The 2024 Oscars were a platform to some incredible films and work. However, of course, we must talk about the women who won big this time – because it’s rare to see women win in the main categories anyway. These wins became bigger with the profound and sweet speeches. So we’re also going to talk about those bits – because we must.
Here’s proof:
1. Emma Stone
Emma Stone talked about her very real feelings on stage, and what it felt like winning again. She acknowledged all the other women who were nominated with her. And then went onto talk about all the emotions. The win was particularly special, given the character that Emma Stone played in Poor Things. However, this speech was as refreshing as it gets.
2. Da’Vine Joy Randolph
Da’Vine Joy Randolph won her first Oscar for The Holdovers. In her winning speech, the actor talked about being the only black woman in most set-ups, and how it made her feel. Her speech was about the time when she didn’t consider herself an actor. And so, she went on to talk about the people who made her believe in herself. It was beautiful and very honest.
3. Billie Eilish
What Was I Made For? made us feel things that we were not ready to – but hey, good thing. Eilish’s Oscar speech was a reminder that Barbie did a lot for the female audiences last year and we must never forget that. She mentioned that she was not prepared for this win, but after it did happen, she thanked Greta Gerwig for most of it – for the film and more.
4. Justine Triet
Anatomy of a Fall has swept a number of awards this season, and deservingly so. The Oscar win stands special, though. Justine Triet, who is the director of the film mentioned the circumstances in which she started working on this specific project – whilst being a mother during the pandemic. She also then laughed about the fact that this win should help her with her mid-life crisis.
5. Kiyoko Shibuya
VFX supervisor, Kiyoko Shibuya became (only) the third woman to win an Oscar in the category of ‘best visual effects’. Kiyoko, who was joined by director Takashi Yamazaki. They talked about how this one win will open new opportunities for other filmmakers and creators in Japan. They also mentioned that box office numbers and wins bring a sense of sustenance to the industry. In a way, inclusive cinema boils down to inclusive opportunities.
These moments, let’s call them magic – were happy, bittersweet, honest and very close to home.
