Entertainment
Oscars 2024: Stars Shine, Surprises Emerge
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Check out all the highlights from Hollywood’s biggest night.
The stars were shining bright on Sunday! This year’s Academy Awards brought out the biggest names in Hollywood for a night of fun and celebration.
Coming together at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, this year’s Oscars was a musical performance-filled gala that also served as a celebration of cinema greatness and delivered some truly unexpected surprises and category upsets.
Hosted once again by Jimmy Kimmel — serving as emcee for the fourth time — the comedian brought his deft and innate comedic talent for a memorable night of recognition and entertainment.
From some long-awaited wins to some truly touching acceptance speeches, here are all the best, biggest and most memorable highlights from Sunday’s 96th Oscars ceremony!
Jimmy Kimmel Shows Union Solidarity in Opening Monologue
In his fourth time as host, Kimmel felt confident and comfortable poking gentle fun at celebs without hurting feelings. However, he also made sure to infuse some genuine meaning into his monologue by celebrating the union teamsters and crew members who worked hard to support SAG and the WGA during their strikes.
Kimmel welcomed a big group of IATSE members onto the stage and and promised, “In your upcoming negotiation, we will stand with you, too. And also, I’m going to make sure the show goes really long tonight, so you get a ton of overtime.
Cord Jefferson Delivers Rousing Call for More Small-Budget Films
After winning the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay for American Fiction, Cord Jefferson used his time on stage to deliver an impassioned plea for Hollywood execs to take more risks when it comes to funding small budget projects from unknown filmmakers.
“I understand that this is a risk-averse industry, I get it, but $200 million movies are also a risk, you know? And it doesn’t always work out, but you take the risk anyway,” Jefferson shared. “Instead of making one $200 million movie, try making 20 $10 million movies. Or 50 $4 million movies… I feel so much joy being here, I felt so much joy making this movie, and I want other people to experience that joy, and they are out there, I promise you.”
Billie Eilish Shows Exactly What She Was Made For
The Oscars are known for their over-the-top performances of the nominees for Best Song. However, Billie Eilish managed to deliver one of the most powerful performances possible with nothing more than her brother Finneas O’Connell on piano and her crooning into a microphone (and a full orchestra just off stage). The singer belted out her Barbie track, “What Was I Made For?” and earned a tearful, breathless, roaring standing ovation from the star-studded audience — including a stunned Ariana Grande, a crying Margot Robbie and a cheering Kate McKinnon.
John Cena Strips Down to Present Best Costume
Every time he appears in anything, it seems John Cena’s comedic timing gets more and more perfected — and that all culminated with his jaw-dropping Oscars presentation for Best Costume, when he took the stage fully nude, covering his privates with nothing but the winner’s envelope.
Originally planned as a joke about the infamous Oscars streaker, Cena explained he no longer wanted to do the bit, because the Oscars were too elegant for such nonsense, but he wound up baring all anyway, and was saved by Kimmel fashioning a toga for him to maintain his dignity.
Emily Blunt and Ryan Gosling Bicker Over ‘Barbenheimer’ Rivalry
Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt’s hilariously caustic banter was a better promo for their upcoming action rom-com The Fall Guy than any trailer could ever be. The pair took the stage for a special spotlight honoring stunt performers, but largely featured Blunt and Gosling playfully arguing about Oppenheimer and Barbie, and came to an end when Blunt accused Gosling of painting on his abs, before he angrily grabbed the mic away and demanded that they put an end to their feud. The pair had an effortless chemistry that made their presentation banter among the best we’ve seen at any awards show this year.
‘Godzilla Minus One’ VFX Creators Celebrate Historic With With Mini-Godzillas
When Godzilla Minus One took home the Oscar, it made history as the first foreign language film and first Japanese production to ever win the honor. It’s also the first Godzilla franchise film to ever win any Oscar of any kind. Additionally, director Takashi Yamazaki, who also served as the film’s VFX director, became the first director to win an Oscar for Best Visual Effects since 1969, when Stanley Kubrick snagged it for 2001: A Space Odyssey.
To commemorate the monumental win, the film’s VFX team took the stage to accept the award and brought along some mini Godzillas as well, to share the spotlight with the iconic monster for one of the most adorable and sweet moments of the night.
Ryan Gosling Delivers a High-Kenergy Musical Performance
Appearing on stage accompanied by more than a dozen backup singers and dancers, Ryan Gosling — joined by Slash and several of the other Kens from Barbie including Ncuti Gatwa, Kingsley Ben-Adir, Scott Evans and Simu Liu — tapped into his inner Ken doll while wearing a pink sparkly suit and sunglasses to unleash the Kenergy on the audience members, starting out in the crowd before coming up to the front of the room.
