Long before Academy Awards night rolls around on February 22, you’ve probably assembled your own slate of favorites in the Oscar race. And there’s nothing more enjoyable than comparing your picks, talking about the nominated films and performers—and of course, those you felt really should have gotten a nod—with other movie fans.
Build up some buzz for awards night by joining film writer Noah Gittell for an evening that focuses on all things Oscar. He’ll cover the history of how the Academy Awards came to be (and how they were designed to help rehabilitate Hollywood’s image in the wake of scandals and looming censorship in the late 1920s); look at memorable Oscar ceremonies, including moments both controversial and wacky (remember the infamous streaker?); and discuss what this year’s nominations tell us about today’s film industry. He’ll also offer a few predictions in the races.
Sip a Hollywood-inspired cocktail and cast your vote for the winners in several major categories, with the most accurate predictions eligible for prizes after the awards are presented on February 22. Don’t forget to come dressed to walk the red carpet for the cameras. Show up as your fabulous self or dressed as your favorite celebrity! We'll be awarding the best dressed. Brad and Angie, Marilyn, and other celebs—all courtesy of Madame Tussauds Washington, D.C.—will be on the red carpet ready to pose with you.
Tortoise and Hare will be offering a cash bar at the event, along with one complimentary "Hollywood style" drink to attendees over 21 y.o.
Gittell is a film critic for Washington City Paper, and has covered film and politics for The Atlantic, Salon, Esquire, and other publications. He blogs regularly for ReelChange.net.
Want to win tickets to our Red-Carpet Night With Oscar? Tweet at us! If your life was an Oscar-nominated movie, what would it be titled? Let us know with #MyLifeAsAnOscarMovieContest at @SmithsonianTSA and you could win! Winner will be announced on Friday, February 13th. View contest rules>>
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As the date approaches, we'll make sure you're in-the-know with fun Oscar trivia, Smithsonian artifacts, and sneak peeks of Madame Tussauds celebs.
