Best Cinematographer was not the reason millions tuned into the most highly anticipated awards show this season. People were watching the Oscars to see what Lupita Nyong’o wore, to hear her acceptance speech (we knew she was going to win) and to cheer as Steve McQueen walked on stage to accept his award!
Critically acclaimed 12 Years a Slave has shone a gleaming light on three great talents Steven Mc Queen, John Ridley and Lupita Nyong’o. The wins for Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Supporting Actress and Best Film represented not only a win for the cast and crew of the film but to Solomon Northup and an entire community.
The wins marked a historic moment. The 2014 Oscars marked the 75th anniversary of Hattie McDaniel’s win for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Gone With the Wind. McDaniel was the first African American to win an Academy Award. Nyong’o took home that same award and gave a speech that brought tears to the audience. Little brown girls can see themselves in Nyong’o and remember “no matter where you are from, your dreams are valid.”
McQueen took all of that history and talent and proclaimed the night a glorious one of reflection, recognition and of course, celebration.These men and women gave us all a reason to jump for joy!
