How to Watch Oscars: A Complete Guide for Movie Lovers

The Oscars, also known as the Academy Awards, are the most prestigious and widely recognized movie awards in the world. Every year, Hollywood’s biggest stars gather to celebrate the best movies of the year and honor the talented artists who bring them to life. But for many movie lovers, watching the Oscars can be a bit overwhelming. With so much coverage and so many different ways to watch, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this complete guide to help you get the most out of the Oscars. Whether you’re a die-hard film buff or just looking for a fun way to spend an evening with friends, we’ve got everything you need to know to make the most of this iconic event.

Introduction

The Oscars, also known as the Academy Awards, are the most prestigious movie awards in the world. Every year, Hollywood’s biggest stars gather to celebrate the best movies of the year and honor the talented individuals who brought them to life.

First established in 1929, the Oscars have become an iconic event that is watched by millions of people worldwide. From the red carpet fashion to the emotional speeches, the Oscars are a spectacle that captures the imagination of movie lovers everywhere.

But the Oscars are much more than just an awards show. They represent the pinnacle of achievement in the movie industry and recognize the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in creating a great film. Winning an Oscar can change the trajectory of an actor or director’s career, and even earn them a place in cinema history.

Over the years, the Oscars have become a reflection of the cultural and political climate of our times. The winners and nominees often reflect the issues and concerns that society faces, from racism and sexism to environmentalism and poverty.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at what makes the Oscars so special and why you should tune in every year. Whether you’re a die-hard movie buff or just curious about the hype, this guide has everything you need to know about the Academy Awards.

Why You Should Watch the Oscars

The Best Movies of the Year

The Oscars is the most prestigious award show of the year, and it’s the perfect opportunity to catch up on the best movies of the year. The nominees and winners for Best Picture are always a good place to start, as they represent the cream of the crop in terms of storytelling, acting, and cinematography.

In recent years, blockbusters have also featured heavily among the nominees, which means there’s something for everyone, whether you’re into indie films or big-budget action flicks. The Best Picture nominees for this year include critically acclaimed movies like “Nomadland,” “Minari,” and “Promising Young Woman.”

“Nomadland” is a beautifully shot movie about a woman who lives out of her van and travels around the country looking for work. It stars Frances McDormand, who gives an incredible performance that has earned her another Oscar nomination for Best Actress.

“Minari,” on the other hand, tells the story of a Korean-American family who moves to Arkansas in search of the American Dream. It’s a heartwarming film that explores themes of family, identity, and chasing your dreams.

Finally, “Promising Young Woman” is a dark and thrilling revenge movie that stars Carey Mulligan as a woman seeking justice for a past trauma. It’s a thought-provoking film that tackles issues of consent, gender inequality, and power dynamics.

These movies are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the best movies of the year. Whether you’re watching the Oscars to see who wins or to discover new movies to add to your watchlist, there’s no denying that this year’s nominees are worth checking out.

Celebrity Fashion

When it comes to the Oscars, some people tune in as much for the fashion as they do for the awards themselves. The red carpet is a veritable runway for Hollywood’s biggest stars, who come dressed to impress in designer gowns and tuxedos.

Designer gowns are often the highlight of the evening for many viewers, and with good reason. These dresses are works of art that can take months to create, and are often custom-made for the celebrity wearing them. From classic silhouettes to bold, avant-garde designs, there’s no shortage of stunning gowns on display at the Oscars. Some of the most memorable gowns in recent years have included Lupita Nyong’o’s blue Prada gown in 2014, Jennifer Lawrence’s red Dior dress in 2013, and Charlize Theron’s white Dior gown in 2020.

While the women certainly get a lot of attention on the red carpet, men have also been stepping up their game in recent years. Tuxedos are a classic choice for male celebrities, but that doesn’t mean they have to be boring. Many actors have been experimenting with different colors and patterns, making for some truly eye-catching looks. For example, Timothée Chalamet made headlines in 2019 when he wore an all-white outfit by Louis Vuitton, complete with a sparkly harness.

Of course, not every celebrity gets it right on the red carpet. There have been plenty of fashion misses over the years, from Björk’s infamous swan dress in 2001 to Gwyneth Paltrow’s sheer Antonio Berardi gown in 2002. But even these missteps can make for entertaining water-cooler talk the next day.

Overall, the fashion on display at the Oscars is just as much a part of the show as the awards themselves. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or simply enjoy seeing what your favorite celebrities are wearing, there’s always something to look forward to on the red carpet.

Memorable Speeches and Moments

Whether you’re a movie buff or just a casual viewer, the Oscars always have memorable moments that keep us talking for weeks after the event. Among these, speeches from award winners often stand out for their emotional impact, humor, and political messages.

