The anticipation is palpable as the countdown to the 97th Academy Awards begins, with the ceremony set for March 2, 2025, hosted by Conan O'Brien. This year's awards, which follow an eventful season marred by unprecedented controversies and fierce competition, aim to recognize the best films of 2024—from the gritty indie film 'Anora' to the star-studded 'Wicked.'
The predictions this year are anything but straightforward. Unlike previous years, where favorites often emerged well before Oscar night, this year has seen uncertainty reign supreme. A notable aspect influencing the race includes the aftermath of revelations around past tweets from 'Emilia Pérez' star Karla Sofía Gascón, which seriously impacted the film's prospects after it was initially seen as the frontrunner for Best Picture.
'Anora', which examines the complex life of a Brooklyn sex worker marrying the son of a Russian oligarch, has been at the forefront of predictions ever since it won key awards during the season, including the Critics Choice Award, the Directors Guild Award, and the Producers Guild Award. Its director, Sean Baker, is also favored to win Best Director, bolstered by these significant victories.
Despite 'Anora's' strong position, 'The Brutalist'—a poignant narrative centered on Holocaust survival—mounts fierce competition thanks to its success at the BAFTAS and its own momentum heading toward the Oscars. The movie's lead actor, Adrien Brody, is predicted to take home his second Oscar for his powerful performance, showcasing the dramatic tension of the film beautifully. Meanwhile, Timothée Chalamet from 'A Complete Unknown' poses as a credible challenger.
Ralph Fiennes' haunting words from 'Conclave' resonate as the Academy has been known to favor more traditional narratives. His line, "There is one sin I have come to fear above all others: certainty," serves as a reminder of the unpredictable turns this awards season has taken, with 'Conclave' now hovering as another major contender following its wins at the BAFTA and SAG awards. This newfound potential creates the perfect stage for Oscar night surprises, particularly as voting concluded on February 18, leaving behind the uncertainty of momentum.
Among the acting categories, Best Actress is particularly competitive. Demi Moore's performance in 'The Substance' has gained considerable buzz, and many believe it is too strong to overlook. Mikey Madison, nominated for 'Anora', and Karla Sofía Gascón from 'Emilia Pérez' are also serious contenders, the latter’s previous controversies causing unexpected volatility for her chances.
Predictions for the acting categories are compelling. Kieran Culkin has emerged as the go-to pick for Best Supporting Actor due to his winning streak this season; this consistency makes him the favorite for his role in 'A Real Pain'. On the female side of things, Zoe Saldaña's work in 'Emilia Pérez' seems to guarantee her victory for Best Supporting Actress, displaying resilience amid surrounding controversies.
Looking beyond the performance categories, the screenplay races promise intrigue. 'Conclave' is expected to clinch Best Adapted Screenplay, thanks to its compelling storytelling and industry favoritism, whereas 'Anora' should take home the award for Best Original Screenplay, following its strong narrative appeal.
Animation aficionados will note the close competition between 'The Wild Robot' and 'Flow', but the former's broad acclaim may just edge it across the finish line. Similarly, the Best Documentary feature looks to be favoring 'No Other Land', which depicts urgent issues through the lens of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, another reflection of pressing societal themes.
On the technical side of awards, major contenders such as 'The Brutalist' and 'Dune: Part Two' compete vigorously for Best Visual Effects, with the former predicted to take home the Oscar based on its innovative cinematography, especially after its wins at various precursor awards.
With only days left until the Oscars, discussions are ramping up about how this award show may reflect broader changes within cinema and the Academy itself. Many hope this year’s winners will mark another step toward greater inclusivity and representation.
Audiences can expect surprises and perhaps even some shockers. Oscar predictions aside, the real question remains: which film or performer will capture the gold? We will find out on March 2, so be sure to tune in as the 2025 Academy Awards promise to be one for the history books.