Image: Commons Wikimedia
The Oscars this year unfolded with over three hours of glitz, emotions, and unexpected moments.
Here's a glimpse into the highlights of Hollywood's grandest night.
Ryan Gosling
Ryan Gosling, known for his acting prowess, surprised everyone with a spirited performance of "I'm Just Ken," a hit from the Barbie movie.
The Oscar-nominated original song had Gosling starting the act behind Margot Robbie, his Barbie co-star. Robbie couldn't contain her laughter as Gosling serenaded her.
Dressed in an all-pink tuxedo, Gosling took the performance to the stage, where a choreographed routine unfolded with a group of Kens in cowboy hats.
The lively concert atmosphere was further heightened by Slash, who joined in for an electrifying guitar solo.
The choreography even sparked speculation of a homage to "Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend."
Gosling's infectious energy had the star-studded front row, including Emma Stone and director Greta Gerwig, singing along.
The enthusiasm reached its peak when Stone experienced a wardrobe malfunction, struggling with the back of her dress on her way to collect the Best Actress Award.
Jimmy Kimmel
Jimmy Kimmel, hosting the Oscars for the fourth time, showcased his seasoned skills. In his monologue, he acknowledged the Hollywood strikes, highlighting the actors and writers who championed the deal, bringing humor with a touch of social commentary.
Kimmel's exchange with Donald Trump on Truth Social garnered attention, with the former president criticising Kimmel's hosting skills.
Kimmel fired back on stage, adding a playful jab about Trump's past legal issues.
However, not all jokes landed smoothly, as a reference to Robert Downey Jr's history of substance abuse drew mixed reactions, even prompting a "wrap it up" gesture from Downey Jr himself. Downey Jr, notably, skipped the winners' room, maintaining a cool demeanor.
Israel-Gaza protests
The shadow of the Israel-Gaza conflict loomed over Hollywood, with protestors causing disruptions on the streets.
Inside the ceremony, stars like Billie Eilish, Mark Ruffalo, and Ramy Youssef wore red pins supporting a ceasefire.
British director Jonathan Glazer, accepting the Best International Film award, expressed his rejection of the use of Jewish identity and the Holocaust in the context of the conflict.
Da'Vine Joy Randolph
Da'Vine Joy Randolph's emotional moment, moved to tears by Lupita Nyong'o's introduction, was a standout. Randolph later won Best Supporting Actress, delivering a heartfelt speech about embracing individuality and encouraging creatives from under-represented backgrounds.
John Cena
John Cena's memorable appearance, prompted by Kimmel, added a humorous touch.
Cena, entirely naked except for Birkenstocks, presented the award for costume design with a cleverly placed envelope.
Al Pacino
Al Pacino's announcement of the Best Picture winner kept the audience on edge, reminiscent of the Moonlight/La La Land mix-up in 2017. Fortunately, no correction was needed.
Messi
Adding a touch of charm, Messi, the canine star from the best picture-nominated "Anatomy of a Fall," attended the ceremony, sporting a black bow-tie. Messi even made a cameo, applauding Robert Downey Jr's win.
