Other media outlets received the broadcast more positively . Film critic Roger Ebert noted that Rock " opened on a high-energy quick-talking note " He also added , " Chris Rock hit a home run with his opening monologue , which was surprisingly pointed , topical , and not shy of controversy . " Television critic Frazier Moore commented that Rock 's performance was a " needed pick-me-up , presiding over the broadcast with saucy finesse . " He added , " In sum , the broadcast felt brisk , though not rushed . It felt modern and refreshingly free of chronic self-importance . " Brian Lowry of '' Variety '' gave an average review of Rock but remarked , " For all the hand-wringing about the awards descending into the muck , the 77th Academy Awards proved a classy affair , with precious little red meat to satiate Hollywood bashers . " The American telecast on ABC drew an average of 42.14 million people over its length , which was a 3 % decrease from the previous year 's ceremony . The show also drew lower Nielsen ratings compared to the two previous ceremonies with 25.4 of households watching over a 38 share . It also drew a lower 18 – 49 demo rating with a 15.1 rating over a 34 share among viewers in that demographic
previous year 's ceremony
76th Academy Awards
77th Academy Awards