Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay (Everything Everywhere All At Once)

Lore & Background

In the vast tapestry of cinematic history, the screenplay for 'Everything Everywhere All At Once' is regarded as a singular artifact. It describes a universe where every choice creates a new reality, yet the core narrative remains anchored in the emotional truth of a struggling laundromat owner. The script's genius lies in its ability to balance absurdity—such as hot dogs with fingers—with deep philosophical inquiries about nihilism and kindness.

The journey to this accolade was not immediate; it required a daring leap of faith by A24 to support such an unconventional vision. The screenplay served as the blueprint for a film that resonated globally, suggesting that even in a fractured multiverse, the human connection remains the most powerful force. This award cemented the script's legacy as a modern classic, inspiring future storytellers to embrace complexity and risk.

For fans of the A24 canon, this win represents the triumph of the 'weird' over the safe. It validated the specific brand of surrealism that defines the studio's most celebrated works, proving that stories about ordinary people facing extraordinary cosmic horrors can capture the world's imagination.

In Their Own Story

The ink on the final page seemed to shimmer with a faint, multiverse energy as Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert held the golden statuette. In this quiet moment of triumph, the chaotic noise of the hot dog fingers and the vacuum of space faded away. They looked at each other, not just as writers who had won an award, but as travelers who had successfully navigated every possible timeline to arrive at this singular point of joy. The script was no longer just words on a page; it was a living map that had guided millions through their own existential crises.

Reader's Guide

The 95th Academy Awards, held in March 2023, marked the historic victory for 'Everything Everywhere All At Once.' Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert accepted the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay, joining a prestigious list of writers who have shaped cinema history.

During their acceptance speech, the duo emphasized the importance of collaboration and the unique support they received from A24. They thanked their cast and crew, highlighting how the entire production team contributed to bringing their wild vision to life. The win was particularly significant as it was their first Academy Award recognition after years of cult following.

This accolade completed a near-sweep for the film, which also won Best Picture, Director, and Acting categories. The screenplay's success demonstrated that originality could be rewarded on the biggest stage, encouraging studios to take risks on unconventional stories.

Did You Know?

• The Daniels wrote the script over several years, refining it through various drafts before A24 came on board.
• This win made 'Everything Everywhere All At Once' one of the most awarded films in Oscar history for a single ceremony.
• The screenplay was praised for its ability to blend martial arts action with deep emotional family drama seamlessly.