Film enthusiasts are gearing up for the highly anticipated 97th Academy Awards, set to take place on March 2, 2025. This year, the buzz around formidable contenders is already creating waves within Hollywood and beyond, with 'Emilia Pérez' and 'Wicked' leading the charge.
'Emilia Pérez', produced by Netflix, received six nominations across various categories, heightening its chances for multiple awards. These nominations include makeup, sound, original score, international feature, and two for original song – 'El Mal' and 'Mi Camino'. Meanwhile, 'Wicked', distributed by Universal Pictures, is also making its mark with four nominations. Oscar voting opens on January 8, 2025, and nominations will be revealed on January 17, setting the stage for what promises to be one of the most competitive awards seasons yet.
The shortlists have introduced fierce competition, particularly within the Best International Feature category. Films like Latvia's 'Flow', Palestine's 'From Ground Zero', and Germany's 'The Seed of the Sacred Fig' showcase the diverse storytelling seen across global cinema today. For the first time, France’s film 'Emilia Pérez' stands as not just the frontrunner, but also as the winningest film from the country if it claims its first Oscar for Best Picture since 30 years.
The Academy's 2024 Oscars calendar reveals key dates for the upcoming awards season, starting with the general entry submission deadline on November 14, 2024. Further assessments will culminate at the Governors Awards on November 17, with preliminary voting kicking off on December 9, 2024. After this intense process, Academy members from various branches are invited to participate once nominations are announced, only to converge again at the Oscars ceremony.
With media and audiences alike eager to crown the best filmmaker, actors, and award-worthy stories, this year's Oscar predictions echo the exhilarating tension often felt during sporting events.
Among the notable films vying for honors is the politically charged documentary 'The Bibi Files', which chronicles the corruption charges against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Other deserving mentions include 'Daughters', shedding light on gender and power, alongside 'Sugarcane' which captures the life of farmers. The documentary branch revealed its surprise inclusions, as past winners like HBO’s 'The Commandant’s Shadow' failed to make the list, shocking industry experts.
International features are similarly on display, showcasing filmmaking prowess from around the globe. Despite some films being left out, such as Portugal’s 'Grand Tour', which received acclaim at Cannes, the competition remains fierce. Films directed by talents from countries like Norway, Brazil, and Senegal join the fray, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in various cultures and narratives.
With each film offering potent storytelling and artistic merit, the Academy voters are challenged to honor the diverse voices this year brings, especially in the documentary and live-action short film categories. The combination of independent films and big-budget studio projects showcases the evolution of cinema and storytelling.
Reflecting on the significance of these nominations, there's much anticipation for the musical category where both 'Emilia Pérez' and 'Wicked' are expected to shine. Interestingly, the field for original songs includes gems from other contenders, intensifying interest and debates about who might best capture the Oscar.
Hollywood is gearing up for electric performances as Conan O’Brien prepares to host the Oscars, promising comedic moments and fresh perspective for the audience. With last-minute surprises and potential heartaches, the award night on March 2nd will not only showcase Hollywood's elite but also celebrate all aspects of innovation within the industry.
