The 98th Academy Awards took place live from the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, showcasing a blend of cinematic achievement and strong political commentary. The ceremony, hosted by Conan O'Brien, caused a stir as it opened with discussions surrounding the nominated films, such as Paul Thomas Anderson's politically charged action-comedy 'Una battaglia dopo l’altra' and Ryan Coogler's anti-racist horror drama 'Sinners – I peccatori'. With the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and related issues, the event is seen as a pivotal moment where cinema intersects with political discourse, particularly concerning current U.S. military involvement.

As celebrities walked down the red carpet amid heavy security measures—reflecting the tense international situation—protests against anti-immigration police erupted outside and within the theater. Notable attendees included stars like Jessie Buckley and Demi Moore, highlighted against the backdrop of a politically charged atmosphere. This juxtaposition of glamour and protest served as a reminder of the broader issues confronting society today, particularly the implications of U.S. policies on filmmakers and their narratives.

The awards portion of the night featured significant moments, including Anne Wintour mistakenly referring to Anne Hathaway as 'Emily,' a nod to their work in 'The Devil Wears Prada.' Out of the awards, 'Frankenstein' took home honors for both makeup and costume design, emphasizing a trend in this year's nominations towards films that challenge social norms and provoke discussion. Overall, the ceremony was not just a celebration of film but a canvas for artists to voice their perspectives on pressing global issues.