Politics is traditionally left at the door on Oscar night, but the charged state of world politics led several stars to make pleas for peace at this year's Awards.
Battling back tears before a standing ovation of his peers, The Pianist star Adrien Brody offered his thanks, but also said, “This fills me with great joy, but I'm also filled with a lot of sadness tonight because I'm accepting an award at such a strange time.”
"My experiences in making this film made me very aware of the sadness and the dehumanisation of people at times of war and the repercussions of war," he continued. "Whether you believe in God or Allah, may he watch over you and let's pray for a peaceful and swift resolution."
When Nicole Kidman collected her best actress gong, she likewise expressed concern over the human cost of conflict. And Spanish director Pedro Almodovar dedicated his best screenplay trophy "to those raising their voices in respect of peace, democracy and international legality - all of which are essential qualities to live".
But it was Michael Moore, who won the best documentary gong for his gun control polemic Bowling For Columbine, who made the most controversial remarks of the night.
"We are against this war, Mr. Bush. Shame on you," he declared from the podium, provoking both cheers and boos from the audience.
The 75th Academy Awards saw the tightest security operation in the event's history, with National Guard and police marksmen posted outside the venue. Organizers also decided to shorten the walkway into the ceremony, so as prevent stars being pressured for their views on the political climate.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
