Hollywood is rolling out the red carpet for the 98th Academy Awards. While the night promises the usual glamour and star power, organizers say this year\u2019s show will also come with heightened security measures.<\/p>\n
The ceremony will take place on Sunday, March 15th, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, where producers say they are working closely with the LAPD and the FBI to ensure the safety of attendees, fans, and the thousands of people expected to line the streets around Hollywood Boulevard.<\/p>\n
Oscar executive producer Raj Kapoor says safety planning is a routine part of producing a global event of this scale. But organizers are paying extra attention this year after reports of a potential drone threat connected to escalating tensions overseas. Officials stress there is no credible threat to the ceremony, but security teams are taking precautions to keep the event running smoothly.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe want everyone who comes to the show \u2014 and even the fans standing outside the barricades \u2014 to feel safe and welcome,\u201d Kapoor said during a press briefing.<\/p>\n
The Race for the Oscars<\/p>\n
Security aside, the spotlight<\/a> is firmly on this year\u2019s nominees, with \u201cSinners\u201d emerging as the film to beat after leading the nominations. The drama has been a favorite with critics and could dominate major categories Sunday night.<\/p>\n Other strong contenders include \u201cOne Battle After Another,\u201d \u201cFrankenstein,\u201d \u201cMarty Supreme,\u201d and \u201cSentimental Value,\u201d all of which have generated serious awards-season buzz.<\/p>\n Industry analysts say the race for Best Picture could come down to “Sinners” and “One Battle After Another,” while several acting categories remain wide open.<\/p>\n Predicted Winners<\/p>\n Awards watchers are predicting a big night for \u201cSinners,\u201d which many expect to take home Best Picture and possibly additional wins in directing and acting categories.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, \u201cFrankenstein\u201d is widely considered a technical powerhouse and could rack up wins in craft categories such as production design, visual effects, and costume design.<\/p>\n Films like \u201cSentimental Value\u201d and \u201cMarty Supreme\u201d are also expected to perform well in writing and supporting acting categories.<\/p>\n Hollywood\u2019s Biggest Night<\/p>\n The Oscars remain one of the most-watched entertainment events in the world \u2014 and a major moment for Los Angeles tourism and the entertainment industry.<\/p>\n Fans are already lining up around Hollywood ahead of Sunday\u2019s show, hoping to catch a glimpse of stars arriving on the red carpet.<\/p>\n The 98th Academy Awards will air live Sunday night on ABC and will also stream on Hulu, bringing Hollywood\u2019s biggest celebration of film to audiences around the world.<\/p>\n And if all goes according to plan, the night will deliver exactly what the Oscars promise every year: a little drama, a lot of glamour, and maybe a few surprises when those envelopes are opened.<\/p>\n Watch our live coverage of the Oscars on the KFI AM 640 Instagram<\/a> page and make sure you listen to Gary and Shannon<\/a> Monday morning at 9 am for a recap of the big night!<\/p>\n