Some of the most unforgettable speeches in Oscar history have brought tears to our eyes, like Halle Berry’s tearful acceptance speech for Best Actress in 2002, when she became the first black woman to win the award. Similarly, Sally Field’s “You like me!” moment in 1985 is still remembered for its heartfelt sincerity. These emotional speeches remind us of the human side of Hollywood stars, who are often seen as untouchable.

In addition to emotional speeches, surprise wins also make for exciting Oscar moments. Who can forget when Marisa Tomei won Best Supporting Actress for My Cousin Vinny in 1993, much to the shock of many viewers? Or when Crash beat Brokeback Mountain for Best Picture in 2006, despite being considered the underdog? These unexpected victories remind us that the Oscars are not always predictable and can be full of surprises.

Finally, historic moments can also make the Oscars unforgettable. From Kathryn Bigelow becoming the first woman to win Best Director for The Hurt Locker in 2010 to Parasite making history as the first non-English language film to win Best Picture in 2020, these moments break barriers and challenge long-held assumptions about what type of films and artists can succeed in Hollywood.

In conclusion, speeches, surprise wins, and historic moments all contribute to the magic of the Oscars and keep us tuning in year after year. Whether we’re crying with joy, gasping in shock, or cheering for progress, these memorable moments are a testament to the power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit.

When and Where to Watch the Oscars

Broadcast Schedule

The Oscars is not just about the main event itself, but also the different parts of the broadcast that lead up to and follow it. If you’re planning to watch the ceremony, knowing the broadcast schedule can help you plan your day accordingly.

Pre-Show

The Oscars’ pre-show is a staple of Hollywood’s biggest night, and for good reason. It features interviews with nominees, red carpet fashion commentary, and even performances from artists. The pre-show starts at 6:30 pm ET/3:30 pm PT and lasts for an hour and a half.

Main Event

The Oscars’ main event is undoubtedly the most anticipated part of the broadcast. This is where the awards are presented, and celebrities take the stage to accept their trophies. The main event usually starts around 8 pm ET/5 pm PT and lasts for about three hours.

After-Party

Once the ceremony ends, the celebration doesn’t stop there. Several after-parties take place across Los Angeles, which are often attended by the winners, nominees, and other celebrities. These events are invite-only and provide a chance for stars to relax and unwind after the big night.

It’s worth noting that the broadcast schedule may vary depending on your time zone and location. As such, it’s essential to check your local listings to ensure you don’t miss any of the action. Keep in mind that various channels may offer different coverage, so explore different options to find one that suits your preferences.

TV Channels

If you’re planning on watching the Oscars, you’ll want to know what channels will be broadcasting the event. The main channel to watch is ABC, which has been airing the awards ceremony since 1976. ABC’s coverage includes red carpet arrivals, pre-show interviews, and the main event itself.

In addition to ABC, E! also provides red carpet coverage before the ceremony. E! broadcasts live from the red carpet, interviewing celebrities and showing off their glamorous outfits. Their coverage includes fashion commentary and expert analysis of the night’s hottest looks.

For those who want to catch every moment of the Oscars, including behind-the-scenes footage and clips that may not appear on the main broadcast, Red Carpet Coverage is also available. This channel provides exclusive access to the stars as they arrive, with interviews and highlights from the biggest moments of the night.

Keep in mind that availability of these channels may vary depending on your location and cable or streaming provider. Check with your local listings or streaming service for more information.

No matter which channel you choose to watch, make sure to tune in early to catch all the excitement and glamour of Hollywood’s biggest night.

Streaming Services

If you don’t have cable or a TV, streaming services are the perfect way to watch the Oscars live. Here are some of the best options:

ABC App

The ABC app is a great way to watch the Oscars if you have a cable subscription that includes ABC. You can watch the Oscars live on the app, and you’ll also get access to exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Hulu Live

Hulu Live is a popular streaming service that offers live TV channels, including ABC. With Hulu Live, you can watch the Oscars as they happen, and you’ll also have access to all of the pre-show and post-show coverage.

YouTube TV

YouTube TV is another streaming service that offers live TV channels, including ABC. With YouTube TV, you can watch the Oscars live and in real-time, just like if you were watching on TV. You’ll also have access to all of the Red Carpet coverage and exclusive interviews with the stars.

One thing to keep in mind when using any of these streaming services is that you’ll need a strong internet connection to avoid buffering or interruption during the ceremony. It’s also a good idea to test out the streaming service before the big night to ensure that everything is working properly.

Overall, if you’re looking for a convenient and easy way to watch the Oscars without cable, these streaming services are your best bet.

How to Host an Oscars Viewing Party

Food and Drinks

When it comes to watching the Oscars, having delicious food and drinks is an important part of the experience. Here are some ideas for snacks and beverages that will make your viewing party even more enjoyable.

Popcorn

No movie night is complete without popcorn, and the Oscars are no exception. However, instead of plain old buttered popcorn, why not try some gourmet options? You can try adding flavors such as garlic parmesan or truffle oil for a unique twist on this classic snack. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own caramel corn or popcorn balls.

