Even for die-hard fans, the lead-up to the 91st Academy Awards — airing Sunday at 8 p.m. on ABC — has been…
Even for die-hard fans, the lead-up to the 91st Academy Awards — airing Sunday at 8 p.m. on ABC — has been rife with confusion. Seemingly every week the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced a controversial new decision about the ceremony — from cutting categories to hiring Kevin Hart as host — only to cave a few days later from the pressure of social-media backlash. Amid all that, a bunch of movies were also nominated for awards.
So you’re forgiven for not keeping up. But don’t fret about understanding all the ins and outs: This handy cheat sheet will make you sound like an Oscar expert at your screening party.
Don’t say: “I can’t wait to see what hilarity Kevin Hart has in store!” Nope, after the comedian’s old homophobic jokes resurfaced, he pulled out.
Say: “At least the show will be over before midnight.” The Academy’s decision to go host-less may make the evening drier, but it should also make it shorter.
Don’t say: “Queen + Adam Lambert should have re-created the full Live Aid set.” They are performing, but Rami Malek pretty much did that in “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
Say: “I’m thrilled all the Original Song nominees are getting their due.” The Academy was reportedly considering only asking some of the musicians to grace the stage, but swift outrage has led to announced performances from Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper, Bette Midler, Jennifer Hudson, and Gillian Welch with David Rawlings.
