actors and especially male artists in Best Director and other such categories. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bafta-2020-british-academy-of-film-and-television-arts-awards-the-complete-nominations-list-272705">Read the complete list of BAFTA 2020 nominations&nbsp;here.&nbsp;</a>

This is not a standalone issue as previously too #OscarsSoWhite has trended on the internet with users accusing the Academy of not highlight the work of women filmmakers with almost all time the Best Director list, not including even a single female director. Even in other categories, it is often seen that only white actors get preference and not non-white actors.&nbsp;

In this year’s example, BAFTA has missed out on Cynthia Erivo’s nomination for ‘Harriet’ while the actress picked up a Screen Actors Guild nomination. BAFTA 2020 also made no mention of Lupita Nyong’o who was amazing in horror film ‘Us’ or Awkwafina who won a Golden Globe for her performance in ‘The Farewell.’ There was no mention of ‘Hustlers’ star Jennifer Lopez also while her acting skills in the film were mentioned ever since the film released.&nbsp;

On the note of Oscars not being very kind to female filmmakers, the Academy has on several occasions missed out on great films and its directors from mentioning them in Best Director list. BAFTA definitely proved that it is sexist when it left Greta Gerwig who directed ‘Little Women’, Lulu Wang for ‘The Farewell’, Lorene Scafaria ‘Hustlers’ and Céline Sciamma for ‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’ among many others that could have made it to the list.

Ever since the British Academy of Film and Television Arts announced its nominations list for this year, there have been talks about the awards being racist with no acting award honours being given to a non-white actor.

Ever since the British Academy of Film and Television Arts announced its nominations list for this year, there have been talks about the awards being racist with no acting award honours being given to a non-white actor. In fact, one particular actor Margot Robbie was nominated twice in the same acting category against herself while no non-white actor was credited for their performance. This is in stark comparison with the Golden Globes 2020 as the 77th awards show celebrated diversity in a rather inclusive manner with many non-white actors winning important awards at the ceremony. Read the complete list of Golden Globes winners here. Also read: 77th Golden Globes: Australia fires, abortion rights and other issues that dominated awards night But this brings us to the topic of diversity and inclusivity in the Academy Awards that are scheduled for February 10 (Indian standard time) while the nominations of the Oscars 2020 will be revealed on January 13. Even though there’s time for the nominations list to be out, social media users are already speculating that Oscars too could go in the BAFTA route and limit big award categories to white actors and especially male artists in Best Director and other such categories. Read the complete list of BAFTA 2020 nominations here. This is not a standalone issue as previously too #OscarsSoWhite has trended on the internet with users accusing the Academy of not highlight the work of women filmmakers with almost all time the Best Director list, not including even a single female director. Even in other categories, it is often seen that only white actors get preference and not non-white actors. In this year’s example, BAFTA has missed out on Cynthia Erivo’s nomination for ‘Harriet’ while the actress picked up a Screen Actors Guild nomination. BAFTA 2020 also made no mention of Lupita Nyong’o who was amazing in horror film ‘Us’ or Awkwafina who won a Golden Globe for her performance in ‘The Farewell.’ There was no mention of ‘Hustlers’ star Jennifer Lopez also while her acting skills in the film were mentioned ever since the film released. On the note of Oscars not being very kind to female filmmakers, the Academy has on several occasions missed out on great films and its directors from mentioning them in Best Director list. BAFTA definitely proved that it is sexist when it left Greta Gerwig who directed ‘Little Women’, Lulu Wang for ‘The Farewell’, Lorene Scafaria ‘Hustlers’ and Céline Sciamma for ‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’ among many others that could have made it to the list.

Will Oscars 2020 follow BAFTA in excluding non-white actors, female directors from key nominations?

Oscars 2020 are approaching and what better time to remember the weirdest stuff related to the world’s most-watched awards show and also one of the most-coveted one. In one incident that is sure to catch your attention, Hollywood actress Salma Hayek almost had a fashion disaster but thanks to Renee Zellweger saving the day, she turned out quite like the princess she is!

