The 2025 Oscars ceremony held on March 3 at the Dolby Theatre was marked by tributes to cinematic legends who have passed, igniting debate around the treatment of the late David Lynch during the event. Hosting the evening was comedian Conan O’Brien, who led the proceedings as Hollywood celebrated the achievements of various contributors to film.
The ceremonious ‘in memoriam’ segment, always one of the most heartfelt parts of the Academy Awards, commenced with poignant words from Morgan Freeman. Addressing the audience, he paid tribute to the recently deceased Gene Hackman, who was loved across the industry. Freeman recalled his time working alongside Hackman on films like “Unforgiven,” stating, “I had the pleasure of working alongside Gene... He was generous and was known for elev”.
Sadly, Hackman was found dead earlier last week at his home, alongside his wife Betsy Arakawa. His legacy as a two-time Oscar winner remains intact as fans and fellow filmmakers mourn his loss.
Among the many stars honored during the tribute were Maggie Smith, Shelley Duvall, and James Earl Jones, notable for their impact on cinema. The segment featured emotional music set to Mozart’s “Requiem” to encapsulate the gravity of loss felt within the Hollywood community.
Though among those commemorated was David Lynch, who died earlier this year from cardiac arrest at the age of 78, viewers expressed dissatisfaction over the brevity of his tribute. Stunned fans took to social media, vocalizing their outrage. "Not giving David Lynch something more substantial than a 2 second in memoriam clip - #Oscars2025 you best sleep with both eyes open," tweeted RuPaul’s Drag Race star Katya Zamolodchikova, highlighting the discontent felt by many.
Critics pointed out the stark disparity between the length of Lynch’s homage and those paid to other figures. Users noted, “Makes me sad seeing James Bond get this 10 minute segment but then David Lynch gets a 10 second clip... he deserved more than this,” reflecting on the contrasting honors bestowed. Others echoed, “David Lynch literally changed cinema and THAT’S ALL THEY'RE GIVING HIM?” demonstrating palpable frustration across platforms.
Despite this, as the audience continued to applaud the artistry of honored figures, Isabella Rossellini arrived at the ceremony donned in blue velvet, signifying her homage to Lynch's celebrated film “Blue Velvet.” Rossellini’s appearance was seen as both poignant and fitting, symbolizing her collaboration with Lynch on the iconic film and reinforcing the deep-rooted connections within the film community.
The backlash surrounding Lynch’s tribute has been significant, with many questioning the decisions made by the Academy. Following the ceremony, discussions erupted across social media platforms and within industry circles, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the contributions made by filmmakers like Lynch, who are acclaimed for shaping cinematic language and experiences.
He has been acknowledged as not just another director but as one who expanded the horizon of what film can be. The term ‘Lynchian’ has become synonymous with challenging narrative styles and surreal imagery, showcasing Lynch’s undeniable influence on both cinema and popular culture.
Participants within the industry have expressed their concern over the perceived neglect of Lynch’s legacy, especially when juxtaposed with franchises such as James Bond, which feature prominently even when not relevant to the year’s productions. The comparisons lead to broader conversations about the values embedded within awards ceremonies like the Oscars.
The segment brought together other notable names as well, including Gena Rowlands and Roger Corman, leading to memories shared from careers spanning decades. Conversations around the honors presented, especially as they relate to how such tributes are executed, showcase the continued dialogue within the industry surrounding recognition and lasting impressions left behind by influential figures.
The Oscars have always been about celebration—celebration of artistry, legacy, and the impact left behind by extraordinary visionaries. David Lynch’s absence is felt deeply, and the way his memory was honored this year raised questions about how the industry values contributions from such innovators. For many, it wasn’t enough.
The Academy's decisions point to the challenges of honoring all deserving figures within the framework of time constraints and viewership demands, but the reactions this year suggest it is imperative to reflect on who is being celebrated and how they are being recognized.
The sentiment within the film community supported calls for more comprehensive tributes to those whose legsacies have transformed the course of cinema. The event this year also debut new categories and charges to face, balancing traditional elements with modern expectations from audiences. Amidst all, the 97th Academy Awards still cherished the lives of cinema's finest, though some, like Lynch, deserved more.