**Oscars Class Photo: Highlights from a Star-Studded Gathering**

**The article delves into memorable interactions, standout fashion, and presences felt as the Academy Awards approach.**

On Tuesday evening, Oscar nominees came together in Los Angeles for a traditional "class photo," signaling the climax of this year's award season ahead of the Academy Awards set for March 2nd. The gathering allowed stars like Ariana Grande, Timothée Chalamet, and Demi Moore to socialize before the highly anticipated event. This year's photo took place later than usual due to the cancellation of the nominees luncheon stemming from the LA wildfires.

Here are 12 notable observations from the acclaimed class photo:

1. **Ariana and Cynthia's Special Bond**
Wearing vibrant smiles, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, both prominent in the spotlight, have captured hearts while promoting the adaptation of Wicked. They plan to perform a medley of songs from the film at the Oscars—a move promising similar buzz to last year's memorable performances.

2. **Fashion Forward with Cozy Styles**
Among the crowd was Maya Gnyp, producer of the nominated documentary I Am Ready, who sported an eye-catching colorful jumper that quickly caught the attention of fashion enthusiasts. Her film addresses the poignant story of death row inmate John Henry Ramirez.

3. **Front Row Honors**
Ariana and Cynthia were joined in the front row with other nominees like Zoe Saldaña and Mikey Madison, both of whom are significant contenders in their respective categories. Saldaña's track record hints at her taking home the award for best supporting actress.

4. **Last-Minute Attendance**
Celebrated director James Mangold arrived just in time for the photograph, earning cheers for his entrance. This year's nominations mark Mangold's first chance to take home an Oscar in the best director category.

5. **Joyful Celebrations from a Dedicated Team**
The creative crew behind Black Box Diaries brought a joyous spirit to the photo, demonstrating their camaraderie with linked hands—showcasing both enthusiasm for their film and unity among nominees.

6. **Superstars in the Background**
Several premier nominees, including Demi Moore, were situated in the back row—a tidal wave of star power dimmed just by their physical distance from the camera, indicative of their prominent roles in this year’s awards.

7. **A Pair Without Elton**
Songwriters Bernie Taupin and Brandi Carlile attended the event without Elton John, though they remain hopeful for his presence at the Oscars for their nominated track, Never Too Late, amid a shift in performance protocols.

8. **Timothée’s Subtle Presence**
Timothée Chalamet, fresh off a SAG Award win, seemed slightly detached as he posed. His nuanced posture spoke volumes about his current position in the awards race, as he opted not to engage as actively as some of his competitors.

9. **Leading Actor Ensemble**
The backdrop also included leading actors like Adrien Brody and Colman Domingo, each making strong cases for the best actor category amidst fierce competition.

10. **British Representation**
Notably present were British nominees like Ralph Fiennes, who sit poised to take part in awards lore, especially with the potential of Conclave securing top honors.

11. **Absences Noted**
The gathering unfortunately did not see all nominees in attendance, including Kieran Culkin, whose absence left a curious mark on the event—especially in light of ongoing controversies surrounding other nominees in Hollywood.

12. **Clarence's Unique Position**
Clarence Maclin, a former inmate turned nominee, waved away the absent-mindedness as he posed, symbolizing a powerful narrative in the best adapted screenplay category related to his compelling life story.

The class photo serves as a symbol of the deep connections forged in Hollywood, spotlighting both the glamour and the narratives behind this year’s Academy Awards.