Ahead of Hollywood’s biggest night, eight Oscar nominees who delivered unforgettable performances this year brought the glamour and excitement to PEOPLE’s annual Oscar portfolio

Best Supporting Actress nominee Angela Bassett said her nomination for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever reminded her to “never give up and run after your passion. Maybe one day, something as wonderful as this occurs.”

The actress earned her first Oscar nomination in 1995 for playing Tina Turner in What’s Love Got to Do With It. With the ocean behind her and the sun shining brightly, Bassett posed for the portfolio at El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara on Feb. 9. She said to play matriarch Queen Ramonda she drew from her own experience as a mother: “You’re always thinking of them – wanting the best for your kids.”

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