The 97th Academy Awards, held on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, celebrated the pinnacle of cinematic achievements from the past year. Hosted by the ever-charismatic Conan O’Brien, the evening was a blend of glamour, heartfelt speeches, and groundbreaking wins.
Dominance of “Anora”
The night undeniably belonged to Sean Baker’s Anora, a film that not only captivated audiences but also made a significant mark in Oscar history. The film secured five awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Film Editing, and Best Actress for Mikey Madison. This achievement positioned Baker alongside Walt Disney, matching a 70-year-old record for the most Oscars won by an individual in a single year.
Anora tells the poignant story of a sex worker who marries into a Russian oligarch’s family, navigating the complexities of love and societal expectations. Premiering at the Cannes Film Festival, it became the fourth Palme d’Or winner to clinch the Best Picture Oscar.
Notable Acting Accolades
- Best Actor: Firstly, Adrien Brody (The Brutalist) secured his second Oscar, 22 years after his first win for The Pianist. His heartfelt acceptance speech reflected on his journey and the film’s significance.
- Best Actress: Secondly, Mikey Madison (Anora) delivered a powerful performance that earned her the coveted award.
- Best Supporting Actress: Zoe Saldaña (Emilia Pérez) became the first American of Dominican origin to receive an Oscar. Her emotional acceptance speech resonated with many, highlighting the importance of representation in cinema.
- Best Supporting Actor: Kieran Culkin’s performance earned him the prestigious award, further solidifying his place among Hollywood’s elite.
Musical Highlights
The ceremony’s musical performances were nothing short of spectacular:
- Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo opened the show with a mesmerizing medley from Wicked, setting a vibrant tone for the evening.
- Doja Cat delivered a theatrical performance of El Mal, the Oscar-winning Best Original Song from Emilia Pérez.
Tributes and Memoriam
The In Memoriam segment, introduced by Morgan Freeman, paid a touching tribute to the late Gene Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner. Also the segment honored industry legends who passed away over the year, reminding attendees and viewers of their lasting impact on cinema.
Red Carpet Fashion
As always, the Oscars red carpet was a showcase of elegance and style:
- Halle Berry stunned in a silver Oscar de la Renta halter-neck dress.
- Ariana Grande dazzled in a pink gown adorned with thousands of crystals.
- Cynthia Erivo‘s silver ensemble further highlighted the evening’s glamorous ambiance.
Technical Glitches
Despite the evening’s successes, technical issues with Hulu’s streaming service caused interruptions, preventing some viewers from watching the final awards. These glitches sparked discussions about the reliability of streaming platforms for live events.
Conclusion
The Oscar 2025 not only celebrated cinematic excellence but also highlighted the industry’s evolution, with independent films like Anora taking center stage. Moreover, the evening underscored the importance of diverse storytelling, representation, and the timeless allure of the silver screen.
