Oscars

In recent times, the Academy Awards have become stale. But this year, they felt fresher and more exciting than they have for a long while. Here's why.

In the final few days before the Academy Awards, and with several key races tightening, here are the BBC film critics' final expert predictions.

Traditionally, younger actresses have been favoured by the Oscars – but as BBC research shows, that's changing. Is it a sign that female ageism in the film industry is on its way out?

Twenty years ago, race-relations drama Crash controversially beat Brokeback Mountain to best picture, creating outrage. People including the film's co-writer reflect on what happened.

At the Oscars in 1986, the legendary actor and singer was snubbed by the Academy – she got even with an outrageous, legendary outfit.

The most-watched Academy Awards ceremony ever was a lavish affair in which Titanic won 11 Oscars. Since then, viewing figures have plummeted. But why?

BBC critics choose their top picks among the Academy Awards' runners and riders – and reveal whose hopes may have gone cold.