The 97th Annual Academy Awards took place on March 2, 2025, at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, celebrating the stellar achievements of filmmakers and actors from around the world. Comedian Conan O’Brien made his debut as host, injecting humor and warmth throughout the ceremony.
This year's event was particularly noteworthy, considering it recognized 23 competitive categories, shining a light on both mainstream and independent films. Leading the nominations was the film "Emilia Pérez," which garnered 13 nominations. Close behind were "The Brutalist" and "Wicked," each with 10 nominations.
The night culminated with the announcement of significant winners. The prestigious award for Best Picture was awarded to "Anora," directed by Sean Baker, who also took home the Best Director award. "I’m so grateful for this award; it means so much to me," Baker said during his acceptance speech, highlighting the film's unique narrative and visual storytelling.
Mikey Madison, who captivated audiences with her role in "Anora," won the Best Actress award. Realizing her dream, she said, "Every moment was worth it, and I’m thankful to my amazing team" as she thanked her cast and crew. Madison's triumph is particularly significant, as it marks her first Oscar win and recognizes her remarkable talent.
On the male front, Adrien Brody won Best Actor for his performance in "The Brutalist." Brody's commitment to his role has been widely praised, securing his place as one of the most versatile actors of his generation. He expressed immense gratitude toward his team during his speech.
Supporting performances were also recognized, with Zoe Saldaña taking home the award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Emilia Pérez." Saldaña, who has long been lauded for her acting, delivered a heartfelt speech filled with emotion. "This award is about representation and visibility for everyone who's been marginalized," she expressed, echoing the sentiments of many industry watchers. "I’m proud to be the first person of Dominican descent to win this award, and I hope I’m not the only one."
The Best Supporting Actor award went to Kieran Culkin for his role in "A Real Pain," showcasing his ability to captivate audiences even with limited screen time. Culkin's performance has been noted for its depth and authenticity, adding another layer to the film's complex narrative.
Additional noteworthy awards include Best Animated Feature, won by "Flow," marking its artistic animation style and storytelling. The winner for Best Documentary Feature was "No Other Land," recognized for its compelling narrative and real-world impact. These categories, along with others like Best Sound and Best Visual Effects, highlighted the diverse talents within the film industry.
The presence of films highlighting stories of underrepresented communities made for meaningful discussion throughout the evening. The Academy's growing recognition of inclusive storytelling was apparent, possibly signaling shifts within Hollywood as it seeks to reflect the world more authentically.
Overall, the 2025 Oscars not only celebrated cinematic excellence but also provided moments of heartfelt reflection and joy, reminding audiences of the power of film to influence culture and create dialogue. With significant wins for breakout films and performances, this year's ceremony reaffirmed an optimistic future for the industry, one where diversity and representation continue to move to the forefront.
Attendees left feeling inspired, ready to push boundaries and challenge conventions. The event served as both celebration and reminder of the industry's growth, urging it to continue paving the way for stories often left untold.