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The 2015 Oscars celebrated something far more important than movies this year! They celebrated visionaries, innovators, and leaders for some of the most important topics of our Century.
I have to admit that I’m not much of a mainstream moviegoer but I did tune in for a quick glimpse at the fashion. I stayed tuned in, however, when I heard what the celebrities were saying.
Reese Witherspoon kicked it off with a call to #AskHerMore. A movement cleverly designed to engage the audience in a dialogue about the women behind the dress. Hearing about the smart and savvy women covered in couture added a new element of intrigue and inspiration to the annual show.
Her surprise was equally matched by J.K. Simmons’ call for viewers to embrace family values. His acceptance speech centered around one thoughtful and compelling message; “Call Your Mom, Call Your Dad.”
When Patricia Arquette took the stage, she delivered yet another jaw-dropping moment. Admittedly, I was fairly confused by her speech– something awkward mumbled about “wage equality” – but in its aftermath, I realize that despite its clumsy delivery, the dissection of her poignant message has led to much needed interest and discussion about gender equality.
The best moment of the night, for me, however, was the extremely personal and intimate revelation made by Graham Moore – his struggle with suicide. Moore’s acceptance speech delivered a message of hope and acceptance. The stigma associated with mental illness will only end when we, as a community, start talking about it.
These are no longer celebrities of the movies. All of these thought provoking, innovative and brave stars are now celebrities of a bigger kind. They bravely brought strong opinions to an unexpected stage. Their messages embrace introspection, optimism, equality and hope. They are celebrities for speaking about that which is often left unsaid.
