The evening of Monday, March 24th, 1986, marked the 58th presentation of the Academy Awards, officially known as the Academy Award of Merit, but more popularly referred to as the Oscars. This annual event is widely considered the most prestigious and influential honor in the American and international film industry, a night where Hollywood's brightest stars gather to celebrate artistic and technical merit in filmmaking. The nickname "Oscar" is believed by many to have originated in the early 1930s when Academy librarian Margaret Herrick reportedly remarked that the statuette resembled her Uncle Oscar, a name that subsequently caught on within the Academy staff and eventually became public.
Despite criticisms that the event has become increasingly commercialized over the years, and occasional whispers of undue influence within the Academy's voting membership, the Oscars maintain their esteemed status. This prestige stems from their long-standing tradition of recognizing excellence in a wide range of cinematic disciplines, with the winners being chosen by their peers – the accomplished members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. For filmmakers and actors alike, winning an Oscar represents the pinnacle of achievement in their craft.
On this particular night, a palpable buzz filled Los Angeles as limousines began to line up along Hollywood Boulevard, ready to deliver the stars to the iconic Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.
The red carpet was already ablaze with iconic figures from the film industry. The legendary Jack Nicholson, with his ever-present cool, mingled with the crowd. Robert Redford, a timeless icon of cinema, drew admiring glances. Meryl Streep, celebrated for her unparalleled talent, graced the event with her poise. Harrison Ford, a box office titan and beloved star, was met with enthusiastic cheers. Sidney Poitier, a figure of immense respect and a pioneer in the industry, walked the carpet with his characteristic dignity. The elegant Audrey Hepburn, a true Hollywood icon, added a touch of classic glamour to the evening. Two-time Oscar winner Sally Field also made an appearance, her radiant smile lighting up the walkway. And of course, no Oscars red carpet would be complete without the presence of Bob Hope, the master comedian and beloved host of numerous past ceremonies, his wit and charm legendary. It was truly a star-studded affair, a gathering of the brightest talents in the world of film.
Alex Hayes, looking dapper in his impeccably tailored Armani tuxedo, arrived with Mia Sara, who looked absolutely radiant in her shimmering blue sequin gown. As they stepped onto the red carpet, a sea of flashing cameras and cheering fans greeted them. Mia linked her arm through Alex's, her smile bright despite the controlled chaos around them.
They navigated the throng of reporters and photographers, pausing occasionally to pose for pictures and answer brief questions. They exchanged warm greetings with many familiar faces. Suddenly, Alex heard a familiar voice calling his name.
"Alex!"
He turned to see Diane Lane, looking stunning herself, making her way towards them. She embraced him warmly.
"You came!" Alex said, genuinely happy to see her.
"Well, two of my films got nominated," Diane replied with a smile, referring to Back to the Future, which was nominated for Best Original Screenplay and Best Sound, and Mask, which received a nomination for Best Makeup.
Diane then turned her attention to Mia. "And Mia, you look absolutely lovely this evening."
"Thank you, Diane," Mia replied, her tone polite but a touch reserved.
Just then, a chorus of voices called out from the press line. "Diane! Alex! Mia! Over here!" The reporters were eager to get photos of the trio: the established star Alex Hayes alongside the talented Diane Lane, with his beautiful girlfriend Mia. Alex and Diane smiled and positioned themselves, and Mia joined them, a brief but polite smile gracing her lips as the cameras flashed.
Just then, Steven Spielberg approached, a wide smile on his face. He gave Alex a warm hug, clapping him on the back. "Alex, great to see you! You look fantastic."
"Steven! It's wonderful to see you too," Alex said, returning the hug. He then introduced Mia properly to the acclaimed director.
As they greeted each other, a TV reporter stepped forward, holding a microphone with a prominent network logo. "Mr. Spielberg, Alex, wonderful to see you both. Can you share a little about your experience working together on Catch Me If You Can? It clearly resonated with the Academy."
Spielberg put an arm around Alex's shoulder. "It was an absolute joy. Alex is an incredibly gifted actor, bringing depth and nuance to the role that truly elevated the entire film. He's a director's dream."
Alex added, "Working with Mr. Spielberg was an incredible learning experience. His guidance and vision made the entire process so rewarding. I felt so fortunate to be part of his storytelling."
The reporter then turned solely to Spielberg. "Mr. Spielberg, this is an incredible achievement. You have the remarkable distinction of being nominated twice this year for Best Director, for both Catch Me If You Can and The Color Purple, and also both films are nominated for Best Picture, making you a double nominee in both major categories. How does that feel?"
Spielberg chuckled modestly. "It's quite surreal, to be honest. To have both films recognized in this way, with nominations for Best Director and Best Picture, is incredibly gratifying. It's a testament to the incredible vision and hard work of everyone involved in these projects, from the cast and crew to the studio. It's truly an honor for both films to be celebrated so significantly."
The reporter, seizing the opportunity, leaned in slightly. "And Mr. Spielberg, if you had to choose... which film would you want to see win Best Director?"
Spielberg paused for a moment, a thoughtful expression on his face. "That's like asking a parent to choose their favorite child! Both films represent different stories and different experiences. I would be thrilled for either one to be recognized. Tonight, we celebrate the art of filmmaking, and I'm just honored to have both my films be part of that celebration."
