The 97th Academy Awards, held on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, celebrated a year of remarkable cinematic achievements. Hosted by Conan O’Brien, the ceremony honored outstanding contributions to film, with several noteworthy winners taking center stage.
“Anora” Dominates with Five Oscars
Leading the evening was Sean Baker’s “Anora,” which secured five Oscars, including Best Picture. Baker’s exceptional work earned him awards for Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Film Editing, making him the first filmmaker to win four Oscars in a single night for one film. Mikey Madison’s portrayal of the titular character garnered her the Best Actress award, solidifying “Anora” as a standout film of the year.
Adrien Brody and Zoe Saldaña Shine in Acting Categories
Adrien Brody won Best Actor for his role in “The Brutalist,” earning his second Oscar in this category. Zoe Saldaña’s performance in “Emilia Pérez” earned her the Best Supporting Actress award, marking a significant moment in her career.
Kieran Culkin Recognized for “A Real Pain”
Kieran Culkin’s performance in “A Real Pain” earned him the Best Supporting Actor award, highlighting his versatility and depth as an actor.
“Wicked” and Paul Tazewell Make History
The film adaptation of the musical “Wicked” won Best Costume Design, with Paul Tazewell becoming the first Black man to win in this category. The film also received accolades for Best Production Design, showcasing its exceptional visual appeal.
“I’m Still Here” and “Flow” Recognized in International and Animated Categories
Brazil’s “I’m Still Here” won Best International Feature, reflecting the global reach of cinema. The animated film “Flow” was awarded Best Animated Feature, highlighting innovation in storytelling within the animation genre.
Special Honorees and Memorable Moments
The ceremony also honored industry legends such as Juliet Taylor, Quincy Jones, Richard Curtis, Barbara Broccoli, and Michael G. Wilson, acknowledging their significant contributions to cinema.
Despite facing challenges like the California wildfires, which delayed the announcement of nominations, the event successfully celebrated the resilience and creativity of the film industry.
Overall, the 2025 Oscars highlighted a diverse array of talent and storytelling, reflecting the evolving landscape of cinema.
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