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In a groundbreaking moment at the Oscars on Sunday night, Autumn Durald Arkapaw, the cinematographer for “Sinners,” made history by becoming the first woman and the first Black individual to win the award for Best Cinematography.
Arkapaw’s achievement is particularly noteworthy as she is only the third woman ever nominated in this category in the history of the Academy Awards. Additionally, she had already set a precedent by being the first woman of color to receive a nomination for this honor.
As Arkapaw walked onto the stage at the Dolby Theatre, she was met with resounding applause from the audience, celebrating her historic win.
During her acceptance speech, Arkapaw expressed heartfelt gratitude towards filmmaker Ryan Coogler, saying, “Whenever I thank Ryan, he responds with, ‘No, thank you. Thank you for believing in me and trusting me.’ That’s the kind of person I have the privilege of making films with. And he genuinely means it.”
Reflecting on her collaboration with Coogler, Arkapaw shared her belief that their partnership was meant to be.
“I feel like I had to meet him. This little girl that — their mother, who is over there, told them that they could do anything — had to meet Ryan,” she said.
Arkapaw then asked all of the women in the room to stand up with her.
“I really want all the women in the room to stand up, because I feel like I don’t get here without you guys,” Arkapaw continued. “I really, really, truly mean that. I have felt so much love from all of the women on this whole campaign.”
Coogler’s “Sinners” broke an Oscars record with 16 total nominations at the 98th Academy Awards. The film took home four Oscars.
Now that all the Academy Awards have been handed out, it’s time to party!
Watch “Live With Kelly and Mark: After the Oscars,” live from the Oscars stage at the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on Monday at 9 a.m.
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