2014 Oscars: Ellen DeGeneres jokes about Liza Minnelli, Jennifer Lawrence falling in opening
While there are typically a number of big moments every time the Oscars come on the air, there is one that we know many still look forward to above all others: The opening. This is the chance for the show to do something that is either funny or imaginative, and look at everything that transpired in the world of film over the past year.
Ellen’s opening here was much more simplified than the ones that we’ve seen in recent years. Rather than showing some sort of elaborate videos or anything that had grand production value, Ellen just came out and told jokes. It almost seemed as though she really wanted to show everyone that she is still a great comedienne, despite her show being somewhat formulaic and silly at times.
In the end, this was a pretty funny introduction. She had a great joke about a “Liza Minnelli impersonator” who was actually Liza Minnelli, and went on a big tear about Jennifer Lawrence falling. Trust us; by the time we are near the end of this next entertainment news cycle, you will be exhausted of stories about Jennifer falling.
While Ellen never reached Ricky Gervais – Golden Globes levels of hilarity, we give her a ton of credit for being bold and not over-thinking something that is in the end very easy to over-think. If we were to grade this opening, we’d give it a solid B+.
What do you think about Ellen’s opening for the Oscars? Be sure to share your thoughts below!
Jo Dyan Devere
March 3, 2014 @ 1:59 am
Oh…I love Ellen but it felt a little forced… And I dare say… A little mean spirited which is not what I expect from her! I think the Liza joke set an interesting tone. No matter how hideous Liza may look… She is still Hollywood royalty. I thought it was a very mean joke and makes me wonder what Ellen’s motivation was behind this? It seemed after this the audience was unsure what to expect from her!
notable78ts
March 3, 2014 @ 2:18 am
I completely agree with Jo. The Liza joke was harsh and even though I hardly count myself a Liza-sympathizer, I was in that moment. Part of what makes Ellen the superstar she is is that she’s managed to make a career out of being funny without it being at other’s expense. Disappointing to say the least.
MPoss
March 3, 2014 @ 7:36 pm
Totally agree about Ellen’s mean spirited remark about Liza… Ellen was interviewed by Robin from Good Morning America the day before and told Robin that she will be tasteful and not be disrespectful to the stars that will be attending and goes on and on about how she upholds The Academy Awards with high respect and esteem… then does the show the complete opposite of what she had previously told Robin. Two faced Ellen. I always felt that Ellen has this weird disturbing edge about her… Can’t quite pinpoint what exactly it is.. but I find her persona quite vexed and disturbing.