(CBS) In what many observers are calling a stunning upset, the racially charged drama "Crash" grabbed the Academy Award for best picture from the favored "Brokeback Mountain." But, as The Early Show entertainment contributor and People Magazine Senior Editor Jess Cagle reports, the favorites in the acting categories all took home statuettes.

More than half the actors nominated for the awards-fest had never been up for an Oscar before. All four acting winners were first-time nominees, and all were expected to win.

George Clooney was the first winner of the night, copping best supporting actor for "Syriana." He spoke with Harry Smith as the night's celebrations were just beginning.

"It's a tough year for movies," Clooney observed later to co-anchor Harry Smith, "so I was really surprised. It's hard to start it out, first one out of the gate. That's a lot of pressure!"

Frontrunner Phillip Seymour Hoffman was named best actor for playing the real-life title character in "Capote."

Oscars host Jon Stewart joked, " 'Capote' showed America that not all gay people are virile cowboys (referring to 'Brokeback Mountain') — some are actually effete New York intellectuals."

Stewart himself was another first-timer, as host of Hollywood's biggest night. He made the most of the night's more unpredictable moments, including the victory of "Three 6 Mafia'" for best song for "It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp."

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