The 97th Annual Academy Awards, held on March 2, 2025 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, honored the year’s greatest accomplishments in filmmaking.
The evening, which was hosted by the always entertaining Conan O’Brien, was full with historic victories, moving speeches, and fashion statements that will never be forgotten.
‘Anora’ Takes Center Stage
The greatest winner of the evening was the independent film “Anora,” which took home five Oscars: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actress, Best Editing, and Best Original Screenplay.
The film’s success, which was directed by Sean Baker, highlights the value of independent storytelling in Hollywood. Baker broke Walt Disney’s record of the most Oscars won by one individual in a single year, which had stood for 70 years.
Best Picture: ‘Anora’
Despite competing against well-known films such as A Complete Unknown and The Substance, “Anora” won Best Picture, enthralling viewers with its unvarnished acting and genuine narrative.
Best Director: Sean Baker
Sean Baker won the Best Director award for his imaginative direction of Anora. His status as a master storyteller has been cemented by his ability to portray genuine human emotions on screen.
Best Actress: Mikey Madison
Mikey Madison won Best Actress for her strong and emotionally compelling performance as the title character in “Anora.” Both critics and spectators found great resonance in her performance’s depth and nuance.
Adrien Brody’s Triumphant Return
Adrien Brody‘s performance in The Brutalist earned him his second Oscar for Best Actor. He gave a powerful and moving portrayal of a visionary architect overcoming both personal and professional obstacles. Brody discussed his professional experience and the value of passion in the arts in his acceptance speech.
‘Emilia Pérez’ Shines in the Musical Category
‘Emilia Pérez‘, a musical by Jacques Audiard, received 13 nominations, won several awards, including Best Supporting Actress for Zoe Saldaña.
The film stands out as a cinematic masterpiece due to its inventive fusion of music and narrative.
Technical Brilliance in ‘Dune: Part Two’
“Dune: Part Two” won Best Sound and Best Visual Effects for its exceptional technical accomplishments. Audiences were drawn into the rich world of Arrakis by the film’s innovative visual effects and engrossing soundscapes.
Red Carpet Fashion: Classic Hollywood Elegance
Old Hollywood glitz returned to the red carpet during the 2025 Oscars. Many celebrities chose monochromatic ensembles in tones of champagne, silver, white, and black, embracing classic fashions.
Best Dressed Stars:
- Ariana Grande made a splash in a pink Schiaparelli custom gown, honoring her part in the upcoming Wicked movie.
- Cynthia Erivo, wearing a bright green Louis Vuitton gown, embodied the essence of her Wicked character Elphaba.
- Mikey Madison looked stunning in a dress with a nod to the timeless style of Hollywood’s heyday.
- Adrien Brody chose a fitted black tuxedo, which was a classic and sophisticated choice.
Unforgettable Moments and Highlights
The ceremony was filled with moments that left a lasting impression:
Conan O’Brien’s Hosting Debut:
The comedian received a lot of praise for hosting the Oscars for the first time. His satire of The Substance in his introductory monologue created a lighthearted atmosphere for the event.
Political remarks:
After winning Best Documentary Feature, the directors of No Other Land made direct political comments using their position, which sparked conversations about artistic activism.
Post-Ceremony Earthquake:
Shortly after the ceremony ended, Los Angeles experienced a mild earthquake, causing a brief stir among attendees, though no damage or injuries were reported.
Surprising Snubs and Upsets
Every Oscars ceremony has its share of surprises, and 2025 was no exception:
Nicole Kidman and Angelina Jolie:
Both actors departed empty-handed despite giving highly praised performances, sparking contentious debates on social media.
Denzel Washington:
His omission from the winners’ list was one of the night’s most shocking snubs.
Exclusive After-Parties: Hollywood’s Biggest Night Continues
The celebrations didn’t end with the ceremony—Hollywood’s elite gathered at exclusive after-parties, including:
- The Vanity Fair Oscar Party: Attended by the biggest stars, this event featured dazzling outfits and candid moments.
- Elton John’s Annual AIDS Foundation Viewing Party: A glamorous affair that also raised funds for charity.
- Netflix’s Star-Studded Bash: The streaming giant hosted one of the most exclusive post-Oscars events, celebrating the night’s big wins.
- Governor’s Ball: The official post-Oscars gathering where winners and nominees enjoyed a luxurious evening with gourmet dining and live entertainment.
- Private Celebrity Gatherings: Stars like Leonardo DiCaprio and Margot Robbie hosted private celebrations, making the night even more memorable.
Final Thoughts: A Night to Remember
In addition to its historic victories and ground-breaking moments, the 2025 Oscars will be recognized for celebrating diversity and brilliance in film. The incredible performances in “Emilia Pérez” and “The Brutalist,” as well as Sean Baker‘s record-breaking accomplishments, served as a reminder of the cinematic storytelling power of this year’s prizes.
Celebrities’ embrace of the quintessential Hollywood elegance contributed significantly to the night’s outstanding quality. The industry’s ability to combine tradition and contemporary was demonstrated by the resurgence of monochromatic and vintage-inspired styles.
The Oscars continue to stand as a tribute to the commitment, skill, and originality that characterize Hollywood as the film business changes. As they look forward to the future of film, fans all across the world are already making predictions about the nominees for next year.
What were your favorite moments from the 2025 Oscars? Let us know in the comments!
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