As promised, Oscars gave us its woke moment.
TheWrap previously reported that the #TimesUp movement would be recognized on Sunday’s telecast, but not until three of Harvey Weinstein’s most recognizable accusers took the stage would we know how significant that moment would be.
Salma Hayek, who documented terrible verbal abuse at the hands of Weinstein; Ashley Judd, who accused Weinstein of trying to attack her in a hotel room; and actresses Annabella Sciorra, who accused Weinstein of rape, stood for extended applause before discussing movements like #MeToo, #TimesUp and the groundbreaking inclusive representation in film this year.
“It’s nice to see you all again, it’s been a while,” Sciorra said. “This year, many shared their truth and the journey ahead is long but slowly a new path has emerged.”
Judd spoke of the powerful new voices being heard, “joining together in a mighty course that is finally saying time’s up.”
The women pivoted to a video package featuring fellow Weinstein accuser Mira Sorvino, among many other Hollywood figures. Acknowledgment of the unprecedented amount of women speaking out about systemic sexual abuse in Hollywood gave way to the positive strides we’ve made with films like “Get Out” and “Lady Bird.”
Comedian Kumail Nanjiani was a breakout in the package, bringing some laughs with some hard truths. Nanjiani said some of his favorite movies of all time were made by white men about what its like being a white man.
“Now straight white dudes can watch movies starring me, and you can relate to that. It’s not that hard, I’ve done it my whole life,” Nanjiani said. The Dolby Theatre erupted into applause.
The package also featured Greta Gerwig and Jordan Peele. We’ll post the package here when it becomes available.