The 97th Academy Awards nominations have finally been unveiled after a slight delay caused by the Los Angeles fires. With “Emilia Pérez,” “The Brutalist,” and “Wicked” leading the pack, the nominations showcase a blend of groundbreaking cinema and stellar performances, setting the stage for a thrilling Oscars night on March 2, 2025.
Best Picture Nominees: A Look at the Front-Runners
The coveted Best Picture category features an eclectic mix of storytelling, visual brilliance, and emotional depth. Topping the list is “Emilia Pérez” with 13 nominations, followed by “The Brutalist” and “Wicked” with 10 nods each. Other contenders include “Anora”, “A Complete Unknown”, “Conclave”, and the highly anticipated “Dune: Part Two”. These films bring diverse narratives, ranging from poignant dramas to visually stunning epics.
Breakthrough Directors and Notable Performances
The Best Director category celebrates visionaries who brought extraordinary stories to life. Jacques Audiard (“Emilia Pérez”), Sean Baker (“Anora”), and Coralie Fargeat (“The Substance”) are among the nominees, showcasing a mix of veteran expertise and innovative storytelling.
In the acting categories, Adrien Brody (“The Brutalist”) and Timothée Chalamet (“A Complete Unknown”) stand out in the Best Actor race. On the other hand, Best Actress nominees include Cynthia Erivo (“Wicked”) and Fernanda Torres (“I’m Still Here”), who have delivered powerful performances.
Musicals and International Features Shine
“Wicked,” a beloved Broadway adaptation, shines with nominations for Best Picture, Costume Design, and Original Song. International cinema also takes the spotlight with “I’m Still Here” from Brazil and “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” from Germany competing in the International Feature category.
Technical Brilliance: Production, Sound, and Visual Effects
Films like “Dune: Part Two” and “Wicked” dominate technical categories such as Production Design, Sound, and Visual Effects. These nominations reflect the remarkable craftsmanship that adds depth to cinematic storytelling.
Oscar Snubs and Surprises
The 2025 Oscars are not without surprises. Notable absences in major categories have sparked debates across social media, while some unexpected inclusions, like “Flow” in Animated Feature, have delighted fans.
What to Expect on Oscar Night
Hosted by Conan O’Brien, the 97th Academy Awards promises a mix of glamour, surprises, and memorable moments. The ceremony will be broadcast live on ABC and streamed on Hulu, bringing movie lovers worldwide together to celebrate cinematic excellence.
Key Nominations at a Glance
Best Picture
- “Emilia Pérez”
- “The Brutalist”
- “Wicked”
- “Dune: Part Two”
Best Actor
- Adrien Brody (“The Brutalist”)
- Timothée Chalamet (“A Complete Unknown”)
Best Actress
- Cynthia Erivo (“Wicked”)
- Fernanda Torres (“I’m Still Here”)
Best Director
- Jacques Audiard (“Emilia Pérez”)
- Coralie Fargeat (“The Substance”)
A Celebration of Excellence
The 2025 Oscar nominations showcase the industry’s best, setting the stage for a night of celebration and recognition. From the innovative storytelling of “Emilia Pérez” to the technical brilliance of “Dune: Part Two,” these films have left a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike.
Mark your calendars for March 2, 2025, as the world tunes in to honor the magic of cinema at the 97th Academy Awards. Stay tuned for more updates and insights into the year’s most anticipated event in entertainment!
2025 Oscar Nominations: See the Full List – The New York Times
