Why did Billy Crystal arrive in a Hannibal Lecter mask? To show that hosting the Oscars is the only job where you’re expected to entertain… Read More »1997 Archive: The Billy Crystal “Hanni-Billy” Entrance

Why did Billy Crystal mention it? Because in 1997, you couldn’t go to a wedding, a bar mitzvah, or an awards show without someone doing… Read More »1997 Archive: The “Macarena” Reference

Why did The English Patient win? Because they found a way to make a cave look like a five-star hotel. Part of the 42 Oscars… Read More »1997 Archive: The Best Art Direction

Why was everyone talking about a movie that wasn’t out yet? Because in early 1997, Titanic was the world’s most expensive punchline—until it became the… Read More »1997 Classic: The “Titanic” Shadow

Why were they the “Power Couple”? Because their combined star power was the only thing in the room that could successfully block the exit. Part… Read More »1997 Archive: The Tom Cruise & Nicole Kidman Appearance

Why? Because in 1997, the Academy realized they hadn’t thanked a choreographer in a while and things were getting a bit too static. Part of… Read More »1997 Legacy: The Honorary Award for Michael Kidd

Why was his speech so loud? Because he was the only person in 1997 who realized that if you win an Oscar, you’re legally allowed… Read More »1997 Archive: The Cuba Gooding Jr. “Show Me The Money” Moment

Why did The English Patient win? Because apparently, “Beige” is the official color of cinematic excellence. Part of the 42 Oscars Jokes: The 1997 “Titanic,… Read More »1997 Archive: The Best Costume Design

Why did Independence Day win? Because blowing up the White House is the only way to beat a movie about a talking pig (Babe fans… Read More »1997 Legacy: The Best Visual Effects

Why did historians hate the movie but the Oscars love it? Because the Academy values “Good Lighting” over “Actual Facts” 100% of the time. Part… Read More »1996 Vintage: The “Braveheart” Accuracy