The prestigious Oscar 2025 ceremony is primed for March 2, with excitement building around the nominations and performances. This year, there's special significance for Brazilian cinema, as it celebrates its first nomination for Best Film with the feature 'Ainda Estou Aqui,' directed by Walter Salles. The film also clinches nominations for Best International Film and Best Actress for Fernanda Torres, highlighting the rising prominence of Brazilian narratives on the global stage.
With ticket sales soaring—over R$ 2.5 billion through 2024 and 'Ainda Estou Aqui' pulling R$ 100 million alone—it is the fifth highest-grossing film domestically. Critics recognize the film as both a financial success and an impactful storytelling medium, welcoming discussions around its international potential.
On the performance front, the ceremony will feature artists like Queen Latifah, Doja Cat, Raye, and Lisa from the K-Pop sensation Blackpink, who will collaborate for unique musical interludes. Further heightening the anticipation, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande will showcase performances from the acclaimed film 'Wicked,' which has received eight nominations, including Best Film and several acting categories. This collective lineup exemplifies the merging of varying talents and storytelling styles.
This year's Oscar nominations are particularly noteworthy, as they may lead to record-breaking achievements. The competition includes the musical 'Emilia Perez' and 'The Brutalist,' alongside 'Wicked,' with all three films garnering significant attention for their artistry and narratives. Notably, this marks the first time since 1969, two musicals have been nominated for Best Film, indicating the resurgence of this genre and its growing acceptance among Academy voters.
Returning to Brazilian representation: 'Ainda Estou Aqui' marks the end of years without nominations for the country. Last represented by 'Central do Brasil' (1999), where Fernanda Montenegro also contended for Best Actress, the current film’s multiple nominations—including for Best International Film—signifies an important step forward for Brazilian cinema. Critics concur this film is poised to make history, possibly winning awards for both Fernanda Torres and Walter Salles.
With significant moments of pride, the ceremony sets the stage for potential historic wins. If Torres manages to win Best Actress, she will not only add to her accolades but become the first Brazilian to do so after over two decades. The anticipation surrounding her performance is intensified by the benchmarking against her mother, Fernanda Montenegro, previous nominee.
Aside from the Brazilian highlights, the Oscars remain marred by controversies. This year, films like 'The Brutalist' have faced scrutiny for their use of AI, leading to discussions about ethics within the filmmaking process. These areas of concern could sway voters as public sentiments evolve. On the other hand, films representing ample diversity, such as 'Emilia Perez' exploring Latinx stories, might redefine acceptance for future nominations.
Scandals earlier this year have accompanied the award race, with social media debates about representation and meritocracy during award seasons. Issues raised are shaping how films are interpreted and evaluated, with industry professionals weighing various elements over traditional cinematic techniques.
Among the nominated films, 'The Substance' has emerged as the first horror film to be nominated for Best Picture, and queries about how mainstream tastes have shifted are echoing throughout industry discussions. The Oscar nominations had revealed notable overlaps with the titles nominated for Best Picture, where all contenders align impressively with Best Actress nominations for the first time since 1977.
Engagements through streaming platforms and social media are anticipated to bolster viewership this year. The YouTube live broadcasts and availability of free documentaries related to the nominations are part of the strategy to connect audiences, bridging the gap between traditional filmgoers and digital natives. Audiences can immerse themselves fully, especially with options like the acclaimed 'I’m Not A Robot,' depicting insightful narratives.
The Oscar 2025 promises not only to celebrate artistic excellence but aims to highlight the shift within the industry toward inclusivity and innovation. The world of cinema continues to reflect broader societal changes, encapsulating various cultures, practices, and storytelling methods. On March 2, the Dolby Theatre will become the epicenter of these transformations, showcasing films and individuals who define contemporary cinema.
While many anticipate the fanfare, others are poised for practical discussions on how these awards reflect on wider industry standards. With each nominee holding unique stories and significant contributions to film, the night will not only honor traditional storytelling but will also critique the mechanisms driving the industry forward.
What will emerge as the highlight of the night is still up for grabs, but 'Ainda Estou Aqui' and its contenders guarantee it will be one to watch.