HOLLYWOOD —The biggest night in the entertainment industry was also one of the most exciting nights in Oscar history as the 84th Annual Academy Awards were held on Sunday, February 26. One of the most competitive categories of the night, Best Picture, went to “The Artist.” The silent movie ruled the night, winning five awards.

"The Artist" won for Best Picture.

The ceremony was hosted by famed comedian Billy Crystal who truly delivered funny in a way that no other host can do. Crystal had a hysterical opening where he paid tribute to some of the nominees for Best Picture this year, with cameos from George Clooney, Justin Bieber and Tom Cruise, to name a few. It wouldn’t be an Oscar show without some singing or dancing, as Crystal proved to do better than any other host.

The Best Actor category, a dogfight since the start of the awards season, culminated with a win by Jean Dujardin for “The Artist,” besting George Clooney who was expected to win. “I love your country,” Dujardin said while accepting his award. The Best Actress race, which was deemed by many to be a two-person race between Meryl Streep for “The Iron Lady” and Viola Davis for “The Help,” came to a definitive head by Academy voters who crowned Meryl Streep with the award for “The Iron Lady.” She broke her losing streak; she hadn’t won an Oscar since “Sophie’s Choice” in 1982. Streep received an astounding standing ovation from the audience.   She got emotional as she thanked her husband during her speech.

Meryl Streep won for Best Actress for her role in "The Iron Lady."

Best Director was another nail-bitter, but in the end it was Michel Hazanavicius who found himself victorious for “The Artist,” beating early favorite Martin Scorsese. A great moment in the ceremony occurred between Emma Stone and Ben Stiller as they presented the award for Visual Effects; it was comic genius.   Stone is such a funny girl. Acting icon Meryl Streep paid tribute to James Earl Jones, Dick Smith and Oprah Winfrey who all received Honorary Oscars.

The Supporting Actress award was given to Octavia Spencer for her role as Minny Jackson in “The Help.” She was completely shocked and received a standing ovation from the audience. “Thank you Academy for putting me with the hottest guy in the world,” said Spencer while holding her Oscar, and directing her comment toward presenter Christian Bale. Best Supporting Actor was awarded to Christopher Plummer for his performance in “Beginners.” The 82-year-old made history by becoming the oldest Oscar winner. “You’re only two year’s older than me, darling where have you been?” joked Plummer while accepting his trophy.

Best Adapted Screenplay was presented by the stunning Angelina Jolie to Alexander Payne, Jim Rosh and Nat Faxon for “The Descendants.” The award for Best Original Screenplay went to Woody Allen for “Midnight in Paris.” Allen was not in attendance at the ceremony.

The 84th Academy Awards was one of the most entertaining ceremonies in the recent 10 years. Bravo to the show’s producers and host Billy Crystal.   The awards season now comes to an end, until next year!

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