Oscars 2021: Awards to get under way with in-person LA ceremony as ten British names in the running

Movie stars are getting ready for the ninety-third Academy Awards – with ten British names in the race for success.

The Oscars are finally taking place tonight after set backs caused by the pandemic in February.

The awards will be held in-person mostly in Los Angeles with two other international venues in London and Paris.

Other major awards shows, which have had virtual elements amid the health crisis have suffered sharp ratings declines.

The Golden Globes sank to a 13-year low in viewing figures and the Grammys recorded its lowest-ever viewership; commentators have predicted the Oscars may be in for a similar drop in viewers.

Where will the ceremony take place?

The ceremony itself will mostly take place at Union Station in downtown LA, with some events from the Oscars’ usual home of the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Some nominees will appear from international locations, including London and Paris.

Attendees have been told they will not be required to wear masks while on camera, though producers promised face coverings would have a part to play in the broadcast.

Which Brits are in the running?

It could be a good night for homegrown talent – across the 20 acting categories, eight nominees are British.

The Father’s Sir Anthony Hopkins, Sound Of Metal’s Riz Ahmed and Mank’s Gary Oldman are all up for best actor.

Daniel Kaluuya is widely tipped to take home best supporting actor for his role in Judas And The Black Messiah, in a category also containing The Trial Of The Chicago 7 star Sacha Baron Cohen.

Carey Mulligan – star of revenge thriller Promising Young Woman – is up for best actress, alongside Vanessa Kirby for Pieces Of A Woman.

Previous Oscar winner Olivia Colman is nominated for best supporting actress for The Father.

Behind the camera, Emerald Fennell is up for best director for her directorial debut Promising Young Woman while Cornish cinematographer Joshua James Richards is nominated for his work on Nomadland.

Who is hosting the Oscars?

Presenters include Brad Pitt, Regina King and Harrison Ford – but there will be no host this year.

They will be joined by other A-listers including Academy Award winners Laura Dern, Regina King, Joaquin Phoenix, and Reese Witherspoon.