The 2025 AACTA Awards, the pinnacle event celebrating Australian film and television, took place on February 7 at the Home of the Arts (HOTA) on the Gold Coast, with film and acting luminaries gathering to witness the occasion.
This year’s ceremony, hosted by Oscar-winning actor Russell Crowe, marked the first time the AACTA Awards were held outside of Sydney for three consecutive years. The awards have become synonymous with Australian cinematic achievements, often dubbed the "Aussie Oscars." Crowe, alongside pop superstar Robbie Williams, lit up the event. Williams performed his beloved hit song "Angels" and expressed his pride over his biopic, Better Man, which received a staggering 16 nominations, the most for any film this year.
Williams stated, “I’m incredibly honoured to be attending and performing at the AACTA Awards on the Gold Coast...For this movie to be embraced by the AACTA membership, with record-breaking nominations, is very special.”
Through the night, the spotlight was on Better Man, which earned nine awards, solidifying its place as the standout film of the night, including the prestigious titles of Best Film, Best Director for Michael Gracey, and Best Lead Actor, awarded to Jonno Davies. Of the film's success, Gracey said, "This would not have been possible without my talented team and the belief from my fellow filmmakers."
Meanwhile, the Netflix original series Boy Swallows Universe achieved tremendous success, winning 12 AACTA awards, including Best Drama Series and Best Lead Actress awarded to Phoebe Tonkin, who captivated audiences not just on screen but through her fashion choices on the red carpet. She wore a stunning sheer dress from Chanel's Haute Couture collection, which garnered much appreciation.
The array of winners is impressive, showcasing the diversity of Australian talent across genres. Other notables include:
- Best Indie Film: Birdeater
- Best Narrative Comedy Series: Fisk
- Best Stand-Up Special: Anne Edmonds for "Why Is My Bag All Wet?"
- Best Comedy Entertainment Program: Hard Quiz
- Best Factual Entertainment Program: Muster Dogs
- Best Documentary or Factual Program: Miriam Margolyes Impossibly Australian
The event also highlighted the combined accolades of television categories, signifying the upward trend of local productions gaining national recognition. The presence of familiar figures such as must-watch performances by Paul Kelly, who received AACTA's inaugural Outstanding Contribution award, made the evening even more special.
Kelly remarked on the interplay between music and film: "When music and pictures join up just right, they both get amplified. It’s been my honour to be part of their union."
Another fashionable standout on the red carpet was Guy Pearce, who embraced the occasion with elegance, sporting a sharp navy suit. He shared the limelight with other top stars like Chloé Hayden, Essie Davis, and Anna Torv, all of whom brought their unique flair to the proceedings. From floral gowns to fitted suits, the fashion proved as riveting as the awards themselves.
The night concluded with cheers for the winners, each stepping forward to express their gratitude for the platform the AACTA Awards provided. Collectively, the awards not only recognize individual talent but also celebrate the storytelling ability showcased through Australian film and television. Better Man and Boy Swallows Universe reflect the depth and breadth of narratives blossoming within Australia, setting the stage for future works to follow suit.
For those who missed the festivities, the ceremony will be available for streaming on 10Play, allowing viewers to catch every thrilling moment and emotional speech.
With such talent on display this year, the AACTA Awards continue to assert their importance within the industry, propelling both established and new artists to the forefront of the Australian entertainment scene.