Hollywood’s Dolby Theater was packed with all the glitz and glam of the celebrity life on February 24^th, at the 85^th annual Academy Awards. This event kicked off with the traditional Red Carpet, where the paparazzi lined the path to catch the best photo opportunities possible. Familiar faces were recognized, and new ones were welcomed. One notable newcomer was Quyenzhané “Q” Wallis, the youngest Oscar nominee ever. This nine-year old girl proudly walked down the Red Carpet with her mom and older sister by her side. More and more celebrities kept entering the event, until finally, the grandiose award ceremony began!

Seth MacFarlane kicked off the “Music in Film”-themed Academy Awards making sure to incorporate his sense of humor into his position as host. While some of MacFarlane’s jokes were considered more offensive than funny, he still managed to pull off the night in good spirit.  The “Music in Film” theme kept up the whole night with some phenomenal performances. Per usual, Adele gave everyone chills with her stellar voice, and “Skyfall” wound up winning her the Oscar for Best Original Song- congrats to Adele! The cast of Les Misérables sang as well, and their performance was not to be missed. This breathtaking ensemble got a standing ovation from everyone in the theater (and I am sure some people at home, too!). It is no wonder Anne Hathaway won Best Supporting Actress from her role in Les Misérables. The emotion she brought to the table throughout the entire film was impeccable, and she absolutely deserved the Oscar. Best Leading Actress went to Jennifer Lawrence for Silver Linings Playbook. Despite her trip on her way up the steps to receive the award, Jennifer was able to keep her cool, laugh it off, and accept her award with pride and happiness. Winning the equally prestigious award, actor Daniel Day-Lewis won the Oscar for Best Leading Actor for his role in Lincoln.  While his speech was great, Ben Affleck truly showed his emotions in his speech when his film, Argo, won Best Motion Picture (along with winning Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Achievement in Film Editing). He thanked his family, friends, everyone that participated in any way in Argo. He also expressed his congratulations for all the other films nominated, as well. I definitely agree with Affleck on that note. Not only did the Oscar winners completely deserve all this praise, so did every other and actor/actress nominee. This was one great year in the film industry!

So another annual Academy Awards was wrapped up. People were left with laughter, some with tears of joy, and others with unfading smiles. Those emotions do not only describe the stars who were at the Oscars, but also describe the reactions from viewers at home. This year’s show brought in a pool of 40.3 million viewers (on ABC), an impressive number. Good chance MacFarlane was one of the contributors to this large count. These viewers were so captivated by the set of this year’s Oscars. The Art Deco design with the Oscar statuette as the motif was picturesque for that night. People just cannot stop talking about what an exquisite set it was! As usual, the 2013 Oscars was full of all the excitement that any show should have. From the music and performances, to the set, to the presenters, this awards show will definitely be tough to beat. I am looking forward to seeing what next year’s Academy Awards will have in store.

Source: New York Times. www.nytimes.com/2013/02/26/movies/awardsseason/higher-ratings-and-controversly.html