At Ray Dolby Ballroomat Hollywood & Highland Center
By Dina Morrone
It was an evening of firsts, a remarkable moment in Hollywood History that was witnessed by those in attendance at the 2019 Governors Awards.
The very first Native American actor to be awarded the golden statuette was Wes Studi, for his body of work and for his commitment to the authentic portrayal and steadfast support of the Native American Community. Actor Christian Bale introduced Studi, and handed him his Oscar. Studi stepped up to the microphone proudly, holding the Oscar in his hand, and in front of the cheering crowd, he said, “It’s about time!” And it truly was about time!
Actress Gina Davis received the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award. It was a tribute to her pioneering advocacy of Gender Parity and its impact on women’s representation on the screen. Gender Parity is an issue she has been passionate about for thirty years. She is tirelessly trying to drive her message to all in the film industry, to educate them, and to demand change.
Director David Lynch received his Honorary Award for fearlessly breaking boundaries in pursuit of his singular cinematic vision. He seemed visibly moved to be accepting his very well deserved award, which was presented to him by Laura Dern and Kyle MacLachlan. Lynch only spoke for 15 seconds, as he humbly gave a quick thank you to the Academy.
The highlight of the evening was when iconic and legendary Italian filmmaker Lina Wertmuller stepped on to the stage to accept her award. She was introduced by another Italian legend, Sophia Loren, and then was joined by the lovely Isabella Rossellini, who stood by to translate Wertmuller’s acceptance speech. As Wertmuller took the Oscar in her hand, she looked at it and then asked the crowd, “Why does the Oscar have to be a man? Why can’t it be a woman?” She went on to suggest that perhaps the Academy should change the name of the Oscar to Anna instead of Oscar. Wertmuller was awarded her Honorary Award for her provocative disruption of the political and social norms delivered with bravery through her weapon of choice: the camera lens. She was the very first female director ever to be nominated for an Academy Award back in 1977.
Photos courtesy by:
Matt Petit / ©A.M.P.A.S.
Phil McCarten / ©A.M.P.A.S.
Michael Yada Matt Petit / ©A.M.P.A.S..
Richard Harbaugh Matt Petit / ©A.M.P.A.S.
Mike Baker Matt Petit / ©A.M.P.A.S.
