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

Nominees mingled at a special gathering before the upcoming Oscars, sharing moments of camaraderie and high expectations for the ceremony.

On Tuesday, nominees for this year’s Academy Awards gathered in Los Angeles for a class photo event, typically held earlier in the awards season. This year, however, the traditional nominees luncheon was cancelled due to the catastrophic wildfires in Los Angeles. The star-studded affair highlighted some interesting moments and interactions among the celebrated attendees.

1. **Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo Steal the Spotlight**
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, who have bonded over promoting the film adaptation of *Wicked*, were front and center in the class photo. Erivo’s playful shout of "Everyone say 'Oscar nominee!'" added lightheartedness before the photo was captured. The pair is slated to perform a medley at the Oscars ceremony, hoping to recapture the viral energy of last year's award show performances.

2. **Fashion Highlights**
Maya Gnyp, producer of the nominated documentary *I Am Ready, Warden*, showcased a vibrant jumper that caught the attention of many attendees. This colorful ensemble reminded attendees that even as temperatures rise, striking fashion statements remain relevant.

3. **The Competitive Front Row**
The front row boasted an impressive lineup including Zoe Saldaña and Mikey Madison. Saldaña is a strong contender for Best Supporting Actress, while Madison is competing in a crowded leading actress category alongside Demi Moore.

4. **Director James Mangold's Timely Arrival**
Celebrated director James Mangold almost missed the photo, arriving just in time to an affectionate reception by fellow nominees. His nomination this year for Best Director highlights the evolving landscape of the film industry.

5. **Team Spirit from *Black Box Diaries***
Amidst few playful gestures, the team from *Black Box Diaries* stood out by joining hands, celebrating their film's nomination, which focuses on a sensitive social issue in Japan.

6. **A Blend of Veteran and Newer Stars**
In an interesting turn, acclaimed stars such as Demi Moore and Edward Norton found themselves seated in the back row of the class photo, where they are surrounded by the excitement of newer entrants into the awards race.

7. **A Historic Absence**
While songwriters Bernie Taupin and Brandi Carlile attended, fellow collaborator Elton John was missing from the event. His presence is highly anticipated for the Oscars ceremony despite the change in format regarding performances.

8. **Timothée Chalamet’s Unique Posture**
Nominee Timothée Chalamet, fresh off a surprise SAG Awards win, appeared thoughtful as he took an aisle seat during the photo, embodying the delicate balance of competition and camaraderie.

9. **Impressive Back Row Talent**
The back row featured leading actors like Adrien Brody and Colman Domingo, all vying for the Best Actor award. Their noteworthy performances have contributed to a fierce competition.

10. **Notable British Presence**
British nominees like Ralph Fiennes were also present, adding a diverse international flair to the group of nominees. Fiennes' participation adds to his impressive legacy in Hollywood as he continues to break records with his nominations.

11. **Absent Faces**
While many stars graced the class photo, some nominees, including Kieran Culkin, were notably absent, raising eyebrows and speculation about the implications for their respective films.

12. **Clarence Maclin’s Special Recognition**
Clarence Maclin's presence, though reduced, signals a recognition of his impactful narrative background, as he shares his personal story through his nomination.

As the Academy Awards approach, the excitement grows, and with these outstanding nominees, this year promises a memorable ceremony.