4 ways this year’s Oscar speeches struck a chord

This year’s Oscars program was scrutinized more than any of the previous 89 installments.

Following a year that has seen major revelations and groundswells shake up the power structure of Hollywood’s elites, the show had a tall order to satisfy all interested stakeholders.

The New York Times wrote:

Rarely had more pressure been placed on an Oscar telecast. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences had the burden of trying to keep ratings from falling, while celebrating films that have, for the most part, not been widely seen. The ceremony was expected to acknowledge the appalling sexual harassment scandals that have engulfed Hollywood in recent months — and then go back to gazing lovingly at the history of moviemaking to mark Oscar’s 90th birthday.

Some speeches highlighted diversity and the hope that many have for the future of Hollywood. Other speeches were succinct, thanking family and loved ones and avoiding controversy.

Here are four lessons from celebrities’ prepared remarks during Hollywood’s biggest night:

1. Make your call to action specific.