Mistakes happen. Like Steve Harvey's mistake with Miss Universe, tonight it happened again at The Academy Awards. Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway, also known as Bonnie and Clyde, were selected to read the Best Picture award. The most awkward thing happened when Beatty opened the envelope—Beatty called "La La Land" as best picture, however it actually meant to "Moonlight." What happened? Apparently, it was a mistake.
Was it staged?
A moment so shocking like this begs the question—"was it staged?" The staff of "La La Land" rushed to the stage, only for Fred Berger, producer of "La La Land," to eventually spot the mistake.
"This is not a joke, "Moonlight" has won best picture," exclaimed Berger as he presented the card with the name "Moonlight." Warren Beatty claimed it was his mistake, that he saw Emma Stone on top of the card.
It was awkward, but it seemed planned. Previous Oscars mistakes included Jennifer Lawrence's trip, and Angelina Jolie's awkward kiss with her brother, but never before has an announcer made a mistake.
'Moonlight's' Win
"There was a time where I thought this wasn't possible," exclaimed Barry Jenkins as he accepted the award. The critically acclaimed "Moonlight" received extraordinary reviews, with a near 100% on Rotten Tomatoes. It also got the awards for Best Supporting Actor and Best Picture.
The awkward mistake didn't seem so weird for the "Moonlight" crew as it did for the "La La Land" group. "I will happily give this award to my friends in "Moonlight,"" said Berger.
"Moonlight" follows the story of Chiron, a young black man who grows up in Miami. He is guided by the strong support and love the community provided him and he eventually finds his way to adulthood.
The charming performance by Mahershala Ali secured the best supporting actor award.
So what do you think? Was it a mistake or was it intended? The Academy Awards will always remember this moment. Maybe the Oscars should move toward the same rules as the People's Choice Awards and let the people vote. Or, as Jimmy Kimmel said, maybe they shouldn't invite him back.