Oscars 2021: The Complete List Of Winners

Hey everyone! Let's dive into the exciting world of the 2021 Oscars! It was a night full of surprises, heartfelt speeches, and, of course, incredible talent being recognized. So, who took home the coveted golden statues? Buckle up, because we're about to run through the complete list of winners from that memorable night.

Best Picture

Nomadland clinched the Best Picture award, and it was a well-deserved victory. This movie, directed by Chloé Zhao, offers a poignant and deeply moving portrayal of modern-day nomads traveling through the American West. Its understated beauty and powerful storytelling resonated with audiences and critics alike, making it a clear frontrunner throughout the awards season. Nomadland's success wasn't just about the film itself; it highlighted the importance of empathy, human connection, and the search for meaning in unconventional lifestyles. The film's win underscored a shift in the Academy's preferences, embracing stories that are intimate, character-driven, and reflective of the diverse experiences within our society. Zhao's direction was masterful, capturing the vast landscapes and the quiet moments of resilience with equal grace. The performances, particularly by Frances McDormand, were raw and authentic, drawing viewers into the world of the nomads and leaving a lasting impact. This win marked a significant moment for independent cinema and for stories that dare to explore the fringes of society with compassion and understanding. The cultural impact of Nomadland extends beyond the awards, sparking conversations about economic hardship, community, and the human spirit's ability to adapt and find beauty in the face of adversity. It's a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting reflection on what it truly means to live a meaningful life. The film also made history with Chloé Zhao becoming the first woman of color to win Best Director, adding another layer of significance to its Best Picture victory. The Academy's choice reflected a growing commitment to diversity and inclusion, signaling a new era for representation in Hollywood.

Best Director

Speaking of Chloé Zhao, she also took home the award for Best Director for Nomadland! This was a historic moment, as she became only the second woman ever to win the award, following Kathryn Bigelow's win in 2010 for The Hurt Locker. Zhao's win wasn't just a victory for her personally, but a monumental step forward for women in the film industry. Her unique vision, her ability to blend fiction and reality, and her sensitive approach to storytelling set her apart. Zhao's direction in Nomadland was nothing short of breathtaking. She managed to capture the vastness and beauty of the American landscape while simultaneously delving into the intimate lives of her characters. Her use of natural light, her collaboration with non-professional actors, and her commitment to authenticity created a film that felt both epic and deeply personal. Her win inspired countless aspiring female filmmakers and demonstrated that diverse voices and perspectives are not only valuable but essential to the art of cinema. Zhao's journey to the Oscars was a testament to her talent, her hard work, and her unwavering belief in her vision. She faced numerous challenges along the way, but her determination and passion ultimately prevailed. Her success serves as a reminder that anything is possible with dedication and perseverance. The impact of Zhao's win extends far beyond the film industry, inspiring women in all fields to pursue their dreams and break down barriers. Her story is a powerful example of what can be achieved when talent meets opportunity and when the world is ready to embrace diverse voices. Zhao's win also sparked conversations about the importance of mentorship and support for emerging female filmmakers. Creating a more inclusive and equitable industry requires not only recognizing talent but also providing the resources and opportunities needed for women to thrive. Her win has undoubtedly paved the way for future generations of female directors, ensuring that their voices will be heard and their stories will be told.

Best Actor

The late Anthony Hopkins won Best Actor for his powerful performance in The Father. Many were surprised by this win, as many expected Chadwick Boseman to win posthumously for his role in Ma Rainey's Black Bottom. Hopkins' portrayal of a man grappling with dementia was both heartbreaking and masterful. His ability to convey the confusion, fear, and frustration of the character was truly remarkable. This was Hopkins' second Oscar win, his first being for The Silence of the Lambs nearly three decades prior. His win was a testament to his enduring talent and his ability to deliver compelling performances throughout his illustrious career. The Father was a particularly challenging role, requiring Hopkins to navigate the complexities of a character whose reality was constantly shifting. He did so with incredible nuance and sensitivity, capturing the essence of a man losing his grip on the world around him. His performance was praised for its authenticity and its ability to evoke empathy in the audience. The film itself offered a unique perspective on dementia, placing the viewer directly into the mind of the protagonist and allowing them to experience his disorientation and confusion. Hopkins' performance was integral to the film's success, bringing a level of depth and emotional resonance that made it a truly unforgettable cinematic experience. His win served as a reminder of the power of acting and the ability of performers to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level. Hopkins' dedication to his craft and his willingness to take on challenging roles have made him one of the most respected and admired actors of our time. His win for The Father was a fitting recognition of his extraordinary talent and his contribution to the art of cinema. It was a moment of celebration for both Hopkins and the film, solidifying their place in cinematic history. His acceptance of the award, though virtual, was filled with humility and gratitude, further cementing his reputation as a true gentleman of the screen.

