Isabelle Huppert is one of the biggest international performers there is, with more than four decades of film work in both English and French languages. After starring in many critical hits (like The Piano Teacher), she flirted with Oscar in 2016 with a nomination (and major Golden Globe upset win) for Elle. Alas, she went home empty-handed — and she really could have won over Emma Stone in La La Land), but her currency on the would stage increased exponentially.

This article is part of a special year-long series of anecdotes, reflections and thoughts about the Academy Awards.