Oscars Avoid Trump References, Address Political Issues

The 97th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O'Brien, aimed to avoid overt political commentary, notably steering clear of references to Donald Trump. While the ceremony celebrated diversity and included a nod to the ongoing Ukraine conflict, remarks were generally subtle, with O'Brien making a quip about the film 'Anora' in relation to Russian power dynamics. Best Supporting Actress winner Zoe Saldaña apologized for any offense caused by her film 'Emilia Perez,' which faced backlash from Mexican audiences. The ceremony also recognized the documentary 'No Other Land,' whose creators criticized U.S. foreign policy while highlighting the struggles in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Overall, while some political themes surfaced, the event was less confrontational compared to previous years. The night ultimately showcased a mix of independent films and significant wins for works highlighting marginalized communities.