The La La Land actor — who started his career in Hollywood as a member of the Mickey Mouse Club — gave a stunning (and comedic) rendition of the song, which peaked on the charts following the film’s release. By giving it his all and then going into the audience to sing along with stars, Gosling provided one of the most memorable moments in Oscar history.
Entertainment
Netflix Subscribers Surge To 270 Million
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Netflix has exceeded all expectations in the first quarter of 2024, reaching approximately 269.60 million subscribers by March 31. This achievement comes as a surprise even to the streaming giant itself, which was projected to add only 3.93 million subscribers in the same period. The platform’s early 2024 lineup, featuring new breakout hits like Avatar: The Last Airbender, 3 Body Problem, The Gentlemen, Fool Me Once, Griselda, and Damsel, has played a significant role in attracting a larger audience.
One of the key strategies that helped Netflix achieve this milestone was cracking down on accounts sharing passwords. By tightening security measures, the platform has not only retained existing subscribers but also managed to attract new ones. Netflix’s consistent flow of original movies and TV series, along with content from other studios, has kept viewers engaged and loyal to the platform.
Despite its impressive subscriber numbers, Netflix recently announced its decision to stop reporting quarterly subscription totals starting in 2025. This unexpected move has raised eyebrows within the industry, as the platform’s subscriber numbers have traditionally influenced its stock prices. The decision to withhold these numbers suggests that Netflix may anticipate a future decrease in subscribers and wants to prevent a corresponding drop in its stock price.
Furthermore, Netflix is gearing up for a shift in its content strategy. The platform aims to produce original movies that are “better, cheaper, and less frequent” than in the past. This new approach also involves moving away from making massive upfront payments to established stars and creators. The impact of these changes on Netflix’s future as a movie and TV studio remains to be seen, but the company seems focused on finding a balance between quality content and cost efficiency.
With its subscriber base continuing to grow at an impressive rate, Netflix maintains its position as the undisputed king of the streaming realm. The platform’s ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences and deliver compelling content has solidified its dominance in the industry. As the competition in the streaming market intensifies, Netflix’s strategic decisions and innovative content offerings will be crucial in sustaining its success and staying ahead of the curve.
Community
How the Beatles Won Australia Over Minus the Razzmatazz
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Here’s a look back at how the Beatles captured the hearts of Australian fans during their 1964 tour, without the extravagant stage effects that are common in today’s concerts.
Teenager Sandi Keane vividly remembers the excitement of seeing the Fab Four at Melbourne’s Southern Cross Hotel. The Beatles, in the midst of Beatlemania, were greeted by hundreds of thousands of screaming fans lining the streets from Essendon Airport to the city center.
Despite the overwhelming crowds, the Beatles were thrilled by the reception. They engaged with the fans, with drummer Ringo Starr even joking about his daring entrance into the hotel.
At the Festival Hall concerts a few days later, super fans like Ms. Keane were immersed in the Beatles’ music and energy. The band, representing a new generation of change, played a key role in the cultural shift of the 60s.
While their performance may seem simple by today’s standards, with just their voices and instruments, the impact of the Beatles’ music was undeniable. Songs like “She Loves You” resonated with fans like Ms. Keane, creating a joyous and unforgettable experience.
Now, 60 years later, the Beatles’ Australasian tour is celebrated as a defining moment of Beatlemania. A new book, “When We Was Fab: Inside the Beatles Australasian Tour 1964,” compiled by Greg Armstrong and Andy Neill, captures the essence of that historic moment.
Reflecting on the Beatles’ personalities, Ms. Keane describes Paul McCartney as having a “honey on toast-type voice,” John Lennon’s raspy tones, Ringo Starr’s shyness, and George Harrison’s reserved nature. Despite their fame, the Beatles remained true to themselves.
The Beatles’ ability to captivate audiences with just their music and presence, without the need for elaborate stage effects, is what makes them timeless. Their performance, filled with raw talent and genuine connection, continues to resonate with fans today.
As the Beatles left a lasting impact on Australia during their 1964 tour, their legacy lives on through their music and the memories of fans like Sandi Keane, who experienced the magic of Beatlemania firsthand.
The Beatles’ influence on music and pop culture is undeniable, with their simple yet powerful performances showcasing the true essence of their talent. Despite the passage of time, the Beatles’ music continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world, proving that sometimes, all you need are four boys in suits and ties to win over a nation.
Entertainment
How Many Game of Thrones Seasons?
