Hollywood's biggest night is rapidly approaching, and the excitement surrounding the Oscars continues to escalate, especially with the recent announcement of the 2025 nominations. On January 23, the Academy unveiled its list, showcasing the films and talents set to compete at the event scheduled for March 2. Leading the pack is Emilia Pérez, directed by Jacques Audiard, which has made history by securing 13 nominations, the most ever for a non-English language film!
Reflecting the increasing prominence of international cinema, Emilia Pérez has surpassed the previous record held by films like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Roma, both of which garnered 10 nominations. This emotional musical drama, primarily presented in Spanish, tells the poignant story of a Mexican drug trafficker undergoing gender transition, thereby intertwining themes of identity and self-discovery.
Among the numerous nominations, Emilia Pérez is vying for several of the most prestigious categories, including Best Film, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Actress. Karla Sofia Gascón, the first openly transgender actress nominated for the Best Actress award, plays the leading role, alongside Zoe Saldaña, who is nominated for Best Supporting Actress. Saldaña applauded the increased visibility for LGBTQ+ representation within Hollywood, stating, "This is not just about awards; it's about the stories we tell and who gets to tell them."
Also making waves is The Substance, directed by Coralie Fargeat, which has received five nominations, including Best Director and Best Film. This psychological horror film featuring Demi Moore pushes the envelope on societal issues tied to ageism, particularly within the entertainment industry. Moore expressed her joy over the nomination, emphasizing the importance of recognizing diverse narratives, saying, "I hope this leads to more opportunities for women of all ages."
Equally noteworthy is The Brutalist, which garnered 10 nominations, including Best Actor for Adrien Brody, who deeply embodies the character of a Holocaust survivor. The film, which intertwines elements of history with artistic ambition, faces some scrutiny over the implication of using artificial intelligence to perfect the Hungarian accents of its main actors. Despite this, it continues to be regarded as one of the top contenders for multiple awards.
Hollywood's changing dynamics are evident as major streaming services, particularly Disney+, will now host the Oscars, departing from traditional television broadcasts. This change signifies shifting audience habits, and more so highlights the growing influence of platforms like Disney+ and the global reach they provide.
The announcement of nominations did not pass without controversy, with critics expressing disappointment over several notable exclusions. High-profile performances from actors like Saoirse Ronan and Angelina Jolie failed to receive nominations, provoking discussions on diversity and recognition within the industry. Similarly, the absence of Denis Villeneuve for his direction of Dune: Part Two draws attention to the competitive nature of this year's awards.
On the other hand, the historical achievements of Emilia Pérez reflect the changing tides, as audiences increasingly embrace films telling diverse stories from around the world. Filmmakers increasingly spotlight complex themes threading through communities often overlooked by mainstream narratives, delivering messages integral to contemporary social dialogues.
With this plethora of nominations, the anticipation is building leading up to the Oscars ceremony. The nods reflect not only the artistic merit but also the larger cultural significance of the stories being told. It promises to be one of the most dynamic and compelling Oscar nights yet, drawing attention to the power of international cinema and its growing acceptance within the Hollywood sphere. The 97th Academy Awards will illuminate stars of all backgrounds and genres, showcasing talents who strive to reflect the humanity found within all stories.
And so, as nominees prepare for their possible wins and losses, the buzz surrounding the Oscars serves to reinforce cinema's role as both entertainment and cultural commentary. More than just awards, these nominations highlight the real-world connections and narratives intertwining art and life. The stage is set for March 2—will Emilia Pérez take home the top prizes and solidify its place in Oscar history?