The iconic annual class photo gathering for Oscar nominees took place in Los Angeles, showcasing the enthusiasm and camaraderie among attendees ahead of the Academy Awards, scheduled for March 2. This year's event came after the much-anticipated nominees luncheon was canceled due to LA wildfires. A mix of A-listers, first-time nominees, and established stars filled the scene, highlighting the memorable moments from the evening.
1. **Front Row Connection**
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo stole the spotlight, sitting front and center. The duo, known for their emotional chemistry during the promotional tour for the upcoming film adaptation of "Wicked," invited cheers with their joyful energy. They even led the crowd in an enthusiastic shout of "Oscar nominee!" before the photo was snapped.
2. **Fashion Focus**
Among the attendees was producer Maya Gnyp, whose colorful sweater caught the attention of fashion enthusiasts. Gnyp, nominated for her documentary "I Am Ready, Warden," stood out in the elegant class photo—her unique style prompting inquiries about her cozy jumper's origins.
3. **Front Row A-Listers**
Alongside Ariana and Cynthia were notable nominees such as Zoe Saldaña, Mikey Madison, and Monica Barbaro. Saldaña is a frontrunner for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Emilia Pérez," while Madison and Barbaro face a competitive race for leading actress, adding to the anticipation.
4. **James Mangold's Aisle Arrival**
Renowned director James Mangold made a last-minute appearance, prompting lighthearted cheers from peers as he took an aisle seat. As a first-time nominee for Best Director for "A Complete Unknown," his late arrival added a touch of humor to the evening.
5. **Celebrating Collaborators**
The team behind "Black Box Diaries" brought spirit to the event, linking arms in a cheerful pose. This film, nominated for the documentary feature category, explores a critical sexual assault investigation in Japan.
6. **Back Row Stars**
In a surprising juxtaposition, major nominees including Demi Moore and Edward Norton found themselves in the back row. Moore, nominated for her role in "The Substance," was flanked by supporting actor contenders. The distance from the camera made their images slightly blurred, but the star power remained undeniable.
7. **Missing Elton**
Front-row attendees songwriter Bernie Taupin and singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile were joined by their beloved collaborator, the legendary Elton John. Although not present, Elton's influence loomed large given their nomination for "Never Too Late," the title track for his documentary.
8. **Timothée Chalamet's Position**
Fresh off a SAG Awards win, Timothée Chalamet's demeanor felt more subdued as he took an aisle seat, seemingly reflecting on his aspirations in Hollywood amidst competing frontrunners.
9. **Leading Actors’ Moment**
The back row featured key nominees like Adrien Brody and Colman Domingo, who are vying for Best Actor. Each star’s performance adds excitement to the outcome expectations leading up to the awards.
10. **British Representation**
British nominees such as Felicity Jones and Ralph Fiennes brought UK flair to the event. Fiennes, while potentially not a Best Actor winner this year, holds a historical opportunity if "Conclave" prevails for Best Picture.
11. **Notable Absentees**
A few nominees were notably absent from the class photo, including contenders like Kieran Culkin and Karla Sofía Gascón, who has faced recent controversies yet is expected to grace the Oscars ceremony.
12. **Clarence Maclin's Moment**
Sing star Clarence Maclin, who has a notable backstory as a former inmate, made his presence felt in the photo—possibly sneezing or checking his watch, capturing the essence of a candid moment while also acknowledging his story credit for the film.
As the Academy Awards approach, this year's class photo highlighted not just nominees but also camaraderie, competition, and the electric atmosphere leading into Hollywood’s biggest night.
