The most human moments of Oscar night can’t be captured on a mani-cam. When a winner is announced—and a lifelong dream is realized—is when the best stuff happens.
 |
Roberto Benigni, Best Foreign Language Film, “Life is Beautiful” (1999): Forgetting that he was in a tuxedo, when Sophia Loren opened the envelope and shouted, “Roberto!,” Benigni jumped up on his seat. Then he gushed the best speech ever. (We dare you not to cry.)
 |
Halle Berry, Best Actress, “Monster’s Ball” (2002): This was the year Berry became the first African-American woman to win best actress in a leading role—a distinction she still holds today. Her dress from this night is iconic, but this moment was pretty legendary.
 |
Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, Original Screenplay, “Good Will Hunting” (1997): Young Matt and Ben, who brought their moms as their dates, shouted them out as “the most beautiful women here.” Need we say more?
 |
Marlee Matlin, Best Actress, “Children of a Lesser God” (1987): Another “first and only” moment: Matlin was and is the only deaf artist to win for best actress. She spoke in sign language and joked that she didn’t have a speech prepared.
 |
Whoopi Goldberg, Best Supporting Actress, “Ghost” (1991): Whoopi looked stunned (in a good way) as she told the audience she’d wanted to win an Oscar “ever since she was a little kid.” How awesome for her?
 |
Cuba Gooding Jr., Best Supporting Actor, “Jerry Maguire” (1996): The music tried to cut him off, but he wouldn’t let it. And he got a standing ovation for it. We love everybody who was involved with that.
