1. 'PARASITE' MAKES HISTORY AS FOUR TIME OSCAR WINNER: Becoming the little movie that could, Parasite shattered both records and expectations at the 92nd Oscars, winning best picture and director awards, as well as two other trophies. The South Korean film triumphed over widely predicted 1917 for the top prize, while director Bong Joon Ho beat out industry giants. Acting trophies were awarded as expected during the hostless ceremony while the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences also announced December 14 as the opening date for its museum. Los Angeles Times: “In recent years, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has brought in hundreds of new members from overseas as part of its ongoing effort to diversify its historically white-male-dominated membership. In naming Parasite both best picture and best international feature, the organization seemed to be embracing the chance to show that it has become less parochial and more open-minded than it may have been in decades past.”
2. ART BASEL HONG KONG CANCELED DUE TO CORONAVIRUS: The outbreak of Coronavirus continues to plague the event industry, and its latest victim is Art Basel Hong Kong, which has been canceled. The show was slated to be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center March 17-21, and was expected to feature top galleries from Asia and other destinations. The New York Times: “‘The decision to cancel Art Basel Hong Kong was an extremely difficult one for us,’ said Bernd Stadlwieser, chief executive of MCH Group, the Swiss-based company behind the fair. ‘We explored every other possible option, including postponing the fair, and gathered advice and perspectives from many gallerists, partners, and external experts. However, today, we have no other option but to cancel the fair.’”
3. KOBE BRYANT MEMORIAL PLANS UNVEILED: Plans for a public memorial honoring Kobe Bryant have been revealed. The event will take place February 24 at the Staples Center. Los Angeles Times: "Planning for the massive event is underway. Staples Center has previously hosted memorials for artists Michael Jackson and Nipsey Hussle. Information about timing and tickets for the ceremony was not immediately available. With limited seating, however, entry is expected to be severely restricted, sources say. The date was selected after discussions with Bryant’s widow, Vanessa, the Lakers organization, and Staples. One source said there will be no procession, and the event will conclude in time to allow a previously scheduled Clippers game against the Memphis Grizzlies to go forward in the evening."