The Academy Award, also known as the Oscar, is a prestigious award presented annually by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS). It recognizes excellence in cinematic achievements, including acting, directing, writing, and technical fields. The awards are given in various categories, with the most notable being Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor/Actress. The first Academy Awards ceremony took place in 1929, and since then, it has become one of the most celebrated events in the film industry. Winners receive a golden statuette, symbolizing their outstanding contributions to cinema. The awards are typically presented in a televised ceremony, attracting millions of viewers worldwide.