Hollywood is rolling out the red carpet for the 98th Academy Awards. While the night promises the usual glamour and star power, organizers say this year’s show will also come with heightened security measures.
The ceremony will take place on Sunday, March 15th, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, where producers say they are working closely with the LAPD and the FBI to ensure the safety of attendees, fans, and the thousands of people expected to line the streets around Hollywood Boulevard.
Oscar executive producer Raj Kapoor says safety planning is a routine part of producing a global event of this scale. But organizers are paying extra attention this year after reports of a potential drone threat connected to escalating tensions overseas. Officials stress there is no credible threat to the ceremony, but security teams are taking precautions to keep the event running smoothly.
“We want everyone who comes to the show — and even the fans standing outside the barricades — to feel safe and welcome,” Kapoor said during a press briefing.
The Race for the Oscars
Security aside, the spotlight is firmly on this year’s nominees, with “Sinners” emerging as the film to beat after leading the nominations. The drama has been a favorite with critics and could dominate major categories Sunday night.
Other strong contenders include “One Battle After Another,” “Frankenstein,” “Marty Supreme,” and “Sentimental Value,” all of which have generated serious awards-season buzz.
Industry analysts say the race for Best Picture could come down to “Sinners” and “One Battle After Another,” while several acting categories remain wide open.
Predicted Winners
Awards watchers are predicting a big night for “Sinners,” which many expect to take home Best Picture and possibly additional wins in directing and acting categories.
Meanwhile, “Frankenstein” is widely considered a technical powerhouse and could rack up wins in craft categories such as production design, visual effects, and costume design.
Films like “Sentimental Value” and “Marty Supreme” are also expected to perform well in writing and supporting acting categories.
Hollywood’s Biggest Night
The Oscars remain one of the most-watched entertainment events in the world — and a major moment for Los Angeles tourism and the entertainment industry.
Fans are already lining up around Hollywood ahead of Sunday’s show, hoping to catch a glimpse of stars arriving on the red carpet.
The 98th Academy Awards will air live Sunday night on ABC and will also stream on Hulu, bringing Hollywood’s biggest celebration of film to audiences around the world.
And if all goes according to plan, the night will deliver exactly what the Oscars promise every year: a little drama, a lot of glamour, and maybe a few surprises when those envelopes are opened.
Watch our live coverage of the Oscars on the KFI AM 640 Instagram page and make sure you listen to Gary and Shannon Monday morning at 9 am for a recap of the big night!
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