The 2025 Academy Awards marked the 97th ceremony celebrating excellence in film, held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on the night of March 2-3, 2025. Hosted for the first time by comedian Conan O'Brien, the gala aimed to honor filmmakers and their spectacular works from the past year.
This year, the Academy spotlighted several standout films including "The Brutalist," "Konklawe," "Wicked," and most significantly, "Anora," which emerged as the big winner of the night. With multiple nominations and victories, "Anora" captured the prestigious accolade of Best Picture, reaffirming its status within the industry. Sean Baker, the film's director, expressed his gratitude during his acceptance speech, saying, "Thank you Academy for recognizing truly independent film. This film is blood, sweat, and tears. Truly independent cinema." Alongside Baker, producers Alex Coco and Samantha Quan thanked everyone involved, with Coco stating, "We made this film for $6 million. We shot with a crew of forty. Make independent films because it’s proof it’s worth it." Their passion and dedication certainly paid off!
Alongside "Anora," other notable wins included Adrien Brody, who took home the Oscar for Best Actor for his role in "The Brutalist." During his acceptance, Brody expressed deep appreciation for his family, stating, "I owe this honor to my family who gave me strength to follow my dreams." Meanwhile, Mikey Madison surprised many by winning Best Actress for her poignant performance in "Anora," where she emphasized her support for sex workers: "This award is for all sex workers and I promise to keep supporting you." Her heartfelt speech struck a chord with audiences and showcased the event's emotional resonance.
The ceremony also celebrated remarkable talents within supporting roles, with Zoe Saldana winning for her work in "Emilia Pérez," and Kieran Culkin receiving the award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "Prawdziwy ból." Each winner took the stage to share their gratitude and acknowledge their peers, reflecting the camaraderie within the film industry.
A focal point of the night was the Best International Feature Film, awarded to Brazil's "I’m Still Here"—a historical win for the nation. This acknowledgment signifies the growing appreciation for global narratives, providing diverse voices within the cinematic space.
Highlighting the musical contributions, the award for Best Original Song went to "El Mal" from "Emilia Pérez," where the composers expressed how art and music play pivotal roles within society. Performances throughout the evening included moving tributes to legends of the industry, celebrating the impact of cinema on global culture.
Reflecting on the night’s accomplishments, it is evident the Oscars continue to adapt and recognize powerful storytelling across genres. The triumph of films like "Anora" emphasizes the potential for independent cinema, encouraging filmmakers to pursue their vision, regardless of budget constraints. Sean Baker concluded the night with compelling words: "We’re here because we love films. Filmmakers, keep making movies. Distributors, focus on theatrical releases. Take your kids to the movies." His closing sentiments echoed the vibrant spirit of the evening.
The 2025 Academy Awards once again reaffirmed its role as the pinnacle of recognition within the film industry. This year’s ceremony not only celebrated the winners but also served as a moment where filmmakers, actors, and creators came together to acknowledge the magic of cinema and its ability to inspire change.