(JNS) Watching the Academy Awards used to be a simple pleasure. Movie stars received statues, thanked their agents, thanked God, and occasionally, remembered to thank their parents.
Now the Oscars have become something else: an improvised foreign-policy seminar conducted by people whose professional expertise lies in pretending to be someone else.
This year’s ceremony followed the now familiar script. Comedian Conan O’Brien, this year’s host, reminded viewers that these are “very chaotic, frightening times.” Later, comedian and TV show host Jimmy Kimmel appeared to introduce the documentary category and offered a joke about courage and free speech, quipping that some countries don’t allow it: “North Korea and CBS.”
The audience chuckled. Social media approved. Another evening of Hollywood moral commentary was underway.
The question is why the Academy Awards have become a stage for geopolitical pronouncements at all.
War. Elections. Climate change. Israel. Gaza. Iran.
Every year the subjects change slightly, but the tone remains the same: a mixture of moral certainty and remarkable lack of depth. The most complicated conflicts on...
Become a Member
-
Read all member content
Get exclusive in-depth reports from Israel.
-
Get exclusive in-depth reports from Israel
Connect with Israel, right from your home.
-
Lift up the voice of truth and hope
Support Jerusalem-based Zionist journalism.
Already a member? Login here.
