“There’s an international community of filmmakers dedicated to telling the truth, oftentimes at great risk to make films that teach us, that call out injustice, that inspire us to take action,” said Jimmy Kimmel while presenting the award for Best Documentary Feature. “And there are also documentaries where you walk around the White House trying on shoes.”
For those unfamiliar, the documentary referenced by Kimmel is “Melania” (2026). It is a deeply unserious exploration of First Lady Melania Trump’s day-to-day life, including such matters as wardrobe fittings and event planning.
Kimmel mentioned this documentary alongside the 2026 Best Documentary Feature nominees: “The Perfect Neighbor,” “Mr. Nobody Against Putin,” “The Alabama Solution,” “Come See Me in the Good Light” and “Cutting Through Rocks.”
These documentary films explore themes of racially targeted prejudice and violence, the invasion of Ukraine and male incarceration in the United States.
So Kimmel begged the question: alongside these powerful documentaries, who wants to see Melania trying on shoes?
The answer is no one.
The audiences appear to agree. On the public film rating platform Letterboxd, “Melania” holds a score of 1.1 out of 5. The Best Documentary Feature nominees range between 3.7 and 4.2.
Kimmel also made comments about the lack of freedom of speech in today’s America.
“As you know, there are some countries whose leaders don’t support free speech,” said Kimmel. “I’m not at liberty to say which. Let’s just leave it at North Korea and CBS.”
This line referenced the suspension Kimmel faced from CBS in September 2025 after making jokes on behalf of the MAGA movement.
But Kimmel wasn’t the only person to speak out that night. Host Conan O’Brien offered his own take on the state of America.
Referencing Kid Rock’s widely criticized alternate “All-American” halftime show earlier this year, O’Brien said, “I should warn you, tonight could get political. And if that makes you uncomfortable, there’s an alternate Oscars hosted by Kid Rock at the Dave & Buster’s down the street.”
O’Brien and Kimmel’s jokes served for more than just laughs. They brought awareness to these issues on live television which drew about 18 million viewers.
But the most powerful voice of the night was Javier Bardem.
While announcing the winner for Best International Feature, Bardem approached the stage with just a few words: “No to war and free Palestine.”
Bardem was the only speaker of the night to make a direct political statement not hidden behind humor, and it was powerful. Applause and cheers filled the room.
Using this opportunity to speak out against war was not only courageous, but also influential. Speaking out against war has been a hot topic for many actors, some of whom have been shunned from Hollywood. People of status, including Bardem — an A-list actor most commonly known for his role in “No Country for Old Men” — are typically more successful in moving the masses. Bardem has gained respect from many fans for his talented performances and outspoken ways.
A lot of people today are not tuned into the news, but some were watching the Oscars. Bardem seized this opportunity as a public figure to speak out and bring awareness to a broader audience.
The 98th Academy Awards ceremony was not only a night of film celebration, but also an opportunity for the public to reflect on current global issues.