Salma Hayek had a meltdown once in the year 2003 when a night before the Oscars that year, she had nothing to wear. When she tried out her Oscars dress a night prior, the dress came off as her “big butt” got in the way and dress started tearing off from the seams.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/will-oscars-2020-follow-bafta-in-leaving-non-white-actors-female-directors-from-key-nominations-273246">Also read: Will Oscars 2020 follow BAFTA in excluding non-white actors, female directors from key nominations?</a>

When she had no Oscars dress and was almost going to not attend as she would have had to turn up in a not-so-great ensemble, her good friend Renee came to her rescue and gave her one of her own dress. As Salma presented Renee the Best Actress award for her performance in 'Judy' at National Board of Review Awards, she narrated an interesting story from 2003. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-to-go-host-less-for-the-second-year-in-a-row-273073">Also read: Oscars to go host-less for the second year in a row</a>

Salma Hayek said, “The night before when my big butt exploded the seams of my Oscar dress and I had no dress for the Oscars. She ended up giving me one of her dresses that, thank God, was wide here [points to butt] and stretchy here [points to breasts]. That’s what I wore for that night.”

Salma was seen in a scintillating Carolina Herrera gown that had a lace bodice in black on top and a white skirt.&nbsp;

See her then photo:

<img alt="salma hayek" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="caf483b1-1300-4c43-840c-43fa42eb3954" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/HORIZONS%20%289%29.jpg" />

Salma was nominated at Oscars 2003 for her role as Mexican painter Frida Kahlo in ‘Frida’ while Renee Zellweger was nominated for her role in ‘Chicago’. The Academy Award, however, went to Nicole Kidman that year as she took home the coveted prize for her role in ‘The Hours’.&nbsp;

On another note, Salma Hayek made it to our list of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/golden-globe-2020-worst-dress-272476#cate-blanchett-272455">worst dressed celebs at the 77th Golden Globes. </a>

Oscars 2020 are approaching and what better time to remember the weirdest stuff related to the world’s most-watched awards show and also one of the most-coveted one.

Oscars 2020 are approaching and what better time to remember the weirdest stuff related to the world’s most-watched awards show and also one of the most-coveted one. In one incident that is sure to catch your attention, Hollywood actress Salma Hayek almost had a fashion disaster but thanks to Renee Zellweger saving the day, she turned out quite like the princess she is! Salma Hayek had a meltdown once in the year 2003 when a night before the Oscars that year, she had nothing to wear. When she tried out her Oscars dress a night prior, the dress came off as her “big butt” got in the way and dress started tearing off from the seams. Also read: Will Oscars 2020 follow BAFTA in excluding non-white actors, female directors from key nominations? When she had no Oscars dress and was almost going to not attend as she would have had to turn up in a not-so-great ensemble, her good friend Renee came to her rescue and gave her one of her own dress. As Salma presented Renee the Best Actress award for her performance in 'Judy' at National Board of Review Awards, she narrated an interesting story from 2003. Also read: Oscars to go host-less for the second year in a row Salma Hayek said, “The night before when my big butt exploded the seams of my Oscar dress and I had no dress for the Oscars. She ended up giving me one of her dresses that, thank God, was wide here [points to butt] and stretchy here [points to breasts]. That’s what I wore for that night.” Salma was seen in a scintillating Carolina Herrera gown that had a lace bodice in black on top and a white skirt. See her then photo: Salma was nominated at Oscars 2003 for her role as Mexican painter Frida Kahlo in ‘Frida’ while Renee Zellweger was nominated for her role in ‘Chicago’. The Academy Award, however, went to Nicole Kidman that year as she took home the coveted prize for her role in ‘The Hours’. On another note, Salma Hayek made it to our list of worst dressed celebs at the 77th Golden Globes.

Salma Hayek's 'big butt' would have led to a fashion disaster at Oscars 2003 if not for Renee Zellweger

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