Pandemic-era Oscars: What to expect
Several venues, safety protocols, `shot like a movie' — and of course, the stars
Q Where and when are the Oscars happening?
A While the Dolby Theatre will still play a part as in years past, most of the ceremony will take place at Los Angeles's Union Station — specifically, the Grand Waiting Room and Historic Ticket Hall.
Q What will the ceremony look like?
A All things considered, the ceremony might actually look pretty normal. Union Station attendees will be split between the indoor venue and two adjacent courtyards, rotating as makes sense for the show. Variety reported after the conference that attendees wouldn't be asked to wear masks while on camera, as follows from the show abiding by film and television production protocol.
In the literal sense, the show will be shot “like a movie” in widescreen at 24 frames per second. Glenn Weiss, who has previously won an Emmy for directing the Oscars, will return to helm the telecast. Questlove will serve as musical director, an assignment he said he “manifested” years ago. The Oscars will once again go without a host, instead inviting a star-studded “cast” of presenters, including Angela Bassett, Halle Berry, Bong Joon Ho, Don Cheadle, Bryan Cranston, Laura Dern, Harrison Ford, Regina King, Marlee Matlin, Rita Moreno, Joaquin Phoenix, Brad Pitt, Reese Witherspoon, Renée Zellweger and Zendaya.
Q Who is attending?
A Attendance will be limited to nominees, their guests and other folks essential to the ceremony (such as the aforementioned presenters) — coming in at around 170 people total. Everyone will reportedly be tested for COVID multiple times before the show and temperature-checked when they get there.
Q Is there a red carpet?
A The red carpet will be folded into a pre-show, for which coverage begins at 6:30 p.m. ET. E! News will begin its live coverage at 5 p.m. ET, led by Giuliana Rancic and guest co-host Karamo Brown.