The 97th Oscars ceremony took place on March 2, 2025, at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, showcasing the best cinematic achievements of the past year. What made this event particularly memorable was the clean sweep of awards by Sean Baker’s film, Anora, which not only secured the coveted Best Picture award but also bagged four other Oscars, setting the stage for celebrations and discussions among cinephiles.
Anora, heralded for its innovative storytelling and exceptional performances, won five awards overall: Best Film, Best Director (Sean Baker), Best Actress (Mikey Madison), Best Original Screenplay, and Best Editing. This win was widely anticipated following its triumph at the Cannes Film Festival where it earned the prestigious Palme d'Or.
The ceremony also featured standout performances from other notable films. Jacques Audiard’s Emilia Pérez brought home two Oscars, including Best Supporting Actress for Zoe Saldaña and Best Original Song. The film, which dominated French cinema with its unique narrative approach, tells the story of Rita, played by Saldaña, who navigates the challenging world of cartel law and personal transition.
Brady Corbet’s gripping psychological drama, The Brutalist, clinched three Oscars, one of which was awarded to Adrien Brody for Best Actor. His portrayal of complex human emotions intertwined with architectural references won the hearts of both the audience and the critics alike. Another highlight was Kieran Culkin’s win for Best Supporting Actor for his role in A Real Pain, adding to the competitive depth of this year’s selections.
Yet, the evening's surprises did not end there. Edward Berger’s Conclave, which explores the murky waters of papal elections, won the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay. Critics had high hopes for this film after its strong showing leading up to the ceremony, as it has been praised for its intense themes and captivating performances from its star-studded cast, including Ralph Fiennes.
Flow, the cat who was no longer afraid of water, directed by Gints Zilbalodis, won the Oscar for Best Animated Film, proving the appeal of animation and its ability to connect with both younger and older audiences. This film is recognized for its unique aesthetic and engaging storyline, capturing the imagination of festival attendees and audiences alike.
The comprehensive winners' list from the 2025 Oscars is as follows:
- Best Film: Anora by Sean Baker
- Best Director: Sean Baker for Anora
- Best Actress: Mikey Madison in Anora
- Best Actor: Adrien Brody in The Brutalist
- Best Supporting Actress: Zoe Saldaña in Emilia Pérez
- Best Supporting Actor: Kieran Culkin in A Real Pain
- Best Original Screenplay: Anora by Sean Baker
- Best Adapted Screenplay: Peter Straughan for Conclave
- Best Original Score: Daniel Blumberg for The Brutalist
- Best Original Song: "El Mal" from Emilia Pérez
- Best International Film: Je suis toujours là by Walter Salles
- Best Animated Film: Flow, the cat who was no longer afraid of water by Gints Zilbalodis
- Best Documentary Film: No Other Land by Y. Abraham, B. Adra, R. Szor, H. Ballal
- Best Make-up and Hairstyling: P-O Persin, S. Guillon and M. Scarselli for The Substance
- Best Costume Design: Paul Tazewell for Wicked
- Best Set Design: Nathan Crowley and Lee Sandales for Wicked
- Best Editing: Anora by Sean Baker
- Best Photography: Lol Crawley for The Brutalist
- Best Sound Mixing: G. John, R. King, R. Bartlett and D. Hemphill for Dune Part II
- Best Visual Effects: P. Lambert, S. James, R. Salcombe and G. Nefzer for Dune Part II
- Best Fiction Short Film: I'm Not A Robot by Victoria Warmerdam
- Best Animated Short: In The Shadow of the Cypress by Shirin Sohani and Hossein Molayemi
- Best Documentary Short: The Only Girl in the Orchestra by Molly O'Brien and Lisa Remington
The 2025 Oscars not only celebrated the artistry within the film industry but highlighted important themes and storytelling techniques adjusting to modern sensibilities. With many films reflective of current social issues, the night served both as recognition for outstanding talent and as inspiration for future cinematic endeavors.