VIDEO : Controversial 'Green Book' Wins Best Picture

(CNN)The chemistry between Mahershala Ali and Viggo Mortensen in "Green Book" was apparently enough to help Academy voters forget the controversies that have plagued the film during its quest for Oscars gold. On Sunday, the film, inspired by the true story of a celebrated pianist's friendship with his driver, was awarded best picture. In the 1962-set film, Ali plays musician Dr. Donald Shirley and Mortensen portrays his rough-around-the-edges driver and bodyguard, Tony Vallelonga. The "green book" refers to the guide that told black motorists of hotels that would accept them, while the film derives its hook from the bond that formed between the men.