The 97th Academy Awards, held on Sunday, March 2, 2025, showcased some of the year's most captivating films, with stiff competition for the coveted Best Picture award. With no clear frontrunner, movies like 'Anora', 'The Brutalist', and 'Conclave' lead the charge, providing plenty of drama and anticipation for audiences.
Comedian Conan O’Brien, the evening's host, has promised to deliver a night filled with humor, cinematic tributes, and poignant moments, including nods to the recent wildfire recovery efforts in Los Angeles. “We’re trying to find different tones, different textures,” O’Brien noted, hinting at the balance of entertainment and respect during the ceremony.
The competition this year has been particularly fierce, as experts believe any of the nominated films could take home the Oscars’ top prize. 'Anora' depicts the transformative story of a sex worker aiming for her own Cinderella moment, whereas 'The Brutalist' explores the life of László Tóth, portrayed by Adrien Brody, who dreams of becoming a renowned architect after fleeing war-torn Hungary.
Meanwhile, 'Conclave' imagines the secretive processes involved in electing a new pope. The nominations also include the musical 'Wicked', which serves as a prequel to 'The Wizard of Oz', and 'A Complete Unknown', starring Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan, alongside the Brazilian film 'Ainda Estou Aqui', which is vying for the Best International Feature Film award.
Streaming sensation 'Emilia Perez' leads with the most overall nominations; still, its chances have been dampened by alarming social media scrutiny aimed at star Karla Sofía Gascon, who made history as the first openly transgender actress nominated for performance. Despite being absent from many pre-award events, she is expected to make an appearance at the Oscars, alongside co-star Zoe Saldana, who is viewed as the frontrunner for Best Supporting Actress.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences comprises about 11,000 voters—including actors, directors, and producers—who will cast their votes, contributing to the excitement and unpredictability of the outcome.
Behind the glitzy façade of Hollywood, film industry professionals are grappling with the changing nature of filmmaking, particularly the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI). Industry insiders suggest the outcomes of this year’s Oscars could significantly influence Hollywood’s relationship with AI, which has become the subject of heated debates over its role and ethical ramifications. “AI is here to stay,” said Warner Bailey, addressing the sentiment among some creatives who are wary of how AI might compromise artistic integrity.
The use of AI technologies has spurred controversy, seen by many as encroaching upon human creative efforts. For example, D.J. Gugenheim, the producer of 'The Brutalist', defended the film’s use of AI to refine the actors' Hungarian accents, insisting, “If no one is losing a job, and you’re making the best version of the product, then there’s no problem with using such tools.” His remarks highlight the industry’s struggle to balance innovation with traditions rooted deeply within the craft of filmmaking.
Several nominated films, including 'Emilia Pérez' and 'A Complete Unknown', leveraged AI technologies either for voice dubbing or other aspects of the production process. This has called for greater transparency about AI's use within the Academy, which is now contemplating the inclusion of guidelines surrounding AI disclosed during nomination submissions. “Disclosing when and how AI was used doesn’t diminish work’s value but provides clarity for audiences,” explained Robert Thompson, adding another layer of complexity to the conversation about AI and creativity.
The potential for AI to reshape perceptions around nominations and awards cannot be overlooked as the industry moves forward. With numerous films embracing these advancements, the Academy must adapt to determine how they will influence voting decisions. “Whoever is doing nominations or voting...is going to have to figure out if they have zero tolerance for artificial intelligence,” noted Thompson. The content of this year's ceremony might tilt the narrative toward acceptance and incorporation of AI within storytelling, as the industry approaches this turning point with cautious optimism.
Oscar darling 'The Brutalist', which has won three Golden Globes, tells the poignant story of architect László Tóth, who aspires to rebuild both his life and his profession after the horrors of World War II. Its success has been attributed not just to the compelling narrative but also the exceptional cast, including Felicity Jones and Joe Alwyn. With ten Oscar nominations including Best Picture, Best Actor for Brody, and Best Director for Brady Corbet, 'The Brutalist' stands as a powerful example of independent filmmaking triumphing against the odds.
“Brady Corbet, the director, thought we were going to be shooting it three weeks after I signed on, but, of course, it was three years later,” shared actor Alessandro Nivola, reflecting on the lengthy production timeline. This project, which began during the early pandemic, has since evolved, capturing the hearts of audiences and critics alike. Nivola celebrated the attention the film has received: "It feels celebratory...the movie has already exceeded my expectations. It’s fun and amazing.”
With the Oscars ramping up their significance as cultural markers, the night promises to be filled with memorable performances and unexpected surprises. The intersection of tradition and modernity will take center stage, as the film community navigates the exhilarating yet treacherous waters of evolution propelled by technology.