In a dazzling display of Hollywood’s finest, over 200 Oscar nominees gathered at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles on February 25, 2025, for an exclusive dinner and the much-anticipated class photo.
This grand tradition, typically celebrated with a luncheon, took on a more intimate feel this year after being rescheduled due to the recent Southern California wildfires.
The evening was a testament to cinematic excellence, with nominees from various categories mingling in a spirit of camaraderie. Best Actor contender Timothée Chalamet, recognized for his transformative performance in A Complete Unknown, was spotted in deep conversation with fellow nominee Adrien Brody. Meanwhile, first-time nominees Ariana Grande (Wicked) and Demi Moore (The Substance) made stunning entrances, drawing admiration from both peers and fans alike.
The red carpet exuded warmth and celebration, as Demi Moore, Zoe Saldaña, and Cynthia Erivo shared heartfelt embraces, posing for cameras in a show of unity. Ariana Grande turned heads in a striking black gown with feathered accents, a nod to her Wicked character, Glinda.
Academy President Janet Yang addressed the nominees, acknowledging the resilience of the film industry and emphasizing the power of storytelling in challenging times. She also offered a lighthearted reminder for winners to keep their acceptance speeches within the 45-second time limit, a subtle nod to the often lengthy award show moments.
Despite the star-studded turnout, some notable figures were absent, including Elton John, Ralph Fiennes, and Karla Sofía Gascón, the latter of whom has recently faced controversy.
As the evening concluded, the traditional class photo captured the essence of this year’s diverse and dynamic group of nominees. With excitement building for the 97th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O’Brien on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, the stage is set for a night that promises to celebrate the best of cinema.
