The 97th Academy Awards, held on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, celebrated a year of cinematic achievements with notable victories, unexpected upsets, and memorable moments. Hosted by comedian Conan O’Brien, the ceremony honoured films and performances that left a significant impact on audiences and critics alike.
Dominance of “Anora”
The independent film “Anora” emerged as the night’s biggest winner, securing five Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Film Editing, and Best Actress. Directed by Sean Baker, “Anora” tells the poignant story of Ani, a sex worker who becomes involved with the son of a Russian oligarch, navigating a narrative that transitions from a fairy tale to a harrowing ordeal. Baker’s achievement was historic, as he became only the second individual, after Walt Disney in 1954, to win four Oscars in a single night.
In his acceptance speech, Baker expressed gratitude towards Quentin Tarantino for casting Mikey Madison in “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” a role that paved the way for her casting in “Anora.” He also emphasized the importance of supporting independent cinema and the theatrical experience, urging audiences to continue visiting local theatres.
Mikey Madison’s Best Actress Triumph
A highlight of the evening was Mikey Madison’s win for Best Actress, a category where veteran actress Demi Moore was widely considered the favourite for her role in “The Substance.” Madison’s portrayal of Ani in “Anora” captivated the Academy, making her the ninth-youngest recipient of the Best Actress Oscar at 25. In her heartfelt speech, Madison honoured the sex worker community and acknowledged their stories, bringing attention to often marginalized voices.
Adrien Brody’s Best Actor Win
Adrien Brody clinched the Best Actor award for his performance in “The Brutalist,” marking his second Oscar win. Brody’s portrayal of a visionary architect in post-war America was lauded for its depth and complexity. During his acceptance speech, Brody made headlines by requesting the orchestra to halt their play-off music, allowing him to complete his remarks without interruption. He used the platform to advocate for a more inclusive and compassionate world, reflecting on lessons from history.
Zoe Saldana’s Emotional Win
Zoe Saldaña made history by winning Best Supporting Actress for her role in Emilia Pérez, becoming the first American of Dominican origin to receive an Academy Award. In a heartfelt speech, she honoured her family’s immigrant journey, sharing that her grandmother arrived in the U.S. in 1961. Expressing pride in her heritage, Saldaña reflected on being “a child of immigrant parents with dreams and dignity.” She also emphasized the significance of diversity and representation in Hollywood, with her emotional tribute resonating deeply with audiences.
“Wicked” and Other Notable Winners
The highly anticipated film adaptation of the musical “Wicked” secured two Oscars for Best Costume Design and Best Production Design. Despite high expectations, the film did not win in major categories but was recognized for its outstanding visual achievements.
In the Best Animated Feature category, Latvia’s “Flow,” directed by Gints Zilbalodis, surprised many by winning over major studio productions like Pixar’s “Inside Out 2.” “Flow” was praised for its innovative storytelling and unique animation style, marking a significant achievement for Latvian cinema.
Memorable Moments and Surprises
The ceremony was filled with moments that sparked conversations both in the theatre and on social media. Host Conan O’Brien’s opening monologue received acclaim for its sharp wit, including a joke about “Anora” that resonated with audiences: “I guess Americans are excited to see someone finally stand up to a powerful Russian.”
A nostalgic highlight occurred on the red carpet when Halle Berry playfully recreated her famous kiss with Adrien Brody from the 2003 Oscars. This time, Berry initiated the kiss, bringing a light-hearted moment that delighted fans and attendees alike.
Kieran Culkin’s acceptance speech for Best Supporting Actor in “A Real Pain” was partially censored during the live broadcast. Culkin humorously referenced a personal agreement with his wife, joking that she had promised him a fourth child if he won an Oscar, a remark that was muted on television but later circulated online.
Tributes and In Memoriam Segment
The In Memoriam segment honoured industry figures who passed away over the past year. However, it faced criticism for omitting notable names such as Michelle Trachtenberg and Tony Todd, sparking discussions about the selection process for this tribute. Additionally, the choice of Mozart’s “Requiem” as background music was deemed too sombre by some viewers, contrasting with previous years’ more uplifting musical selections.
Conclusion
The 2025 Oscars celebrated the diversity and creativity of the film industry, with “Anora” leading the charge in recognizing independent cinema’s power. The night’s surprises, heartfelt speeches, and memorable moments contributed to a ceremony that will be remembered for its celebration of both emerging talents and seasoned artists.
