How is the Oscar trophy made?

Winning an Oscar is a dream for everyone in the film industry. But questions over how this golden statuette is made may interest many readers.

Well, first, a cursory look into its design shows a knight holding a sword while standing on a reel of film. Cedric Gibbons, MGM art director, while L.A. artist George Stanley sculpted it.

Despite its shiny golden look, gold is never fully used to make the statuette. In fact, the materials over time changed to produce the trophy.

Initially, gold-plated bronze was used for the Academy Awards when they began in 1922. Then, World War II happened.

A shortage of metals at the time forced the Academy to opt for painted plaster. Later, in 1982, Britannia metal was introduced. 

But three decades later, the organization decided to return to where it had started: gold-plated bronze.

Below is a clip of how an Oscar statue is made.

Do Oscar voters have to watch all the films to vote?

In short, no.

However, voters in the second round of nominations are required to watch each shortlisted film for categories such as Best Animated Short Film, Best International Feature Film, and Best Live Action Short Film.

The 98th Academy Awards will take place on March 15.