Host John Stewart arranged that Irglová be brought back on stage, where she said, "This is such a big deal, not only for us, but for all other independent musicians and artists that spend most of their time struggling." She said the fact that she and Hansard were standing on that stage proves that "no matter how far out your dreams are, it's possible."

Her acceptance speech was considered one of the best of the awards ceremony. She concluded: "This song was written from a perspective of hope, and hope at the end of the day connects us all, no matter how different we are. And so thank you so much, who helped us along the way. Thank you."

In his remarks, Glen Hansard described the making of the film.

"We made this film two years ago," he said. "We shot on two Handicams. It took us three weeks to make. We made it for a hundred grand. We never thought we would come into a room like this and be in front of you people. It's been an amazing thing. Thanks for taking this film seriously, all of you. It means a lot to us. Thanks to the Academy, thanks to all the people who've helped us, they know who they are, we don't need to say them. This is amazing. Make art. Make art. Thanks."