Al Pacino's Best Picture Presentation Was 'Peak Performance' and You Can't Convince Us Otherwise

Even though some people were frustrated, the amazing performer provided the 96th Academy Awards with the lack of excitement that it rightfully deserved. Let's be honest here - everyone already knew that Oppenheimer was going to win.

Al Pacino, famous for his awe-inspiring acting, delivered a performance at the Oscars that was so outstanding, it would be unfair to describe it as subtle instead of disinterested. He was chosen to announce the grandest award of the night, the Best Picture, but his lack of enthusiasm was so confusing that it not only bewildered the audience, but also the organizers of the Academy Awards broadcast.

Pacino appeared to improvise his introduction for the category. He made a jest about performing some Shakespeare before transitioning into a generic speech about how one film will win the Best Picture award out of the ten nominated. Typically, the presenter would also name the ten films, but Pacino skipped over this step (likely because he knew the show was finishing earlier than expected).

Instead, Pacino spoke a phrase that will definitely be remembered in Oscars history: "I have to check the envelope for this... and I will... here it comes... and I see Oppenheimer."

When Pacino spoke, it gave a feeling of uncertainty to the audience and some people clapped, possibly confused because of the La La Land/Moonlight mix-up from the previous year. Pacino double-checked the card and confirmed the correct winner. After this, the orchestra began to play and the cameras turned to the Oppenheimer cast and crew.

Regrettably, Pacino left some online viewers puzzled, especially with his choice to not announce all the nominees. This was criticized by numerous media sources and people, even the Daily Mail went as far as deeming it a mistake. Some were disappointed that Pacino didn't bring any excitement or suspense to the event, as if it wasn't already evident that Oppenheimer was going to win.

According to one user, Jane Fonda did an excellent job of presenting the Best Picture award and showed a great understanding of the moment. She took a suitable pause before announcing Parasite as the winner. Now, let's contrast that with Al Pacino presenting the same award.

However, some people acknowledged the astonishing talent demonstrated by Pacino in his speech. These individuals commended the disorder and disarray that he caused, and praised him for not caring about conforming to expectations. They also highlighted that Pacino is one of the most exceptional actors of his time, and he is not required to show unwavering respect to the Academy Awards. In fact, some of them shared that if they were in Pacino's shoes and their sole Oscar was for a movie like "Scent of a Woman," they would not take the ceremony seriously either.

Alternatively, another individual expressed that Al Pacino appeared to have just woken up, made his way to the stage, announced the recipient's name after opening the envelope, and left. This is the optimal way of presenting an award. You might not agree with it, but this is the ultimate level of achievement.

When Al Pacino got up from his bed, he went on stage and announced the name of the winner after opening an envelope. This is what makes for the perfect award presenter. You may not find it pleasing, but this is the epitome of outstanding performance.

Here's a chance to revisit Al Pacino's hilarious take on attending the Oscars, which he shared during an interview many years ago. Instead of quoting it, we suggest you check out John Mulaney's rendition of it during the recent Academy Governor's Awards. We won't give away too much, but suffice it to say that Pacino's story doesn't involve anything glamorous or artistically inspiring. Instead, it's about his Valium-induced confusion over the duration of the event and his desperate need to use the restroom.