Entertainment

The idea that a movie like “The Substance,” which initially seemed like a gruesome horror film at Cannes in May, might catapult Moore (a seasoned actor with a couple of Golden Globe nominations from the ’90s) to an Oscar nomination was considered highly unlikely. However, when the film was released in North America during the fall and emerged as Mubi’s highest-grossing movie, it became plausible. By January, it was clear that Coralie Fargeat’s film was resonating with organizations known for awarding statues, such as the Golden Globe Foundation, the Screen Actors Guild, and the Critics Choice Association.

However, the nominations weren’t the only factor causing uncertainty about the movie Anora. One Academy member shared their thoughts: “It’s a bit too explicit for Best Picture.” They were referring to the Academy itself, expressing that despite its liberal reputation, its members tend to have quite conservative preferences when it comes to sexual content. A comedy-drama set in a strip club, directed by someone who had never been recognized by the Oscars before, and with modest box office success? Even for fans of Anora, it was hard not to view it as an underdog, a film that might win a screenplay award but wasn’t seriously considered for the top Oscar.

The opening of the 97th Academy Awards had a theme reminiscent of The Wizard of Oz/Wicked, using the phrase “there’s no place like home.” To establish this connection, visuals from The Wizard of Oz, such as Dorothy’s ruby slippers, and audio clips of Judy Garland saying the iconic line, were used. Ariana Grande started off by singing “Over the Rainbow” in a dress similar to Dorothy’s ruby slippers, followed by Cynthia Erivo singing “Home” from The Wiz, both performances setting the stage for their later joint performance of “Defying Gravity” from Wicked. The entire segment was well-executed and left many viewers with tears and goosebumps, a feeling known as tearbumps. It was undoubtedly an impressive start to the evening’s events.

Brody joins an exclusive group of actors who’ve received more than one Best Actor award, with Marlon Brando, Dustin Hoffman, Jack Nicholson, Sean Penn, and Tom Hanks being among them. In a reflective mood, he talked about the unique opportunities that have led to such acclaim. “Acting is a delicate profession,” he noted. “It may seem glamorous at times, but it’s also very fragile. The one thing I’ve learned from returning here is perspective. Regardless of where you are in your career or what you’ve achieved, everything can change. What makes this occasion special is the awareness that it could all disappear and the gratitude I have for continuing to do the work I love.

In his acceptance speech for Best Director, he took a pause to advocate for movie theaters. He expressed, “Experiencing a film in the theater, alongside an audience, is unique.” He continued, “We share laughter, tears, fear, and silence together. In a world that may seem increasingly divided, this shared experience has never been more crucial.

a political solution free from ethnic superiority, acknowledging the national rights of both peoples. Lastly, he expressed concern that current foreign policy in the U.S. hinders this alternative pathway to peace.

In the fantastical world of Mayfair, Emaleth gave birth to several infants throughout the morning, which were later prepared for a gruesome ritual involving sacrifice and drinking their blood. Lasher met his grisly end twice – once on an altar with a slashed throat, only to be miraculously healed by Rowan moments before death, and then killed again shortly after. A group of Talamasca embarked on a daring mission to save Taltos babies. An intense series of events resulted in the decimation of 90% of the Mayfair lineage. Both Julien and Rowan partook in drinking Lasher’s blood, granting them extraordinary magical abilities. The romantic relationship between Lark and Rowan came to an end permanently. After saving Jojo and Daphne, the team returned to New Orleans. Although it may seem like a thrilling episode, it felt more akin to navigating an overly simplified Escape Room for young children.

In the storyline, Erica, who is not only the Head of Entertainment but also a partner at the firm, has been tasked with managing Dylan Prior on Ted’s behalf due to his busy schedule dealing with Lester’s murder trial. However, there’s an unexpected hitch: Erica appears unfamiliar with Dylan Prior and seems uninterested in film and television matters. This is quite surprising for a character who worked tirelessly to secure her position as the Head of Entertainment, leading viewers to question her industry knowledge. This plot twist, however, makes Leah, Ted’s bumbling associate, useful within the series narrative.

Is it only my perception, or does everything seem reminiscent of the Old Testament narratives? In this ancient tale, a serpent tricked Adam and Eve into consuming from the Tree of Knowledge, leading to their expulsion from Eden by God. However, seldom is the fate of the serpent discussed afterwards. Yet, in the biblical account, God imposed a curse upon it: “On your belly you shall crawl, and dust you shall eat all the days of your life.” This curse has endured for various types of tropical snakes, including vipers and Naja cobras, from Genesis to 2025, when they are said to find a savior who will be modeled after their own slithering form.

The “White Lotus Kill-or-Be-Killed Report” is a regular update on the hotel guests and staff, predicting who might commit or become victims of murder after this week’s episode titled “The Meaning of Dreams.