Best Actress

Frances McDormand took home the Best Actress award for her role in Nomadland, marking her third win in this category. She previously won for Fargo and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. McDormand's performance in Nomadland was understated yet incredibly powerful. She embodied the spirit of resilience and independence, portraying a woman who chooses to live a nomadic life after losing everything in the Great Recession. Her ability to convey a range of emotions with subtle gestures and expressions made her performance truly captivating. McDormand's dedication to authenticity was evident in her willingness to immerse herself in the nomadic lifestyle, living and working alongside real-life nomads. This commitment to her craft allowed her to bring a level of depth and realism to her performance that resonated with audiences and critics alike. Her win was a testament to her talent, her hard work, and her willingness to take on challenging and unconventional roles. McDormand's career has been marked by a series of memorable performances, each showcasing her versatility and her ability to transform herself into a wide range of characters. She has consistently challenged the conventions of Hollywood, advocating for greater representation and diversity in the film industry. Her win for Nomadland was not only a personal triumph but also a victory for independent cinema and for stories that celebrate the human spirit's ability to persevere in the face of adversity. McDormand's acceptance speech was characteristically brief and impactful, encouraging viewers to seek out and support the work of lesser-known filmmakers and to embrace the power of storytelling to connect us all. Her win has inspired countless aspiring actors and actresses to pursue their dreams and to stay true to their own unique vision. She remains a role model for those who seek to make a positive impact on the world through their art.

Best Supporting Actor

Daniel Kaluuya won Best Supporting Actor for his electrifying performance in Judas and the Black Messiah. His portrayal of Fred Hampton, the chairman of the Illinois Black Panther Party, was both charismatic and deeply moving. Kaluuya's ability to capture Hampton's passion, his intelligence, and his unwavering commitment to social justice was truly remarkable. This was Kaluuya's first Oscar win, and it was a well-deserved recognition of his talent and his dedication to his craft. His performance in Judas and the Black Messiah was a tour de force, showcasing his range as an actor and his ability to embody complex and controversial characters. Kaluuya's win was particularly significant given the film's focus on the Black Panther Party and its struggle against systemic racism and oppression. His portrayal of Fred Hampton brought renewed attention to Hampton's legacy and his contribution to the fight for civil rights. Kaluuya's acceptance speech was both powerful and inspiring, urging viewers to embrace their own potential and to fight for what they believe in. He dedicated his award to Fred Hampton and to all those who have been marginalized and oppressed. His win was a moment of celebration for the Black community and for all those who believe in the power of art to effect social change. Kaluuya's performance in Judas and the Black Messiah will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most iconic and impactful performances of his generation. He has established himself as one of the leading actors of his time, and his win at the Oscars is a testament to his talent and his commitment to telling stories that matter.

Best Supporting Actress

Yuh-Jung Youn won Best Supporting Actress for her charming and heartfelt performance in Minari. Her portrayal of Soonja, the unconventional grandmother who comes to live with her Korean-American family in rural Arkansas, was both funny and deeply touching. Youn's ability to convey a range of emotions with subtle gestures and expressions made her performance truly memorable. This was Youn's first Oscar win, and it was a historic moment for Korean cinema. She became the first Korean actress to win an Academy Award, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of Korean actors and actresses. Youn's win was a testament to her talent, her hard work, and her dedication to her craft. She has been a leading actress in Korea for over five decades, and her win at the Oscars was a recognition of her lifetime achievement. Youn's acceptance speech was both humorous and heartfelt, endearing her to audiences around the world. She thanked her fellow nominees and paid tribute to her director, Lee Isaac Chung. Her win was a moment of celebration for the Korean community and for all those who believe in the power of diversity and inclusion in Hollywood. Youn's performance in Minari will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most iconic and impactful performances of her career. She has established herself as a global icon, and her win at the Oscars is a testament to her talent and her contribution to the art of cinema.

Other Notable Wins

• Best Original Screenplay: Promising Young Woman (Emerald Fennell)
• Best Adapted Screenplay: The Father (Christopher Hampton and Florian Zeller)
• Best Animated Feature Film: Soul
• Best International Feature Film: Another Round (Denmark)
• Best Documentary Feature: My Octopus Teacher

So there you have it, guys! The winners of the 2021 Oscars! It was a night filled with memorable moments and deserving winners. What were your favorite wins? Let me know in the comments below!