Oscar Nominations 2025: Who's In, Who’s Out, and All the Fun Details You Need to Know
The excitement is building as the 2025 Academy Award nominations have been announced, and the race to win Hollywood’s most prestigious honour is now in full swing. From the latest crop of Best Picture contenders to breakout performances and some unexpected surprises, this year’s nominations are already setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling Oscar season. The world is watching closely, and we’re here to break it all down for you.
Timothée Chalamet: The Oscars' Youngest Two-Time Best Actor Nominee Since James Dean
Timothée Chalamet continues to leave his mark on the film industry. His second Best Actor nomination, this time for his portrayal of Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown, solidifies his place as one of Hollywood’s brightest stars. At just 29, Chalamet is the youngest man to receive two Best Actor nominations before turning 30—following in the footsteps of the iconic James Dean, who tragically died young at the age of 24. Dean, who was nominated for East of Eden and Giant, left an indelible legacy, and Chalamet’s achievement echoes that same level of impact.
But Chalamet’s achievements don’t end with a nomination. If he takes home the Best Actor Oscar, he will surpass Adrien Brody, who won the award at 29 for The Pianist in 2003. It’s a momentous occasion, as it would make Chalamet the youngest actor ever to win the award, a feat that would firmly establish his place in Oscar history.
His role as Bob Dylan is generating plenty of buzz. In A Complete Unknown, Chalamet transforms into the legendary singer-songwriter during his rise to fame in the early 1960s. The film, which chronicles Dylan’s journey through the New York music scene, features an electrifying performance by Chalamet—one that is being praised for its depth, authenticity, and dedication. With his talent and charm, it’s clear that Chalamet is only just beginning to leave a lasting impact on Hollywood.
Emilia Pérez: The Breakout Film with 13 Nominations
Riding high on the wave of success, Emilia Pérez has captured the imagination of critics and audiences alike. With an astonishing 13 nominations, this Netflix musical has emerged as the biggest contender this year, earning nods in major categories like Best Picture, Best Director (Jacques Audiard), and Best Actress. The film has quickly become the talk of the town, with its bold narrative and stunning performances making it an Oscar frontrunner.
The story of Emilia Pérez is a genre-defying exploration of four women pursuing happiness, told through a dreamlike combination of original songs and dance. Critics are calling it audacious, thrilling, and refreshingly original. The nominations have not only solidified its status as a cinematic triumph but have also propelled it to the forefront of Oscar discussions. Keep an eye out for Emilia Pérez during the ceremony as it’s expected to dominate the night with wins in multiple categories.
The film has also stirred conversations about its groundbreaking approach to storytelling, blending musical theatre with cinematic techniques in a way that has never been done before. Whether you’re a fan of musicals or simply someone who appreciates innovative filmmaking, Emilia Pérez is certainly a film that demands attention.
Dune: Part Two and Wicked: The Blockbusters With Oscar Dreams
It’s no surprise that both Dune: Part Two and Wicked are earning Oscar nominations. These blockbuster films have captured the hearts of audiences around the world, and now they’re proving they have the artistic merit to compete with the best of them at the Oscars.
Dune: Part Two continues the epic journey of Paul Atreides (played by Timothée Chalamet), who navigates the complexities of revenge, survival, and his destiny on the desert planet Arrakis. The film has earned multiple nominations, including Best Picture, Best Cinematography, and Best Visual Effects, making it a strong contender in technical categories. Dune fans are hoping it will dominate in these areas and take home the Oscar for Best Picture as well, especially considering how the film's stunning visuals and immersive world-building have been praised by critics.
Meanwhile, Wicked is a beloved musical that’s making its way to the big screen, bringing the untold story of the witches of Oz to a new generation. With an impressive 10 nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actress (Idina Menzel), and Best Original Song, Wicked is expected to be a strong contender in both the technical and artistic categories. Fans of the Broadway musical will be excited to see how the iconic story and unforgettable music are brought to life on screen.
Wicked follows the unlikely friendship between Glinda, the Good Witch, and Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, exploring their contrasting personalities and destinies. With a stellar cast, including Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, and dazzling visuals, the film promises to be a showstopper on Oscar night.
The Brutalist and The Substance: Indie Films That Made a Mark
For lovers of dark, thought-provoking cinema, The Brutalist and The Substance are two films that have made their mark with strong performances and compelling narratives.
The Brutalist is a powerful drama set in post-war Europe and follows the life of László Toth, a visionary architect who tries to rebuild his life in America. With impressive performances from Adrien Brody and a riveting story, the film has received nominations in major categories, including Best Picture and Best Actor. It’s a tense, atmospheric film that tackles themes of power, legacy, and the pursuit of creative freedom.
On the other hand, The Substance is a bold, feminist film by director Coralie Fargeat, which critiques the toxic beauty industry. With Demi Moore delivering a career-best performance, The Substance has captured the attention of critics and is nominated for several categories, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress. The film’s raw intensity and satirical edge have made it a standout in the indie film scene, and its nominations reflect the growing interest in films that challenge societal norms.
Related: BAFTA 2025: Nominations Unveiled – Which Films and Stars Are Dominating?
Surprises, Snubs, and Who’s Missing?
The Oscars always deliver a few surprises, and this year is no different. While many were expecting Barbie to be a serious contender, it ultimately missed out on major nominations. Despite a star-studded cast and a lot of buzz, the film didn’t manage to land a Best Picture nomination, leaving some fans disappointed.
Another notable surprise is The Last Voyage of the Demeter, a horror film that had a lot of initial buzz but didn’t make the cut. Fans of the film were hoping for a nomination in the Best Visual Effects category, but unfortunately, it was snubbed.
However, there were plenty of pleasant surprises as well, with films like The Substance and The Brutalist breaking through in unexpected ways. The Academy has shown that it’s willing to embrace unconventional narratives and performances that push boundaries.
Conan O’Brien: Hosting the Oscars
Comedian Conan O’Brien is stepping into the role of host for the 2025 Academy Awards, and fans are already anticipating a night of laughter, wit, and sharp commentary. O’Brien, known for his hilarious late-night antics, will bring his signature humour to the Oscars stage, and it’s sure to be a refreshing change from the usual Oscar ceremonies. His self-deprecating humour and quick wit will no doubt keep the audience entertained, and we can expect a night full of funny moments, memorable one-liners, and perhaps a few unexpected twists.
How to Watch the Oscars
The 2025 Academy Awards will be broadcast live on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at 7 p.m. ET from the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood. The ceremony will be available to watch on ABC, Hulu, and various streaming platforms, so you won’t have to miss a moment of the excitement. Be sure to mark your calendars, prepare your predictions, and get ready for an unforgettable night as Hollywood’s best and brightest compete for Oscar glory.
