The Academy Awards may represent the year's best in film, but they are also an important event that allows celebrities to be themselves and speak to fans from a very public platform. What stars say at a major awards show can have a lasting effect (just ask Jennifer Lawrence). Per usual, the best quotes of the 2016 Oscars ranged from inspiring speeches to jokes that made us think.
This year's nominees represent films with some heavy issues, so naturally, there is a lot to talk about. The slated presenters also add their own commentary, whether it's through a tribute or a funny bit. And let's not forget the frequent gems that come from unexpected sources: behind the scenes folks like lesser known directors or cinematographers taking the stage for the first time. Unfortunately, the Academy Awards don't booze their attendees up as much as, say, the Golden Globes, but it's still usually a fun time for all involved.
We may not remember which films won the awards at the end of the day (not all of us are film buffs, OK?), but we will remember those unforgettable Oscar moments. Without further ado, here are some of the best quotes from the 2016 Academy Awards that made it a night to remember.
1. "Those hamburgers right there."
OK, so this was during the pre-show, but Charlize Theron's answer to what she was most excited about at the Oscars was too good.
2. "Hollywood is sorority racist."
There are too many quotes to pick from Chris Rock's opening monologue, but that's definitely one to remember. He followed up that line with an example, "We really like you... but you're not a Kappa." A funny but pointed look at the racism in the industry he spent much of his monologue discussing.
3. "We have two Academy Awards between us."
Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe have already won the award for best presenter banter. Honorable mention to Gosling for his definition of Adapted Screenplay as "the screenplay best at adapting to the harsh conditions and technical difficulties that were thrown its way."
4. "What a lovely day!"
Mad Max: Fury Road costume designer Jenny Beavan stole all of our hearts.
5. "This is what happens when determined women get together."
Preach. Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, the winner of Best Documentary Short, used her acceptance speech to talk about women in film, as well as important issues facing women across the world.
6. "This Oscar is going home in a Honda Civic."
The comedian pointed out how not all filmmakers are rich and glamorous, to hilarious effect.
7. "Tonight should not determine the hard work and effort that you put into your craft."
Kevin Hart's tribute to the snubbed actors and actresses of color should not be overshadowed by the fact that he was bleeped.
8. "Thanks Chris! I loved you in Madagascar!"
Is there anything Jacob Tremblay could say that wouldn't make us all melt from the cuteness?
9. "They did nothing wrong."
Joe Biden's introduction of Lady Gaga and call for viewers to support survivors of sexual assault, the focus of The Hunting Ground, was so important.
10. "Let's make sure that once and for all the color of the skin becomes as irrelevant as the length of the hair."
As one of the only people of color nominated, these were powerful words from Best Director winner Alejandro G. Iñárritu.
11. "To my friends... you know who you are."
Does that mean I can start telling people that I'm Leonardo DiCaprio's friend? Middle School goals achieved!
This year's Academy Awards managed to mix important discussions with the usual awards show comedic bits, culminating in a night full of great quotes.
