Oscars 2026 Luncheon: A Candid Class Photo Unveils Hollywood's Quirks
The 98th Academy Awards nominees luncheon on Tuesday provided a refreshing break from the often tedious Oscars ceremony, with the annual class photo stealing the spotlight. This unofficial event, where all nominees gather without the pressure of televised awards, offers a unique glimpse into the personalities of Hollywood's finest.
Guillermo del Toro: The Front-Row Showboater
In the front and center of the photo, Guillermo del Toro, nominated for Frankenstein, commands attention with his animated gestures, reminiscent of a wacky wedding usher. While other nominees appear unsure with their hands, del Toro waggles them energetically, as if hosting his own party. Notably, Paul Thomas Anderson seems to be holding him back, adding to the playful chaos.
Oliver Laxe: The Towering Giant
Traditionally, tall nominees are placed in the back row to avoid obscuring others, but Oliver Laxe, director of Sirāt, stands out as the tallest figure. Surpassing even Jacob Elordi and Stellan Skarsgård, Laxe's colossal height draws focus, sparking jokes about using him as a human mug tree for future events.
Diane Warren: The Master of Camouflage
Diane Warren, nominated for Dear Me from her documentary Diane Warren: Relentless, opts for a subdued look in all black, blending seamlessly into the crowd. Her muted appearance contrasts with her usual bold style, leading to speculation that she might be hiding from the photographer. Fans hope for a more flamboyant display next year.
Ron Dyens: Flaunting Past Success
Ron Dyens, nominated for the animated short Butterfly, wears a cat T-shirt from Flow, last year's best animated feature winner, which he produced. This bold move showcases his prior Oscar win, setting a humorous precedent for nominees to flaunt their achievements casually.
Ronald Bronstein: The Guardian Journalist Pose
Ronald Bronstein, co-writer of Uncut Gems and nominated for Marty Supreme, strikes a pose identical to Guardian journalist byline photos—standing sideways with a serious, curious expression. This quirky stance raises questions about whether it's a tribute or an audition for a new career path.
The Oscars nominees luncheon class photo continues to be a beloved tradition, revealing more about Hollywood's dynamics than any winners list ever could.
