Academy Awards (Oscars)

The Academy Awards, commonly known as the Oscars, is an annual event recognizing excellence in the film industry. Organized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), the ceremony has been held since 1929 and is considered one of the most prestigious honors in cinema. Taking place in Los Angeles, the event gathers actors, directors, producers, and industry professionals at venues such as the Dolby Theatre, which has hosted the ceremony since 2002.

The Oscars celebrate achievements in categories including Best Picture, Best Director, and acting awards, among others. Winners receive the iconic Oscar statuette, a gold-plated figure designed by sculptor George Stanley and officially named the Academy Award of Merit. The ceremony has evolved over the decades, incorporating technological advancements, expanding representation within the industry, and reflecting cultural shifts in cinema.

Since its inception, the event has been a major broadcast spectacle, initially covered by radio before transitioning to television in 1953. The red carpet, a hallmark of the Oscars, showcases high-fashion moments and remains a global focal point for media coverage. The Academy Awards have seen historic milestones, such as Hattie McDaniel becoming the first Black winner in 1940 and Bong Joon-ho’s "Parasite" earning Best Picture in 2020 as the first non-English-language film to do so.