This was Hollywood history in the making.
The movie '12 years a slave' becomes the first in the entire 86-year history of the Oscars from a black director to scoop the best picture award.
It picked up two more honours for best supporting actress and best adapted screenplay.
Director Steve McQueen paid tribute to all those involved.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) STEVE MCQUEEN, DIRECTOR OF '12 YEARS A SLAVE' SAYING:
"To my wonderful cast and crew, plan B Brad Pitt who, without him, this film would just not have been made."
Space thriller 'Gravity' pulled in the most Oscars of the night, seven in all, including best director for Alfonso Cuaron.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) ALFONSO CUARON, DIRECTOR OF 'GRAVITY' SAYING:
"What really sucks is that, while for a lot of people that transformation was wisdom, for me it was just the colour of my hair."
Cate Blanchett walked away with best actress for 'Blue Jasmine'
(SOUNDBITE) (English) CATE BLANCHETT
