Reflecting on the Disappointment of the 93rd Academy Awards 2021
To be honest, the 93rd Academy Awards in 2021 didn't disappoint me as much as some people might think it did. While the ceremony certainly had its fair share of issues, it's important to put the low viewership into context amid the ongoing pandemic and the limited number of standout films that year.
Why the Jokes Missed the Mark
One of the most disappointing aspects of the ceremony was the misplaced humor. Take, for instance, Regina King's attempt to be Ricky Gervais. Her opening jokes felt cringe-worthy and off-the-mark. Instead of connecting with the audience, her comments came off as uncomfortable and seemingly mocking the audience's desire to turn off their remotes due to Hollywood clichés.
Similarly, Daniel Kaluya's joke about his mother being horny for not being in a movie was just plain bizarre. Celebrities are supposed to be entertainers, not comedians who might unintentionally alienate and confuse their audience. While jokes are subjective, it's disheartening when they fail to land on a global stage like the Oscars.
The Disconnect Between Celebrities and the Public
A major issue that stood out was the apparent disconnect between celebrities and the general public. Celebrities often claim to care about the everyday struggles of their fans but often fail to live up to their words.
The incident where Hollywood celebrities were filmed kicking homeless people out of an event highlights this inconsistency. While they might prey on social issues, they often ignore the real-world challenges faced by ordinary people. This behavior is not just disrespectful but also hypocritical, given the significant financial resources many celebrities possess.
The Oscars latest offense was their treatment of Chadwick Boseman and Anthony Hopkins. Chadwick Boseman, a beloved actor, passed away unexpectedly, and the show's producers refused to allow a virtual tribute, which would have been a fitting homage to his memory. Meanwhile, Anthony Hopkins, at the age of 85, was denied the opportunity to make a simple, respectful virtual appearance for his late co-stars.
These decisions show a complete disregard for the emotional impact and the tangible efforts required to pay tributes in a sensitive and meaningful manner. The Oscars, it seems, valued ratings over respect and propriety.
Can Hollywood and the Oscars Be Trusted Again?
Given these events, it's easy to question the integrity and trustworthiness of the Hollywood elite. While Sylvester Stallone, Ryan Reynolds, Matthew McConaughey, and Anthony Mackie proved to be exceptions, their actions offer a rare glimpse of genuine caring and social consciousness.
The question remains: Can the Oscars and Hollywood reclaim their former glory and earn back the trust of the public? For that to happen, they need to be more inclusive, more considerate of real-world issues, and more respectful in their treatment of both the deceased and the living.
The 93rd Academy Awards, despite its flaws, highlighted the very issues that need to be addressed to ensure future ceremonies are more engaging, empathetic, and thoughtful. It's time for Hollywood to step up and show they're truly there to entertain and uplift, rather than merely pandering to their own whims.