This year the Oscar nominated movies all seemed to have deep themes, and the acceptance speeches absolutely reflected that. Emotions were running high last night during the 87th Academy Awards. There was no shortage of heartfelt and inspiring speeches, but there were a few speeches that stood out more than other. These are the four speeches that I found most powerful.
1. Patricia Arquette, Best Supporting Actress: BoyhoodPatricia Arquette used her shining moment to address the issue of wage inequality, which is still very much a concern of today. Arquette passionately demanded that in 2015 women deserve to make the same as men. And to make the speech even better, Meryl Streep should her support.
2. Graham Moore, Best Adapted Screenplay: The Intimation GameGraham Moore used his speech as an opportunity to speak out for all the people that feel like they might not fit in. Moore was proof that being yourself really pays off in the long run. He has had a history of depression and even addressed his suicide attempt at the age of 16. “Stay weird, stay different!” Moore proclaimed as he held his award which such enthusiasm. Not only was Graham Moore’s speech so inspiring, but he also was incredibly adorable.
3. Common and John Legend, Best Original Song: Glory for SelmaTo call this speech moving would be an understatement. It is was clear that Common and John Legend were passionate about the meaning behind their song Glory. Both of them made it be known that Selma may have been about a movie set 50 years ago, but Glory and Selma are important now. By the end of this speech there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.
4. Eddie Redmayne, Best Actor: The Theory of EverythingEddie Redmayne’s speech was both extremely cute and moving. At the beginning of his speech Redmayne was so excited that he could barely contain himself, but he was able to pull himself together and speak about the horrible disease of ALS. He said this award was truly for the all the people suffering with ALS, as well has the Hawkings family. And if Eddie Redmayne wasn’t cute enough, he ended his speech gushing about his gorgeous new bride.