As the reporter turned the microphone towards Alex, he leaned in with a playful grin and added, "Well, as for me, I certainly wish he wins for Catch Me If You Can, just putting my personal bias out there!"
As the red carpet excitement began to subside and the final calls for attendees echoed, Alex took Mia's hand, and they made their way into the grand hall of the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. The atmosphere inside was even more electric than outside, a buzz of anticipation filling the air as stars mingled and found their seats. The opulent decor, the soft lighting, and the sheer number of celebrated faces created a sense of extraordinary occasion. Alex guided Mia through the crowded aisles, nodding greetings to acquaintances and fellow nominees as they made their way to their assigned seats, ready for the ceremony to begin.
The lights in the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion dimmed, and the hosts Alan Alda and Jane Fonda stepped onto the stage together, both looking elegant and welcoming.
Alan Alda was best known to audiences for his iconic role as Captain Benjamin Franklin "Hawkeye" Pierce in the critically acclaimed and long-running television series M*A*S*H (1972-1983). For his work on the show, he received numerous accolades, including multiple Emmy Awards for acting, writing, and directing.
Jane Fonda had already established herself as a major star and a respected dramatic actress by 1986. Daughter of legendary actor Henry Fonda, her career took off in the 1960s with roles in films like Cat Ballou (1965) and Barefoot in the Park (1967). She went on to win two Academy Awards for Best Actress, first for her powerful performance in Klute (1971) and later for her role in Coming Home (1978).
"Good evening, all one billion of you!" Jane Fonda announced, her voice warm and welcoming.
Alan Alda announces with a smile on his face. "there are so many people around the world watching tonight that we're calling on the linguistic Services of our co-host Robin Williams."
The audience cheered as Robin Williams bounded onto the stage, his energy infectious. In his signature rapid-fire style, he launched into a hilarious series of greetings, mimicking different accents and throwing in bits of gibberish that vaguely resembled various languages. He seamlessly transitioned between these mock greetings, exaggerating the accents and throwing in humorous gestures. He didn't insult the countries themselves, but was a playful jab at cultural ignorance of Americans, delivered with Robin Williams' characteristic manic energy and charm.
Robin Williams gave a quick bow and a wave before exiting the stage to thunderous applause. Alan Alda and Jane Fonda then continued the ceremony.
Jane Fonda: "Well, it's time for the Oscars again."
Alan Alda: "Yeah, tensions—to say nothing of limousines—have been stretched beyond endurance."
Jane Fonda: "Another year, another night."
Alan Alda: "With the fervent hope that the night doesn't take another year!" (joking about the length of the ceremony) The audience roared with laughter.
Jane Fonda: "Some of our winners will clearly be at a loss for words. Their search may go on indefinitely."
Alan Alda: "Yeah, with that in mind, we'd like to say a little something to those whose cups so runneth over that sometimes the show runneth over as well." This was another joke at the lengthy speeches by winners, which evoked laughter from the audience.
Jane Fonda: "So you won't have to, please let us thank the following for you"
Alan Alda: "One or both of your parents—depending on how well they got along, and/or which one got custody of you."
Jane Fonda: "Your wife or your husband or your lover."
Alan Alda: "Or all three if you've led a colorful life" (The audience, including Alex and Mia in their seats laughs at that.) "Your children who having been thanked can now switch over and watch something R-rated on cable."
Jane Fonda: "Your agent."
Alan Alda: "Your manager."
Jane Fonda: "Your lawyer."
Alan Alda: "Your accountant."
Jane Fonda: "Your therapist."
Alan Alda: "Your analyst."
Jane Fonda: "Your publicist."
Alan Alda: "Your aerobicist."
Alan Alda looks at Jane, who gives him an irritated look and says, "No offense. Sorry." The audience roared with laughter, knowing Jane Fonda's history with exercise videos. Alex glanced at Mia, who was laughing, clearly remembering her own copy of those videos.
Jane Fonda continued: "All those who knew you when."
Alan Alda: "Whoever lent you a hand."
Jane Fonda: "Lent you an ear."
Alan Alda: "Lent you a dime."
Jane Fonda: "Your director, who became the soil that allowed you to grow."
Alan Alda: "The people in makeup."
Jane Fonda: "In wardrobes."
Alan Alda: "In props."
Jane Fonda: "And hair."
Alan Alda: "The acting coach."
Jane Fonda: "The coach drivers."
Alan Alda: "The assistant of everyone."
Jane Fonda: "The guard at the gate."
Alan Alda: "The animal trainers."
Jane Fonda: "The animals."
Alan Alda: "And the writers. Why not?" The audience erupted in laughter, appreciating the subtle jab at writers often being overlooked.
Jane Fonda: "And now, in keeping with another movie tradition, we have a Coming Attraction."
Alan Alda: "A presentation of all the Academy Award nominees we're here to honor tonight."
Jane Fonda: "Each a star in their field, together a dazzling constellation."
Alan Alda: "Ladies and gentlemen, here is the class of 1986. Will all the nominees please stand?"
The lights in the auditorium brightened, and all the nominees, including Alex Hayes, stood up amidst a wave of enthusiastic applause. As the sound washed over him, Alex couldn't help but wonder what it would feel like to hear that applause directed solely at him, as the winner of an Oscar.