The Oscars is full of beauty and glamour, but was God welcomed this year?

The Academy Awards (aka the Oscars) are the highlight of the Hollywood calendar, celebrating the very finest of film talent. Established in May 1929, the 95th ceremony was held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on March 2nd. The award season is never without controversy, but this year has been more contentious that most, from racism to sexism and of course religious prejudice.

In the UK, 1M viewers tuned into watch the drama un-fold.

In the UK, 1M viewers tuned into watch the drama un-fold. It was a night of tributes; in the wake of the LA fires, the Academy responded to the devastation by welcoming fire fighters on stage and Morgan Freeman gave a touching eulogy to his friend, actor, Gene Hackman.

Many actresses have come forward in the past, stating their mixed feelings about Hollywood, often acknowledging the exciting artistic opportunities, whilst also criticising the unrealistic beauty stands and the prevalent sexism. Some actresses actively challenge this, becoming advocates for positive change. This years Oscars felt like a celebration of that, with films showcasing female stories, including Best International Feature I’m Still Here and Best Live Action Short I’m Not a Robot.

Elsewhere, Zoe Saldana won Best Supporting Actress for her role as Rita in Emilla Perez. During her acceptance speech, Saldana she honoured the hard work of her immigrant parents, dedicating her win to her Dominican grandmother- who she said filled her with dreams, dignity and hardworking hands.

Saldana hoped her win would light the way for other women, with Hispanic heritage. 

Saldana hoped her win would light the way for other women, with Hispanic heritage. Emilla Perez focuses on a Mexican cartel leader, who aims to disappear and transition into a woman. Despite being tipped for succession, the musical has received backlash and been accused of downplaying the exploits of Mexico’s drug problem. But Producers insist that this film came from a place of love, stating that they stand with the Mexican community and those effected by LGBTQ+ issues.

READ MORE: Will Smith slapped Chris Rock around the face then in the next breath thanked God for his Oscar… and we’re not sure what to make of it

During this year’s Golden Globe ceremony, Hollywood appeared to mock God, sparking Ray Comfort to highlight the celebrity’s hypocrisy. These moments serve as a sobering reminder of life’s fragility and how the spiritual tables can turn so easily in times of suffering. So, was God at this year’s Oscars?

READ MORE: We launched the first faith-focused art awards because creativity reflects a core part of God’s nature

The big winner of the night was Anora, sweeping the board and winning five awards. Director, writer, and editor, Sean Baker set a record for most wins for a single film. Wearing all these hats paid off and led Baker to make history. A feat only achieved by one other person: Walt Disney, who won four Oscars for four separate films in 1953.

Anora follows the life of a young New York sex worker who marries the son of a Russian oligarch, before his parents find out and put her Cinderella story in jeopardy. In total, the film was nominated for six awards, losing only one to Kieran Culkin, for his supporting role in A Real Pain.  It was, however, a night to celebrate for breakout star Mikey Madison who received the Best Leading Actress award for the title role. Reading from a scrunched-up piece of paper, there were biblical parallels, Madison said she would continue to support and be an ally to prostitutes in America - much like Jesus.

Taking to the stage as Best Actor, Adrian Brody thanked God for “this blessed life,” it has been said that Brody’s Jewish heritage has significantly influenced his career choices. He concluded his speech by praying that the world becomes a happier and more inclusive.

READ MORE: ‘This industry requires a lot of faith’

It was also interesting to see that the Best Adapted Screenplay award went to Conclave, a film that centres around scandal within the Catholic church. Kate Lucky, a journalist from Christianity Today called the film “gorgeous and riveting.”

To the disappointment of fans, the magical film Wicked and the hotly anticipated horror the Substance, failed to gain the top awards, instead they walked away with Oscars in design and costume. The second instalment of Dune also performed badly, only winning Best Sound and visual effects.

Los Angeles is home to many religions, but in California 65% identify as practising Christians, let’s pray that Godly influence continues to influence Tinseltown.