For those of you who know me or read my blog, you know I'm wild, nutty, crazy obsessive about movies and movie history. In honor of my obsession, and in tribute to tomorrow night's Academy Award's, here are a few awards I'd give out:
THE Best Oscar Moment
As a streaker ran past David Niven during the 1974 ceremonies, he kept it together until the audience's laughter died down enough to say my favorite Oscar quip.
Best Oscar Speech
In 2002, when Russell Crowe won Best Actor for "A Beautiful Mind", he was humble and touching. I loved his line about being "on the downside of advantage."
Best Honorary Oscar
The comic actor and filmmaker, Charlie Chaplin, left the U.S. in 1952. Soon after, Attorney General James P. McGranery stated Chaplin would be allowed back into the States only after submitting to an interview regarding his political views and moral behavior. In 1972, Chaplin returned for the first time in 20 years to receive a special Oscar. He was given a 12 minute standing ovation, the longest in Oscar history.
The First Televised Academy Awards (Bob Hope, host)
I'm a sucker for Hollywood nostalgia, so I love watching vintage clips of what the Oscars looked before Joan Rivers began asking that annoying question, "Who are you wearing tonight?"
Best of Sore Losers
This clip is not only from the Oscars. I was in agreement with Elton John's anti-lip syncing rant against Madonna for winning Best Live Act.
Award for Touching our Hearts Twice
Christopher Plummer stole my heart twice. Once was when he sang the song "Edelweiss" in the movie, "The Sound of Music." The other was when he won his 2012 Best Supporting Actor Oscar (the oldest person to ever receive one, at age 82) for the movie "Beginners." Well-deserved.
There have been so many other special moments that have touched my heart over the years. I hope the 2014 presentation will add some others to my list.
What are your favorite Oscar moments?
I love all of these memories. I have so many favorites but if asked what they are I will never remember. I have a few Academy Award books. When I look through them I am reminded of all the highlights. That's why I love those books. However I haven't bought a new one in a while so I doubt I have anything from this century.
I forgot about the streaker behind David Niven! 🙂 I also loved: when Adrian Brody kissed Halle Berry - it was just sooooo crazy and unexpected!! And when Roberto Benigno won and jumped on top of all the chairs! That was another very unexpected moment. Thanks for the walk down memory lane, looking forward to watching them this Sunday!
This was a great trip down memory lane! It's getting me in the mood for Sunday night. I personally love the walks down the red carpet--I love the gowns so much!
What fun! I'm so excited for the Oscars (as you well know).
Cathy,
I love all of these moments . But who could forget Cher winning her Oscar for Moonlight (Just snap out of it) wearing her outlandish but oh-so-Cher outfit! One of my faves!
Estelle
You picked some great excerpts--an enjoyable time with them this morning, thank you!
I loved *all* of these moments... well, watching them in later years, for most. 😀 Many of these were included in a CNN special on the Oscars, which my hubby and I watched last night. Great documentary with interesting angles (such as McCarthy's blacklist). I ♥ the movies... and am so thankful my husband does as much as I do.
Cheers to the Oscars!
I don't remember the Russell Crowe speech. I hope we get to watch one that touching tonight!
Those were great moments, as were the others mentioned in the comments. I wonder which moments will become legendary tonight? The excitement is building! Enjoyed this post, Cathy!