![How Many Game of Thrones Seasons](https://digitaldailynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/How-Many-Game-of-Thrones-Seasons.jpg)
With its epic storylines, intricate characters, and captivating drama, Game of Thrones became a cultural phenomenon that captured the hearts of millions of viewers worldwide. Lasting for a total of eight seasons, this iconic fantasy series created by George R.R. Martin mesmerized audiences with its intricate plots, stunning visuals, and unexpected twists. Dive into the kingdoms of Westeros and Essos as we explore the journey of Game of Thrones through its many seasons.
Overview of the Series
Adaptation and Original Content
For fans of the popular series “Game of Thrones“, the show is known for its impressive adaptation of George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” novels. While staying true to the essence of the books, the show also introduced original content to enhance the viewing experience.
Summary of Themes and Genre
With its intricate plots, complex characters, and constant power struggles, “Game of Thrones” explores deep into themes of politics, power, morality, and betrayal. The show seamlessly blends elements of fantasy, drama, and action to create a captivating viewing experience.
The genre of “Game of Thrones” can be categorized as epic fantasy, with a unique blend of medieval elements, magic, and political intrigue. The series has gained a massive following for its ability to transport viewers to the fictional world of Westeros and Essos, where characters navigate through a web of alliances and conflicts.
Examination of the Seasons
Breakdown by Season
Examination of the seasons of Game of Thrones reveals a meticulously crafted narrative that unfolds over eight compelling seasons. Each season plays a significant role in advancing the intricate storylines, showcasing the world of Westeros and the battle for the Iron Throne.
Key Plotlines and Character Developments
One of the defining elements of Game of Thrones is its complex web of key plotlines and character developments that captivate audiences around the globe. From the power struggles in King’s Landing to the epic battles beyond the Wall, each season expertly weaves together the destinies of the characters, raising the stakes and immersing viewers in a world of political intrigue and dynamic relationships.
With characters like Daenerys Targaryen’s journey from exile to queen, Jon Snow’s discovery of his true identity, and the intricate schemes of players like Cersei Lannister and Petyr Baelish, Game of Thrones keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its unpredictable twists and turns.
Cultural Impact and Reception
Critical Acclaim and Awards
After the launch of Game of Thrones in 2011, it quickly became a cultural phenomenon, praised by critics and audiences alike for its complex characters, intricate storytelling, and stunning visual effects. The series received numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Emmy Awards for Outstanding Drama Series and individual performances.
Influence on Popular Culture
Any fan of Game of Thrones can attest to its significant impact on popular culture. The show sparked worldwide discussion and speculation, with fans dissecting every episode for clues and theories. The series also influenced other forms of media, inspiring a surge in fantasy television shows and novels that aimed to capture the same level of intrigue and depth.
To delve deeper into the influence of Game of Thrones on popular culture, it’s important to note that the show not only redefined the fantasy genre but also set new standards for television production and storytelling. Its success paved the way for other epic series to take risks and explore darker, more intricate narratives, making it a landmark moment in television history.
Cultural
The Impact of Game of Thrones extended beyond just entertainment. The series sparked conversations about power dynamics, moral ambiguity, and the consequences of war and politics. It also propelled its cast and crew to international stardom, turning actors into household names and showcasing the talent of behind-the-scenes professionals in the industry.
Additional Media and Spin-offs
Prequels and Companion Series
To expand the rich world of Westeros, HBO has announced several prequels and companion series to keep fans engaged in the Game of Thrones universe. These upcoming shows will examine into the history and lore of George R.R. Martin’s intricate world, providing audiences with new perspectives and insights into the events that shaped the realm we know from the original series.
Other Game of Thrones Related Works
Series such as “House of the Dragon” have been greenlit and are highly anticipated by viewers eager for more tales from the Seven Kingdoms. Additionally, the network has hinted at potential spin-offs and adaptations of other works by George R.R. Martin, ensuring that there will be no shortage of content for fans craving more intrigue and drama.
Works set in the Game of Thrones universe have become a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences worldwide with their complex characters, political intrigues, and epic battles. Whether through TV spin-offs, books, or other forms of media, the legacy of Game of Thrones continues to thrive, ensuring its status as one of the most beloved fantasy franchises of all time.
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Summing up
Hence, with a total of eight seasons, Game of Thrones captivated audiences around the world with its intricate plots, complex characters, and epic battles. While the series came to an end in 2019, its impact on popular culture and the entertainment industry continues to be felt. Fans will forever debate the direction of the final seasons and the fates of their beloved characters, but there is no denying the lasting legacy of this groundbreaking show.
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