Beyond the Statuette: UNCSA's impact on the 2024 Academy Awards

The Academy Awards ceremony, more commonly known as the Oscars, stands as the pinnacle of recognition in the entertainment industry. An annual celebration of cinematic excellence, this prestigious event brings together the brightest stars, visionary filmmakers and dedicated industry professionals to honor outstanding achievements in filmmaking. 

From "Wicked" red carpet moments and heartfelt acceptance speeches to Ryan Gosling’s “I’m Just Ken” performance in a bedazzled pink suit, the 2024 Oscars captivated global audiences, showcasing the artistry and impact of the silver screen. And UNCSA made a strong appearance in the night's award-winning films.

Here's a list of all the 2024 Oscar-winning films with UNCSA connections — in alphabetical order.

Barbie

“Barbie” won the Oscar for Best Original Song for “What Was I Made For?” by Billie Eilish and Finneas O'Connell. The film follows Stereotypical Barbie as she experiences a full-on existential crisis and embarks on a journey of self-discovery.

School of Filmmaking alumnus Tom Klane (B.F.A. '18) served as a dailies colorist/technician: company 3 for the film. Klane’s recent work includes fellow Golden Globe-nominated film "Killers of the Flower Moon" and the 2021 superhero film "The Suicide Squad."

Oppenheimer

"Oppenheimer" won the Oscar for actor in a leading role, actor in a supporting role, cinematography, directing, film editing, original score and best picture. The film, based on the true story of theoretical physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer, focuses on the titular character's experience during World War II. During that time, Oppenheimer served as the director of the Manhattan Project's Los Alamos Laboratory, where the first nuclear weapons were developed.

Several alumni have connections to the film, including School of Drama alumni Dylan Arnold (B.F.A. '16), who portrayed Frank Oppenheimer; Dane DeHaan (B.F.A.' 08), who portrayed Kenneth Nichols; and Steve Coulter (B.F.A. '81), who portrayed James Conant. School of Design and Production Wig & Makeup Design alumna Ashley Ray Callahan (B.F.A. '12) served as an additional hair stylist on the film. 

Additionally, thanks to their experience working with the Film Archives, two staff members and eight alumni served as 70 mm projectionists for "Oppenheimer." School of Filmmaking alumni Jesse Price, Adam Witmer, Jonathan Foster, Christopher Schneider, Lucas Taylor, Noelle Aleman, Scott DuVall and Jason Garnett and staff members Matt Jones and Eric Self served as projectionists for the film.

Poor Things

"Poor Things" won the Oscar for actress in a leading role, costume design, makeup and hairstyling and production design. The film follows the fantastical evolution of Bella Baxter — a young woman brought back to life by the brilliant and unorthodox scientist — Dr. Godwin Baxter.

Margaret Qualley, who attended the School of Dance's High School Ballet program, plays Felicity in the film.

Honorable Mentions

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo announce award

Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande walked the 2024 Oscars red carpet in gowns that paid homage to their roles in the upcoming film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical "Wicked." The pair presented the awards for Best Original Song and Best Original Score.

School of Design and Production alumnus Paul Tazewell (B.F.A. '86) served as costume designer and School of Drama alumna Tiffany Little Canfield (B.F.A. '00) was casting director for the two-part film series.

Did you catch a connection to a 2024 Oscars win that is not included on this list? Send us an email and we will update the story.

by Natalie Shrader

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