The Academy Awards

Probably the most famous awards ceremony in the world, the annual presentation of prizes for “excellence in cinematic achievements” are more commonly known as the Oscars. The winners are voted for by members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which is made up of actors, directors and other professionals in the film industry.

Who is “Oscar”?

The Academy Award statuette depicts a naked male figure holding a sword and standing on a base formed by a film reel. There is some debate about how the figure came to be dubbed “Oscar”. The most famous story has the Academy’s librarian claiming that it reminded her of her Uncle Oscar, while another version suggests that Bette Davis named her award after her first husband. In either case the name was officially adopted by the Academy in 1939.

Oscrs resources

Internet Gateway links

• The Oscars - Academy Awards Official Site
• Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
• More film and motion picture websites
• New Zealand film and motion picture websites

Browse the resources in our libraries

• Academy Awards History
• Academy Awards Fashion