(CNN) The chemistry between Mahershala Ali and Viggo Mortensen in "Green Book" was apparently enough to help Academy voters forget the controversies that have plagued the film during its quest for Oscars gold.

On Sunday, the film, inspired by the true story of a celebrated pianist's friendship with his driver, was awarded best picture

It also won best original screenplay and Ali won best actor in a supporting role.

"The whole story is about love," Peter Farrelly said during the acceptance speech.

In the 1962-set film, Ali plays musician Dr. Donald Shirley and Mortensen portrays his rough-around-the-edges driver and bodyguard, Tony Vallelonga.

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