Michael B Jordan’s Win & the “Bum Drum”: 2024 Critics Choice Awards Highlights

The 2026 Oscars delivered a night of high drama and unexpected moments, from Michael B. Jordan’s celebrated win to a curiously recurring orchestral bit dubbed the “bum drum.” While Jordan’s victory was a clear highlight, the ceremony wasn’t without its head-scratching instances, leaving viewers and critics alike dissecting the evening’s peaks, and valleys.

Jordan’s win for Best Actor was described as a “thrilling” moment by The New York Times, marking a significant achievement in his career. He triumphed over fellow nominees, including Wagner Moura, whose performance in the Brazilian thriller, currently nominated for Best International Feature Film, garnered considerable attention.

A Brazilian Thriller’s Unexpected Oscar Presence

The film itself, an offbeat political drama directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho, has become a dark horse contender in several categories. Set in 1970s Brazil under military dictatorship, the story follows an academic, Marcelo (played by Moura), who seeks refuge in his hometown of Recife only to find trouble follows him. The film distinguishes itself with a unique blend of tense drama and surreal humor, featuring, rather memorably, a severed leg that attacks people. Mendonça Filho, a former film critic, previously directed the acclaimed Aquarius (2016), and this nomination represents a major step forward for his career. The film is also up for Best Picture, competing against Sentimental Value in the International Film category. You can learn more about Kleber Mendonça Filho’s work here.

Jessie Buckley’s Triumph and the Night’s Other Wins

Michael B. Jordan wasn’t the only big winner of the night. Jessie Buckley took home the Best Actress award, adding to the emotional weight of the ceremony. MSN reports that both wins were particularly poignant, marking a high point for both actors. Details surrounding Buckley’s winning role are currently limited, but the award solidifies her position as a leading actress in contemporary cinema.

The “Bum Drum” and Other Curious Moments

Beyond the awards themselves, the ceremony featured several moments that sparked conversation. Perhaps the most perplexing was the repeated use of a special orchestral percussion instrument – playfully dubbed the “bum drum” – during a segment featuring Timothée Chalamet. According to the BBC, Chalamet laughed as Conan joked about his nude scenes in Marty Supreme, and the orchestra responded with the unusual musical accompaniment. The context suggests it was a lighthearted, if somewhat bizarre, tribute.

What the Wins Mean for Jordan and Buckley

For Michael B. Jordan, this Best Actor win represents a career high. He has steadily built a reputation as a versatile and compelling performer, with roles in films like Creed and Black Panther. An Oscar win elevates him to a new level of industry recognition and opens doors to even more challenging and prestigious projects. Buckley’s win is equally significant, confirming her status as a rising star with a remarkable range. Her previous work has demonstrated a willingness to tackle complex and unconventional roles, and this award is likely to attract even more compelling opportunities.

The International Film Category: A Growing Platform

The nomination of the Brazilian thriller highlights the increasing prominence of international cinema at the Oscars. The Best International Feature Film category provides a platform for films that might not otherwise receive widespread recognition in the United States. Mendonça Filho’s film, with its unique blend of political commentary and surreal humor, exemplifies the diversity and creativity of global filmmaking. The competition with Sentimental Value suggests a strong field of contenders, and the outcome will likely spark further discussion about the role of international cinema in the broader film landscape.

Looking Ahead: Post-Oscars Momentum

Following the awards ceremony, both Jordan and Buckley are expected to see increased demand for their talents. Jordan is reportedly considering several new projects, including a potential directorial debut. Buckley is also said to be in talks for a number of high-profile roles. The Brazilian thriller, regardless of its ultimate Oscar success, is likely to gain wider distribution and recognition thanks to the nomination. The “bum drum” incident, while initially perplexing, has already become a viral moment, demonstrating the power of the Oscars to generate buzz and conversation. The long-term impact of these moments will unfold in the coming months, but the 2026 Oscars have undoubtedly left a lasting impression on the film industry and its audiences.