The 92nd Academy Awards: A Historic Night for ‘Parasite’

On February 9, 2020, the 92nd Academy Awards ceremony took place at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California. This event marked a significant milestone in the history of the Oscars, as it saw the South Korean film Parasite make history by becoming the first non-English language film to win the coveted Best Picture award.

Context and Build-Up

The Academy Awards, commonly known as the Oscars, are presented annually by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) to recognize excellence in cinematic achievements. The 92nd edition of the awards was notable for its diverse range of nominees and the growing conversation around representation and inclusion in Hollywood.

Parasite, directed by Bong Joon-ho, had already garnered critical acclaim and several awards leading up to the Oscars, including the Palme d’Or at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival. The film is a darkly comedic thriller that explores themes of class disparity and social inequality, resonating with audiences worldwide.

Key Events of the Night

• Best Picture Win: Parasite won the Best Picture award, making history as the first non-English language film to achieve this honor. The win was a significant moment for international cinema and highlighted the Academy’s evolving recognition of global storytelling.

• Multiple Wins for *Parasite*: In addition to Best Picture, Parasite won three other Oscars: Best Director for Bong Joon-ho, Best Original Screenplay, and Best International Feature Film. Bong Joon-ho’s acceptance speech was particularly memorable, as he paid tribute to his fellow nominees and expressed gratitude for the recognition.

• Other Notable Winners:

  • Joaquin Phoenix won Best Actor for his role in Joker.
  • Renée Zellweger received the Best Actress award for her portrayal of Judy Garland in Judy.
  • Brad Pitt and Laura Dern won Best Supporting Actor and Actress for their roles in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and Marriage Story, respectively.

Aftermath and Significance

The success of Parasite at the 92nd Academy Awards was a watershed moment for the film industry, signaling a shift towards greater inclusivity and appreciation for international cinema. It challenged the traditional boundaries of the Oscars and opened the door for more diverse narratives to be celebrated on such a prestigious platform.

The film’s triumph also sparked discussions about the importance of subtitles and the accessibility of foreign films to English-speaking audiences. Bong Joon-ho famously remarked, “Once you overcome the one-inch tall barrier of subtitles, you will be introduced to so many more amazing films.”

Overall, the 92nd Academy Awards not only celebrated the achievements of Parasite but also underscored the power of storytelling to transcend language and cultural barriers, leaving a lasting impact on the global film industry.