The 2026 Oscars Review: Tasteful and Overly Safe

The Oscars, in the best of times, are an exhilarating celebration of the art of cinema. They are meant to be exciting, suspenseful, and meaningful, leaving viewers with the belief that movies truly matter. This year’s Oscars managed to strike a balance between being engaging and avoiding the pitfalls of past telecasts that have been criticized for being dull and uninspired.

The show opened with Conan O’Brien delivering a sharp and entertaining monologue that set the tone for the evening. His jokes were witty and light-hearted, poking fun at industry figures and trends without crossing into offensive territory. O’Brien’s presence as a host added a sense of familiarity and comfort to the proceedings, making the audience feel at ease.

One of the highlights of the night was the best actor category, which kept viewers on the edge of their seats until the winner, Michael B. Jordan, was announced. His win for his performance in “One Battle After Another” was a well-deserved recognition of his talent and contribution to the film. Jordan’s heartfelt speech reflected the impact that the movie had on him personally and the audience as a whole.

Throughout the evening, there were subtle hints that “One Battle After Another” would be the night’s big winner. The film’s success in key categories like best casting and best director solidified its status as a frontrunner. Paul Thomas Anderson’s humble acceptance of the best director prize showcased his dedication to his craft and his gratitude for the recognition.

Musical performances, including renditions of nominated songs and nostalgic reunions like Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman from “Moulin Rouge!”, added to the overall entertainment value of the show. The “In Memoriam” segment paid tribute to industry legends, though some notable omissions were noted.

However, one aspect that was lacking in the evening was a more explicit acknowledgment of the political themes at the heart of “One Battle After Another.” The film’s portrayal of contemporary American politics was a central element of its narrative, yet this was not emphasized during the ceremony. A more overt recognition of the film’s political relevance would have added depth to the celebration of its success.

Overall, the Oscars managed to strike a balance between being engaging and safe, with moments of excitement and emotion scattered throughout the night. While there were missed opportunities to delve deeper into the themes of the winning film, the show as a whole was a well-executed celebration of the magic of movies.