In the luminous ambiance of the David Geffen Theatre in Los Angeles, stars aligned, literally and metaphorically, as the Oscar nominees of the year congregated for the much-anticipated annual “class photo”. This tradition, which serves as a prelude to the Academy Awards, paints a vivid tableau of talent and camaraderie. Notably, the gathering included luminaries like Ariana Grande, Timothée Chalamet, and Demi Moore, who mingled with their peers in an event suffused with excitement and anticipation.
Front Row Favorites: Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, two of the most talked-about names this season, were prominently positioned at the forefront of the photo. Their recent work on the screen adaptation of Wicked has not only captivated audiences but has also seen them form a heartwarming bond, evident in their interactions during the event. Before the camera captured the moment, Cynthia Erivo’s call for nominees to shout “Oscar nominee!” instead of the traditional “cheese” highlighted the unique spirit of the occasion. Their upcoming performance at the Oscars, a medley from Wicked, is eagerly awaited and promises to be a highlight of the ceremony.
Fashion Forward: Maya Gnyp’s Sweater Steals the Spotlight
As seasons shift towards spring, the attire choices of the nominees also mirrored the change. Maya Gnyp, a producer of the documentary short I Am Ready, Warden, stood out with her colorful, cozy sweater. Gnyp’s choice of wardrobe not only accentuated her personal style but also her film, which offers a poignant look at the final days of a Texas death row inmate.
A Gathering of Titans: Zoe Saldaña and Fellow Nominees
The front row was a constellation of cinematic talent with Zoe Saldaña, who is poised to clinch the Best Supporting Actress for her role in Emilia Pérez. Alongside her were Mikey Madison and Monica Barbaro, each embodying grace and poise as they navigated the highly competitive awards season. Their presence underscored the depth and diversity of this year’s acting talent.
Late Arrival: Director James Mangold Makes It Just in Time
James Mangold, known for his directorial prowess, had a narrow escape from missing the photo entirely. His late arrival, which was met with a mixture of groans and cheers, symbolized the unpredictable nature of such gatherings. Despite being a seasoned filmmaker, this marked his first Oscar nomination for directing, sharing this distinction with other first-time nominees in the category.
Candid Moments and Comradery
In a display of solidarity and celebration, the team from Black Box Diaries—a documentary feature nominee—shared a moment of unity by joining hands. This gesture was not just about personal achievement but also about collective endeavor and the power of storytelling.
Stars in the Shadows: The Back Row’s Big Names
Even though some stars like Demi Moore, Guy Pearce, and Edward Norton were positioned in the back row, their contributions to cinema were no less significant. Each brings a history of rich performances and this year was no exception, with nominations across major categories.
Musical Interludes and Unseen Faces
This year’s Oscars will miss live performances from Best Original Song nominees, a departure from tradition. However, the inclusion of global artists like Doja Cat and members from Blackpink in the lineup ensures that the ceremony will not lack musical brilliance.
The Oscars class photo event offers a rare glimpse into the relaxed interactions among nominees, contrasting with the high-octane glamour of the awards night. It captures moments of joy, camaraderie, and sometimes, the solitary reflections of those about to embark on one of the most memorable evenings of their careers. As the film industry continues to evolve, these photographs will remain a cherished snapshot of the artistry and emotion that define Hollywood’s pinnacle awards ceremony.