The 97th Academy Awards ceremony, held at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on the night of March 2 to 3, 2025, captivated millions of viewers with its celebration of cinematic excellence. Hosted by comedian Conan O'Brien, this year’s event saw moments of laughter paired with heartfelt speeches, truly embodying the spirit of Hollywood.
Among the standout films of the evening, Sean Baker's "Anora" claimed the title of the evening's top winner, pulling off the remarkable feat of securing five Oscars—including the coveted Best Picture. Baker individually took home four awards for Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Film Editing, tying the impressive record set by Walt Disney back in 1954. His contributions to the film industry have been both recognized and acknowledged, solidifying his status as one of contemporary cinema’s leading voices.
During the awards, Baker expressed his gratitude, highlighting the impact of storytelling and the importance of authentic voices within the film industry. "We tell stories not just for entertainment, but to provoke thought and inspire change," he noted during his acceptance speech, emphasizing the social themes explored within "Anora." This emotional resonance is what made the film stand apart from its competitors.
Mikey Madison, who portrayed the lead role, won the Oscar for Best Actress. Her portrayal was described as electric, capturing the complex emotions of her character. "What a dream! I can’t believe this is real. I owe everything to my family and this amazing cast!" she exclaimed, exhibiting the genuine joy present throughout the evening. Madison’s success was mirrored by Adrien Brody, awarded Best Actor for his remarkable performance in "The Brutalist." Brody expressed gratitude to his parents, acknowledging the values they instilled in him, which he claimed had shaped his career.
With the spotlight on acting performances, Zoe Saldana won Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Emilia Perez." During her acceptance speech, she proudly spoke of her immigrant heritage, saying, "I stand here as the daughter of hardworking immigrants and hope to pave the way for future generations." Her speech not only highlighted her personal triumphs but also called attention to broader, societal themes—a key point of this year’s Oscars.
While "Anora" basked in its success, it was contrary for "Emilia Perez," which, even though it had garnered numerous nominations, only managed to win two awards, making it one of the night’s most discussed disappointments. Reportedly, many expected it to dominate, yet criticism arose about the film's execution overshadowing its potential accolades.
One of the noteworthy moments occurred during O'Brien's snappy opening monologue, where he deftly made fun of Hollywood royalty. He quipped, "You’re all staring at me, Conan O’Brien. I haven't had any work done yet, oh look, I still look my age!" This playful jab at the celebrity culture was met with uproarious laughter, setting the tone for the evening.
The show also honored films across varied genres, showcasing the depth and creativity of the entertainment industry. Other notable awards included Best International Feature Film, which went to "I’m Still Here" from Brazil, and Best Animated Feature, awarded to "Flow". There were also categories for technical achievements, such as Best Sound and Best Visual Effects, with "Dune: Part Two" triumphing as well, securing several technical awards.
Moving through the night, the audience was treated to emotional tributes, including one to the late Hollywood stars who passed this past year. A touching moment was marked by Morgan Freeman's heartfelt speech, commemorated with the haunting notes of Mozart’s "Lacrimosa" echoing throughout the hall.
The producers of the ceremony ensured inclusivity by recognizing various international talents and contributions. For example, winners of the Best Short Documentary, "The Only Girl in the Orchestra", highlighted collaborative efforts and the cross-cultural narratives shaping modern cinema.
Reports indicated the atmosphere was light-hearted yet poignant, as audiences embraced the successes and setbacks of films and actors alike. The overarching sentiment by the end of the evening coincided with Baker's philosophy of filmmaking—that stories matter. The Academy Awards once again reaffirmed the power of cinema to engage, entertain, and reflect society.
With the winning film, "Anora," sparking talks of its acclaim and Baker’s prowess being compared to groundbreaking figures like Walt Disney, the event set the stage for the future of Hollywood, encouraging change and innovation. The Oscars 2025 will be remembered not only for its impressive list of winners but also for the narratives woven throughout the night, showcasing the triumphs and tribulations defining the very essence of filmmaking.