The 2025 Oscars: A Night of Surprises and Triumphs
The 97th Academy Awards delivered an evening filled with unexpected victories and memorable moments. Here's a comprehensive list of the winners, along with brief descriptions of each film:
Best Picture
Anora – A low-budget comedy that captivated audiences with its heartfelt storytelling, "Anora" follows the journey of a young woman navigating life's challenges with resilience and humor.
Best Actress
Mikey Madison for Anora – Portraying the titular character, Madison delivers a nuanced performance that captures the essence of a woman striving for authenticity in a complex world.
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Best Actor
Adrien Brody for The Brutalist – In this historical drama, Brody portrays a visionary architect facing personal and professional challenges in post-war America.
Best Supporting Actress
Zoe Saldaña for Emilia Pérez – Saldaña plays Rita, a Mexico City lawyer aiding a cartel leader in an unexpected transformation, blending crime drama with musical elements.
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Best Supporting Actor
Kieran Culkin for A Real Pain – Culkin delivers a compelling performance in this drama about two cousins exploring their family history in Poland, confronting past traumas and personal identity.
Who did you expect to win and Oscar in 2025?
Best International Film
I'm Still Here – This poignant film tells the story of resilience and survival, focusing on individuals rebuilding their lives amidst adversity.
Best Documentary Feature
No Other Land – A powerful documentary shedding light on the struggles of displaced communities seeking identity and belonging.
Best Original Song
"El Mal" from Emilia Pérez – A captivating song that critiques societal norms, performed during a pivotal moment in the film.
Best Original Screenplay
Sean Baker for Anora – Baker's script offers a fresh perspective on everyday life, blending humor and pathos in a relatable narrative.
Best Adapted Screenplay
Peter Straughan for Conclave – An adaptation that delves into the intricacies of a papal election, revealing the personal dynamics behind closed doors.
Best Animated Film
Flow – An animated feature that explores environmental themes through the journey of a young girl discovering her connection to nature.
Best Visual Effects
Dune: Part Two – Recognized for its groundbreaking visual effects that bring the expansive universe of Arrakis to life.
Best Costume Design
Paul Tazewell for Wicked – Tazewell's designs reimagine the iconic looks of the beloved characters in this musical adaptation.
Best Cinematography
Lol Crawley for The Brutalist – Crawley's work captures the stark beauty and architectural grandeur central to the film's narrative.
Best Documentary Short Film
The Only Girl in the Orchestra – This short film tells the inspiring story of a young woman's determination to break gender barriers in classical music.
Best Sound
Dune: Part Two – Awarded for its immersive sound design that enhances the epic storytelling experience.
Best Production Design
Wicked – Celebrated for its imaginative and enchanting set designs that transport audiences to the magical land of Oz.
Best Makeup and Hairstyling
The Substance – Recognized for its transformative makeup and hairstyling that contribute to the film's eerie atmosphere.
Best Film Editing
Sean Baker for Anora – Baker's editing seamlessly blends humor and drama, enhancing the film's pacing and emotional impact.
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Elle Fanning
Best Live Action Short Film
I'm Not a Robot – A short film that humorously explores the complexities of human-robot relationships in a technologically advanced society.
Best Animated Short Film
In the Shadow of the Cypress – An animated short that tells a touching story of family and tradition set against the backdrop of a changing landscape.