The nominees of the 97th Academy Awards were celebrated on March 1 during the beloved annual Makeup and Hairstyling Symposium.
Distinguished nominees showcased nominated works in the David Geffen Theater at the renowned Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
Opening remarks kicked off the glorious event with inspirational words from Academy Governors of Makeup Artists and Hairstyling Branch Linda Flowers, Howard Berger, and Gerald Quist.
The sold-out theater held an audience that was captivated to hear the words of wisdom and path to Oscar gold from the nominees who each took the stage to speak about their phenomenal films.
Sebastian Stan made a surprise appearance for the nominated film “A Different Man.” Speaking on how his work with the department on the project made a profound difference in his performance he said, “Everybody that I was asking was always saying there’s just one person for this and his name is Mike Marino…This makeup for this film, for the story and for what it asks for, it was crucial. And I think it wasn’t until we finally tested at the studio the first time, (it was) right where I started to find all the physicality. And kind of how to walk…It was just a lot that came alive for me once we had everything applied. And again, I’ve said the story, but it’s just massive.”
Films highlighted at the event included “A Different Man” along with “Emilia Pérez,””Nosferatu,” “The Substance,” and “Wicked.” Another surprise appearance was made by nominated director Coralie Fargeat.
Each panel was filled with thrilling excitement and deep appreciation for the films.
“I mean the creativity was just endless,” said ‘Wicked’ nominee Frances Hannon. “You never get that opportunity just to do whatever you want. This film was world’s your oyster.”
After the panels, museum guests and symposium attendees had a chance to have intimate conversations with nominees and see their work on display. The room was filled with joyous chatter and congratulatory handshakes with the public and the artists.
Oscar winner Berger took time to reflect on the grand turnout and the continuation of the legendary symposium.
“I think it says a lot about makeup and hair. You know. I think people, you know, in the ever changing and evolving world of digital content and so forth, people still love seeing the practical stuff. They love seeing movies that have makeup and monsters and hair and all that stuff. And they love it so much,” he told Knockturnal. “This event is really a testament to it all. The fact that we have this giant community, and that’s really what it is. It’s a community. It’s not a competition. No, we’re not cutting each other’s throats. We always support each other. It’s a very positive environment. We’re all friends, and we truly are all friends from all over the world, and always excited to see each other. So seeing everybody here, and seeing how many people came to see this event, this spotlight, it just says the world about what we do for a living. It really validates people love movies and seeing makeup and seeing hair styling, all that great stuff that we have here today. Testament to the beauty of the industry. It is absolutely it absolutely is a testament and I’m so proud of it.”
Be sure to tune in today for the 97th Academy Awards.