The 2023 Academy Awards paid tribute to a wide range of industry figures in its in memoriam segment, but it was the opening clip of Aleksei A. Navalny from the Oscar-winning documentary “Navalny” that set the tone for the emotional evening. Navalny, the Russian opposition leader who tragically passed away in a Russian prison last month, was honored with a powerful quote onscreen: “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good people to do nothing.”
The tribute continued with recognition for other stars and filmmakers who have left us since the previous Oscars ceremony. Icons such as Harry Belafonte, the groundbreaking performer and activist, and Chita Rivera, the Broadway star with film credits, were remembered alongside acclaimed directors like Norman Jewison, known for classics like “In the Heat of the Night” and “Fiddler on the Roof.”
To accompany the heartfelt tributes, the legendary tenor Andrea Bocelli delivered a moving performance of “Time to Say Goodbye,” featuring a new orchestration by Hans Zimmer, alongside his son, Matteo Bocelli.
Among the figures honored by the Academy were Alan Arkin, Andre Braugher, Michael Gambon, William Friedkin, Bo Goldman, Glenda Jackson, Piper Laurie, Bill Lee, Richard Lewis, Ryan O’Neal, Matthew Perry, Paul Reubens, Richard Roundtree, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Tina Turner, and Carl Weathers. Each of these individuals made significant contributions to the film industry and left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.
As the Academy Awards celebrated the achievements of the past year, it also took a moment to remember those who have shaped the industry and left behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers and performers.
