LOS ANGELES, (Reuters) – Heartwarming movie “CODA,” about a deaf family with a hearing daughter, won the prestigious best picture prize at the Oscars yesterday, the first time a streaming service took home the film industry’s biggest prize.
“CODA” was released by Apple TV+, which beat Netflix Inc’s NFLX.O contender “The Power of the Dog” and other entries from traditional Hollywood studios.
“I really want to thank the academy for recognizing a movie of love and family at this difficult time that we need today,” producer Patrick Wachsberger said in front of the film’s cast stood on stage.
Hollywood’s most prestigious awards ceremony returned to all-out glitz at the Dolby Theatre after pandemic restrictions limited the event last year. Jessica Chastain landed the best actress award for playing TV evangelist Tammy Faye Bakker in “The Eyes of Tammy Faye.”
In other awards, Jane Campion became just the third woman in the 94-year history of the Oscars to win best director, for her dark Western “Power of the Dog.”
Troy Kotsur made history as the first deaf man to win an Oscar, earning best supporting actor for his role in “CODA.” Kotsur played Frank Rossi, the father of a teenager who struggles to help her family’s fishing business while pursuing her own aspirations in music.
“This is amazing to be here on this journey. I cannot believe I am here,” Kotsur said in a heartfelt speech delivered in sign language as he accepted the supporting actor honor.
Supporting actress went to Ariana DeBose for playing the spirited Anita, who sings “America” in Steven Spielberg’s remake of “West Side Story.”
