As the 95th iteration of the prestigious Academy Awards approaches, cinephiles and movie enthusiasts around the world are gearing up for what promises to be the most monumental and exciting night in the film industry. The ceremony is set to take place on March 26th, 2023, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California, and will be televised live for viewers around the globe. However, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges it has brought, many people are left wondering how they can watch the Oscars from the safety and comfort of their own homes. Fear not, for in this article, we’ll take a closer look at how you can catch all the action from the 2023 Oscars.
Live Television Broadcast – The Easiest Way to Watch the Oscars
For those who prefer the traditional route, watching the Oscars through a live television broadcast may be the easiest option. The ceremony will be televised live on ABC, with coverage starting at 6:30 PM Eastern Time. This year’s ceremony will be hosted by none other than the legendary actress, producer, and philanthropist, Oprah Winfrey, who has promised a night full of excitement, glamour, and unforgettable moments.
If you have cable or satellite television, tuning in to ABC to catch the ceremony live would be a breeze. For those who don’t have access to cable or satellite, using a digital antenna can still grant access to over-the-air signals from local television stations, including ABC. Digital antennas are relatively inexpensive and can be purchased at most electronics stores or online retailers like Amazon.
Streaming Services – An Online Alternative
For those who prefer to watch the Oscars online, there are several streaming services that will be offering live coverage of the event. One of the most popular streaming services for live television is Hulu with Live TV, which offers over 60 live channels, including ABC, at a cost of $64.99 per month. A free trial is also available for those who would like to test the service before committing to a subscription.
Another popular option for streaming live television is YouTube TV, which also offers over 60 live channels, including ABC, at a cost of $64.99 per month. Like Hulu, a free trial is available to test the service.
If signing up for a live television streaming service is not an option, the Oscars can still be caught through other streaming platforms. ABC will be streaming the ceremony live on its website and mobile app. However, signing in with a cable or satellite television provider is necessary to access the stream.
Social Media – Live-Tweeting and Behind-the-Scenes Coverage
In recent years, social media has become a popular way for fans to watch and engage with major events like the Oscars. Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram all offer live streaming options, and many celebrities and media outlets will be sharing updates and behind-the-scenes content throughout the night.
Twitter is especially popular for live-tweeting events like the Oscars. Following along with the ceremony can be done by searching for the hashtag #Oscars, which will likely be trending throughout the night. Following individual celebrities and media outlets can also provide updates and commentary.
Instagram is another popular platform for Oscars coverage. Many celebrities and media outlets will be sharing photos and videos from the red carpet and inside the ceremony. Searching for the hashtag #Oscars2023 will give a glimpse of what’s happening in real-time.
Virtual Reality – A New Level of Experience
For the ultimate Oscars experience, watching the ceremony in virtual reality (VR) can provide an immersive experience. In recent years, VR technology has advanced significantly, allowing viewers to feel like they’re actually in the room with the celebrities and presenters.
One of the most popular VR platforms for live events is NextVR, which offers a variety of live events in VR, including sports, concerts, and awards shows like the Oscars. Watching the ceremony in VR requires a compatible headset like the Oculus Quest 2 or the HTC Vive. NextVR is free to download, but tickets for watching the Oscars in VR are yet to be announced. However, they typically cost more than traditional television or streaming options.
It’s important to note that for those new to VR, the experience can be intense and may cause motion sickness or eye strain. Taking frequent breaks and adjusting the settings to personal comfort levels is advised.
Oscar Parties – Celebrating with Friends and Family
Finally, many movie fans choose to celebrate the Oscars by hosting their own viewing parties. Whether watching with a group of friends or hosting a larger event, there are plenty of ways to make the night feel special.
Serving themed snacks and drinks, like popcorn, champagne, and movie theater candy, can add to the festive atmosphere. Creating personal ballots and having guests vote on who they think will win each award can add a competitive edge to the night. Awarding prizes to guests who correctly predict the most winners can also add to the fun.
For those watching with a larger group, renting a projector and screen can create a more cinematic experience. Decorations like movie posters and other Hollywood-themed decor can also add to the ambiance.
Conclusion – Many Options Available
No matter how you choose to watch the 2023 Oscars, there are plenty of options to ensure that every moment of the action is not missed. From live television broadcasts to virtual reality experiences, social media updates, and personal viewing parties, there’s something for everyone. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready to watch the biggest stars in Hollywood take the stage.
