Rarely does a moment of social commentary at the Oscars go over too smoothly. Oscars 2022 was no exception. The ceremony’s “moment of silence” calling on all to donate and raise awareness for survivors of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine was picked to pieces by Twitter users. One complained about the selectivity of the Oscars’ focus on sociopolitical issues, writing, “thinking of all the countries who experienced invasions and imperialism — often involving, if not led by, the U.S. — that didn’t warrant a moment of silence from the #oscars.” Another lightheartedly mocked the gesture by quipping, “The #Oscars would like to take a brief moment of silence to recognize Flash entering the speed force” — referencing a surprising fan-voted award.
Yet another viewer noted the Coinbase.com commercial immediately following the respectful moment, criticizing that it was anything but. “The crypto ad after the moment of silence (which didn’t have a shot of the audience being silent?!?) was really gross,” he wrote. Even a much more appreciative comment noted a flaw in the Oscars’ support for Ukraine, writing, “Appreciate the #Oscars taking a moment to acknowledge #Ukraine️ but a moment of silence doesn’t accommodate our blind friends and family. #equity #wecandobetter.”
