John KampfeHome, In the News, New Jersey Oscars

While La La Land initially — and mistakenly — may have been declared the winner of Best Picture at the Academy Awards last night, the film’s New Jersey-raised director Damien Chazelle indeed did win an Oscar as Best Director.

Chazelle, who grew up in Princeton and graduated from Princeton High School, is the second New Jerseyan in as many years to win the Best Director honor. New Providence native Tom McCarthy won last year for Spotlight.

In a humble acceptance speech, Chazelle paid tribute to the four other directors he beat out for the Oscar nod: Mel Gibson (Hacksaw Ridge); Barry Jenkins (Moonlight); Kenneth Lonergan (Manchester by the Sea): and Denis Villeneuve (Arrival).

“I just want to first thank my fellow nominees,” Chazelle said. “I was absolutely honored and floored to be in your company this year. So, Barry, Kenny, Mel, Denis— like, my eyes are searching, but I know you’re here somewhere. Just thank you for what incredible filmmakers you are and for inspiring me with your work every day.”

It was Chazelle’s first Oscars win. He also walked away with the Best Director Golden Globes Award for his work on La La Land. The movie took home a total of six Oscars including Best Actress (Emma Stone), Cinematography, Music Original Score, Music Original Song (City of Stars) and Production Design.