Champagne

The Oscars are a time to celebrate, so why not pop open a bottle of champagne? This sparkling wine pairs well with a variety of snacks, from salty popcorn to sweet desserts. Plus, it adds a touch of glamour to your viewing party. If you don’t want to splurge on a bottle of champagne, you can also opt for a sparkling wine or prosecco.

Cocktails

If champagne isn’t your thing, cocktails are another great option for your Oscars viewing party. You can create cocktails inspired by your favorite movies or actors, like a Black Panther-inspired Wakandan Sunset or a Lady Bird-inspired Sacramento Sour. Alternatively, you can stick to classic cocktail recipes, like a margarita or a Manhattan.

Overall, having delicious food and drinks is a key component of any Oscars viewing party. Whether you opt for gourmet popcorn, bubbly champagne, or creative cocktails, these snacks and beverages will elevate your viewing experience and make it a night to remember.

Decorations

Decorations are an essential part of any Oscars viewing party, and they can set the mood for a fun and exciting night. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a big bash, there are many ways to create a festive atmosphere in your home.

One popular decoration theme for an Oscars party is movie-themed decor. This can include anything from posters of classic films to cardboard cutouts of famous actors and actresses. You can even create a mini Hollywood Boulevard by lining your hallway with stars bearing the names of your favorite movies.

Another great way to add some glitz and glamour to your party is by incorporating elements of the red carpet. Roll out a red carpet (or red felt fabric) at your entrance, and have guests walk down it as if they were arriving at the awards show themselves. You can also use black and white balloons to create a paparazzi backdrop, complete with flashing camera lights.

Of course, no Oscars party would be complete without references to the iconic golden statuettes. Create your own DIY versions by painting plastic trophies gold, or use gold spray paint to transform everyday objects like mason jars and vases into little Oscar replicas. Scatter them around your party space to add some sparkle and shine.

In summary, decorations play an important role in creating a festive and enjoyable atmosphere for any Oscars viewing party. From movie-themed decor to red carpet elements and golden statuettes, there are many ways to bring the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to your home.

Games and Activities

One of the best ways to get your friends and family excited about the Oscars is to plan some fun games and activities. Whether you’re a movie buff or just enjoy a good party, these activities are sure to entertain everyone.

Oscar Ballots

Creating Oscar ballots is a classic activity that’s perfect for any viewing party. Simply print out a list of all the nominees and have your guests fill in their picks for each category. You can make it more interesting by offering prizes for the guest who gets the most categories correct.

Trivia

Test your guest’s knowledge of Hollywood with an Oscars trivia contest. Create a list of questions that cover everything from past winners to famous speeches. You can even create teams to make it more competitive and engaging.

Costume Contest

Encourage your guests to dress up as their favorite movie character or celebrity for a chance to win a prize. This is a great way to add some extra excitement to your party and provide a fun photo opportunity. Make sure to take lots of pictures and share them on social media!

In conclusion, adding games and activities to your Oscars viewing party is a great way to make it more enjoyable and memorable. From Oscar ballots to costume contests, there are plenty of options to choose from. Get creative and have fun!

Conclusion

After a long night of glitz, glamour, and drama, the Oscars have once again come to a close. As movie lovers, we tune in every year to see our favorite films and actors take home the prestigious Academy Awards. The Oscars have become an integral part of Hollywood culture, with each ceremony showcasing the best of the best in the film industry.

But the Oscars aren’t just a night of awards and speeches, they’re also a celebration of the art of filmmaking. They remind us of the power of storytelling and the impact that movies can have on our lives. The Academy Awards showcase the hard work and dedication that goes into making a great film, from the writers and directors to the cast and crew.

For movie lovers, the Oscars are a chance to discover new films and gain a deeper appreciation for the ones we already love. They provide us with a glimpse into the world of Hollywood and the people who make it all happen. From the red carpet fashion to the emotional acceptance speeches, the Oscars never fail to captivate and inspire us.

In conclusion, the Oscars are a testament to the magic of cinema and the talent of the people who bring it to life. They remind us of the beauty and power of storytelling and the impact that movies can have on our lives. As movie lovers, we look forward to the Academy Awards every year, eager to celebrate the best of the best in Hollywood.
The Oscars are more than just an awards show – they are a celebration of the best movies of the year, an opportunity to see your favorite stars strut their stuff on the red carpet, and a chance to come together with friends and family to share in the excitement. Whether you’re a die-hard movie buff or just looking for a fun night in, our guide has everything you need to know to make the most of this iconic event. From where to watch to how to host your own viewing party, we hope this guide has inspired you to tune in and enjoy all the glamour and drama that the Oscars have to offer. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and let the magic of Hollywood transport you to another world.