The film Pinocchio Guillermo del Toro claimed the award for Best Animated Feature at the 95th Academy Awards, a ceremony that drew global attention when it aired on Sunday from the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. The win marked a high point for this distinctive reimagining of a classic tale, blending bold artistry with a modern sensibility that resonates with audiences across North America. The announcement underscored the film’s appeal not only as a technical achievement in animation but also as a storytelling work that challenges conventional fairy tale conventions while staying faithful to the emotional core of Carlo Collodi’s centuries-old story.
Rooted in the beloved fairy tale The Adventures of Pinocchio by Italian author Carlo Collodi, this Guillermo del Toro adaptation has earned critical acclaim beyond the Oscar stage, including recognition at the Golden Globes for its creative vision and narrative bravery. The production stands out for its rich stop-motion animation, its moody, immersive atmosphere, and its willingness to address weighty themes through a lens that is both haunting and distinctly humane. The film’s triumph sits within a broader landscape of animated features that year, reflecting a moment when animated storytelling was celebrated as a medium capable of depth, nuance, and universal appeal.
Alongside Pinocchio Guillermo del Toro, several other animated projects competed for the same top prize. The lineup included works such as Marseille, The Shell in the Shoes, Puss in Boots 2: The Last Wish, I’m Blush, and The Sea Monster, each bringing its own unique voice and technical prowess to audiences around the world. These nominations highlighted the diversity of approaches in contemporary animation—from inventive visual textures to bold narrative experiments—demonstrating how the form can broaden its reach while maintaining artistic integrity and emotional impact.
The 95th Academy Awards took place at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, a venue steeped in film history that has hosted many memorable moments in the awards season. The ceremony brought together artists, producers, and filmmakers from multiple disciplines to celebrate achievements in cinema, including categories that recognize innovation in animation, sound design, score, and performance. The event served as a showcase for creative collaboration and the power of storytelling to connect audiences across cultures and languages.
Earlier reports noted controversy surrounding a potential appearance by Ukraine’s president at the event. It was stated that President Volodymyr Zelensky faced restrictions on speaking at the Oscars, a claim attributed to statements by Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmitry Kuleba. The situation was part of a broader conversation about political engagement at global film awards. While the president has previously appeared on international stages such as the Grammys and the Cannes Film Festival, this event marked a complex moment in the intersection of politics and entertainment, highlighting the delicate balance international figures often navigate when attending high-profile cultural ceremonies.