1. Anora wins big
In what was widely considered to be a wide-open Oscars for many of the categories, Anora was the big winner—taking home five awards. The popular film from last year netted wins for Best Picture, Best Actress, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Editing.
2. Mikey Madison pulls off the upset over Demi Moore
Although everyone was expecting Demi Moore to take home her first Oscar in her first nomination for her vulnerable performance in The Substance, it was Mikey Madison who, in a shocker, took home the Best Actress award for Anora. The powerful performance helps her to become the 9th youngest winner in one of the more defining moments of this year's Oscars.
3. Zoe Saldaña and Kieran Culkin take home their first Oscar in their first nomination
While both were a shoo-in to win their respective categories, it was a special moment to see them each win in what was their first nomination. Additionally, each delivered incredible speeches, with Saldaña reflecting on her Dominican heritage while Culkin reminded his wife about her promise to allow him to have more kids.
4. Morgan Freeman honors the late Gene Hackman
After Gene Hackman tragically passed away last month, it was safe to say that he would appear in the Memorium. What was unexpected, however, was Morgan Freeman coming out to honor his friend, who he starred in the Western film Unforgiven with. The moment was moving and served as a great transition to the moment when the Academy honors everyone who died over the past year.
5. The Los Angeles firefighters are recognized
With the tragic fires that wreaked havoc over the Los Angeles area, it is easy to forget about the firefighters who bravely put their lives on the line to help mitigate the damage as much as possible. Tonight at the Oscars, those brave men and women were recognized for their efforts in front of some of the biggest names in Hollywood. They also cracked jokes about Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan and the disaster film of last year, Joker 2.
6. Adam Sandler's Wardrobe
Some may think it's a sign that he doesn't take the occasion seriously, but Sandler does the same thing at every event. At this year's Oscars, Adam Sandler once again went with casual attire instead of dressing up—the way every other attendee does. Now, that doesn't take anything away from him—Sandler has proven himself and then some. The 50 First Dates actor simply marches to the beat of his own drum, and no one can be mad at him. Plus, who can be angry at a guy rocking a bubblegum blue sweatshirt and basketball shorts?