At the 2025 Oscars, Ben Stiller delivered a humorous moment that highlighted the importance of production design in film, especially during live TV events. Stiller’s playful tribute to this category emphasized how production design plays a vital role in shaping the viewer’s experience. Whether you’re watching at home or in the theater, the visual elements created by production designers set the tone and atmosphere of a film, directly influencing how the audience connects with the story.

The importance of production design was further underscored when host Conan O’Brien acknowledged that sometimes things going wrong can actually make for the best comedy moments. “I’m someone who hopes that things sometimes go a little off the rails because that’s where the real memorable moments happen,” O’Brien said, preparing the audience for any potential mishaps. His remarks set the stage for a tribute to the artists who work behind the scenes to create the visual world we see on screen. Production designers are responsible for transforming a screenplay into a visual experience, with meticulous planning and attention to detail. Their work includes everything from creating mood boards to designing entire sets that help bring a story to life.

The work of production designers is often invisible but incredibly important. Even the smallest mistake can risk losing the audience’s trust and distracting from the performances. The intricacy of their work lies in the combination of art and architecture, with designers relying heavily on color theory and their knowledge of structures to create the perfect atmosphere for a film. For a production designer, every detail is considered to make sure the vision of the script is reflected on screen.

While the meticulous work of production designers is usually appreciated when everything goes right, a mistake during a live broadcast, such as at the Oscars, can bring attention to how essential their role is. Thankfully, any potential issues for Ben Stiller during the presentation were brief, allowing the focus to return to the impressive skill of the production designers in the industry.

As the Oscars proceeded, the nominees for Best Production Design were announced. The films recognized in this category demonstrated the range of creativity and technical expertise involved in this often underappreciated aspect of filmmaking. The work of production designers is often the invisible force that elevates a movie, subtly guiding the viewer’s emotional journey. It’s through their careful planning and expertise that the settings for these stories come to life, with every element carefully chosen to support the director’s vision.

In a field where the slightest miscalculation can have a significant impact, production designers understand that their work must not only be visually compelling but also practical. It’s a balance of artistry and functionality, creating a world that feels real and authentic, even when the action on screen is fictional. This year’s nominees for production design demonstrated that, while perfection is always the goal, it’s the artistry behind every choice that truly matters in creating a memorable and immersive cinematic experience.

Despite the occasional hiccup during live broadcasts, the celebration of production design at the Oscars was a reminder that behind every great movie is a team of talented individuals who work tirelessly to make sure the visuals match the story, ensuring that the audience is transported into another world.