In Pursuit of Cinematic Excellence

The first anniversary gala of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures reinforces the filmmaking industry’s importance as a cultural force in the world. On an exclusive invitation by Rolex, the institution’s founding supporter, Prestige travels to Los Angeles to discover the museum's role in advancing the understanding, celebration and preservation of cinema.

The star-studded night of the second annual Academy Museum Gala in Los Angeles on Oct 15 wasn't just lit by the constellations overhead, but by the presence of a dazzling line-up of movers and shakers from the international filmmaking industry. As the "cream carpet" and cocktail reception at Academy Museum of Motion Pictures began to throng with guests, it was surprising to see such representation at what's essentially a nexus of Hollywood powerbroking.

Mingling next to our media group were Rolex Testimonees Jenson Button, British motorsport champion, and Vijay Amritraj, Indian tennis legend turned TV commentator. Directors Spike Lee and Ron Howard, together with Bill Kramer, CEO of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, were spotted deep in conversation. A glowing Lily Collins floated through the crowd, which included an impressive Korean contingent.

The evening, which took place at the 9,000sqft Dolby Family Terrace, a glass-domed rooftop space in the Museum's Sphere building, was an elegant affair that honoured the toast of "La La Land" for their contributions to film. Presented by Rolex, the fete was co-chaired by Academy Awardwinning actress and Academy Museum supporter Halle Berry, Academy Museum trustee and producer Jason Blum, Academy Museum trustee and screenwriter-director-producer Ryan Murphy, and Academy Award-winning actress Lupita Nyong'o.

For her significant global cultural impact, Julia Roberts received The Icon Award presented by George Clooney, her co-star in the just-released movie "Ticket to Paradise".

British director Steve McQueen, best known for "12 Years a Slave", was lauded with The Vantage Award in recognition for his work in contextualising and challenging dominant narratives around cinema. The Visionary Award was accorded to British actress Tilda Swinton, whose extensive oeuvre has advanced the art of cinema.