Oscar 2021 Winners: The Complete List & Highlights

Hey everyone! Are you ready to dive into the glitz and glamour of the 2021 Oscars? This was a night filled with incredible talent, stunning fashion, and unforgettable moments. Let's take a closer look at the Oscar 2021 winners, the films that took home the gold, and some of the highlights that made this awards ceremony so special. We're going to cover everything from the big wins to the surprises, so grab your popcorn and let's get started. The 2021 Oscars, officially known as the 93rd Academy Awards, were a unique event, held amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The ceremony, which took place on April 25, 2021, at both Union Station in Los Angeles and the Dolby Theatre, showcased the resilience and creativity of the film industry during a challenging year. The Academy made some interesting choices this year, and there were definitely some unexpected victories. The whole vibe was different, with a more intimate setting and a focus on celebrating the art of filmmaking. The night was a testament to the power of cinema and the talented individuals who bring stories to life on the big screen. The show certainly had its moments, and it's always fun to look back and remember what went down. From the red carpet fashion to the acceptance speeches, the 2021 Oscars provided a night of entertainment and recognition for the best in the film industry. There were so many incredible films nominated, and the competition was fierce. It's always a tough job for the Academy to choose the winners, but it's also a great opportunity to celebrate the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the making of these amazing movies. So, let's get into it and explore the complete list of winners and the best moments from the 2021 Oscars!

Best Picture and the Top Contenders

Best Picture is always the most coveted award of the night, and in 2021, the honor went to Nomadland. Directed by Chloé Zhao, the film captivated audiences with its poignant portrayal of a woman traveling through the American West as a modern-day nomad. Nomadland wasn't just a critical darling; it resonated with viewers who appreciated its authentic storytelling and beautiful cinematography. This win was a significant moment for Zhao, who also took home the award for Best Director, making her only the second woman to win in that category. The film's success highlighted the importance of independent cinema and the power of storytelling to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level. But the race for Best Picture wasn't just about Nomadland. Other strong contenders included The Father, Judas and the Black Messiah, Mank, Minari, Promising Young Woman, Sound of Metal, and The Trial of the Chicago 7. Each of these films brought something unique to the table, and their nominations demonstrated the diversity and creativity of the film industry. Mank, directed by David Fincher, was a visually stunning black-and-white film that paid homage to the golden age of Hollywood. Minari, a heartwarming story about a Korean-American family trying to make a life for themselves in rural Arkansas, resonated with audiences worldwide. Promising Young Woman, a dark comedy-thriller, sparked important conversations about consent and sexual assault. Sound of Metal, with its powerful performances and immersive sound design, explored the world of a drummer who loses his hearing. The Trial of the Chicago 7, a legal drama based on the infamous 1969 trial, offered a timely reflection on social justice and political activism. These films, along with The Father, a moving portrayal of a man struggling with dementia, all made significant contributions to the year in film. The competition was incredibly tough, but Nomadland's sensitive exploration of themes like loss, resilience, and the search for belonging ultimately won the hearts of the Academy. This victory underscored the importance of diverse voices and authentic storytelling in the world of cinema.

Chloé Zhao's Historic Win

Chloé Zhao’s win for Best Director was a landmark moment in Oscar history. She became only the second woman to win the award, following Kathryn Bigelow's victory in 2010 for The Hurt Locker. This achievement not only celebrated Zhao's exceptional talent but also highlighted the growing recognition of female filmmakers in the industry. Her approach to filmmaking, which blends documentary-style realism with narrative storytelling, has earned her widespread acclaim. Zhao's ability to capture the beauty and fragility of the human experience through her lens is unparalleled. Her win was a powerful reminder of the importance of representation and the need to showcase diverse perspectives in cinema. The fact that Nomadland was also a Best Picture winner made Zhao's achievement even more impressive. It’s a testament to the film's artistic merit and the impact of her vision. The moment was celebrated not only by Zhao herself but also by countless filmmakers, film enthusiasts, and advocates for gender equality in the film industry. It was a victory that transcended the awards ceremony itself and contributed to a larger cultural shift, inspiring future generations of female filmmakers to pursue their dreams. Zhao's speech was moving, emphasizing the importance of empathy and connection. She dedicated her award to all the people who have experienced loss and found a way to keep moving forward. Her words resonated with viewers around the world and underscored the power of cinema to connect us and remind us of our shared humanity. The win was a huge step forward for diversity and inclusion in Hollywood.

Acting Awards: Stellar Performances

The acting categories at the Oscars always generate the most buzz. In the Best Actor category, Anthony Hopkins took home the gold for his performance in The Father. Hopkins delivered a breathtaking portrayal of a man struggling with dementia, capturing the character's confusion, fear, and moments of lucidity with remarkable nuance. His performance was widely praised by critics and audiences alike. It showcased his incredible talent and cemented his status as one of the greatest actors of all time. The role was challenging and emotional, and Hopkins brought an extraordinary depth to the character, making the audience feel every single moment. The other nominees in the Best Actor category also delivered outstanding performances, including Riz Ahmed for Sound of Metal, Chadwick Boseman for Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, Gary Oldman for Mank, and Steven Yeun for Minari. Their nominations were a testament to their dedication to their craft and the outstanding work they put into their respective films. The competition was exceptionally tough, showcasing the incredible talent within the film industry. The Best Actress award went to Frances McDormand for her role in Nomadland. McDormand's performance was understated yet powerful, capturing the spirit of a woman searching for meaning and connection on the road. Her portrayal was realistic, raw, and deeply moving. She embodied the character with a naturalness that resonated with audiences, providing an unforgettable depiction of resilience and self-discovery. Her work was a true testament to her talent and dedication to her craft. The Best Supporting Actor award went to Daniel Kaluuya for his portrayal of Fred Hampton in Judas and the Black Messiah. Kaluuya's performance was electrifying, capturing the charisma and intensity of the Black Panther leader. His win was celebrated not only for his incredible acting but also for the important story that Judas and the Black Messiah brought to the screen. The movie was a reminder of the power of activism and the fight for social justice. Finally, Yuh-jung Youn won the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in Minari. Youn's performance was heartfelt and humorous, bringing a unique perspective to the film. She played the grandmother in the film, and her portrayal was loved by the public. Her win celebrated the growing representation of Asian actors and stories in Hollywood.

Other Notable Wins and Moments

Besides the major categories, the 2021 Oscars saw some other notable wins and memorable moments. Soul took home the award for Best Animated Feature Film. This win recognized Pixar's continued success in creating visually stunning and emotionally resonant films. Soul's innovative storytelling and beautiful animation captivated audiences of all ages, celebrating themes of life, death, and finding your purpose. The movie's blend of jazz music and vibrant visuals made it a standout film of the year. Another significant win was for Another Round, which won Best International Feature Film. This Danish film explored themes of alcohol and its impact on life, with a compelling story that resonated with viewers worldwide. The film's success highlighted the strength and diversity of international cinema. Ma Rainey's Black Bottom secured the award for Best Costume Design and Best Makeup and Hairstyling, highlighting the meticulous craftsmanship behind the film's vibrant and historically accurate depiction of the 1920s. These wins were a testament to the dedication of the costume designers, makeup artists, and hairstylists who brought the film's characters to life. The award for Best Original Song went to