A study has shown women are significantly less likely to have opportunities in film than men. And they are paid less in all walks of life, not just acting.
Patricia Arquette, a Hollywood actress who gave a rousing acceptance speech when she won best supporting actress at last year's Oscars, says there is a lot more work to be done for gender equality within the US.
As the red carpet is rolled out for this year's awards, the fight for equal pay and opportunities has been stepped up.
Al Jazeera's Phil Lavelle reports from Beverly Hills, California.
