The BBC News website's entertainment editor Jackie Finlay is reporting from Hollywood - the build-up included a trip to the venue for the Vanity Fair party.

The hours before the Academy Awards saw meticulous final preparations, including a touch of paint for the giant Oscars.

Rehearsals took place with extras standing in for famous faces.

Fans and media arrived at the red carpet on Hollywood Boulevard hours before the awards.

Organisers ensured the red carpet was in immaculate condition in preparation for the stars' arrival.