The EssentialShowbiz Dictionary™

of Entertainment Industry Terms

Academy Awards (Oscars)

1 minute read | Last updated: 4 months ago

What does Academy Awards (Oscars) mean?

Academy Awards, commonly known as the Oscars, are the most prestigious film awards in the world, presented annually by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. These awards recognize excellence in various categories of filmmaking, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and technical categories like cinematography and editing. For instance, in 2020, Parasite made history by becoming the first non-English language film to win Best Picture, alongside its wins for Best Director (Bong Joon-ho), Best Original Screenplay, and Best International Feature. Winning an Oscar can significantly boost the careers of actors, directors, and producers, as seen when Jennifer Lawrence won Best Actress for Silver Linings Playbook in 2013, propelling her to international stardom.

Example:Parasite (2020) became the first non-English film to win Best Picture, setting a new standard for global cinema recognition.
Example: After winning the Oscar for Best Actress in 2013, Jennifer Lawrence’s career soared, securing her roles in major films like The Hunger Games franchise and American Hustle.

Did You Know?
The name “Oscar” comes from a rumor that the award resembled an Academy librarian’s uncle named Oscar. The Academy officially adopted the name in 1939!

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