The Oscars were a little different this year: they were postponed for two months, and took place entirely outside at a train station, an interesting but necessary choice as the location was open air and plenty of room for social distancing.

The Oscars are an academy awards show which focus on artistic skill in the film industry. Awards include best actor, best actress, best picture, best visual effects and best original score. The Oscars are the oldest worldwide entertainment awards ceremony, and are widely regarded as the most prestigious awards show in the world.  

But why are they called the Oscars? In 1931, an originator to the show named Margaret Herrick saw the award and thought it reminded her of her uncle Oscar. Thus, the name of the awards show was born. 

This was the third year in a row without a formal host. Since 2019, when Kevin Hart stepped down because of a homophobia controversy, there have not been any official hosts for the program. 

One award that upset many fans was the “best actor” award, which people thought should have gone to the late Chadwick Boseman for his role in “MaRainey’s Black Bottom” , but  instead Anthony Hopkins won for his role in “The Father”.

This year’s Oscars made good use of their situation, but I’m looking forward to seeing the normal format once the pandemic is over.