The 97th Academy Awards, commonly known as the 2025 Oscars, was a night of glitz, glamour, and groundbreaking achievements.
Held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on March 2, 2025, the ceremony honored the best in filmmaking from the past year. Hosted by Conan O’Brien, the event brought together Hollywood’s biggest stars, with “Anora” emerging as the biggest winner of the night.
Biggest Winners of the Night
Sean Baker’s “Anora” stole the show, winning Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress, making it one of the most celebrated films of the night. The film, which tells the gripping story of a young woman navigating the complexities of life and love, resonated with both audiences and critics alike.
Other standout winners included:
Best Actor: Adrien Brody for The Brutalist
Best Actress: Mikey Madison for Anora
Best Supporting Actor: Kieran Culkin
Best Supporting Actress: Zoe Saldaña for Emilia Pérez
Notable Firsts and Historic Moments
This year’s Oscars made history with Paul Tazewell becoming the first Black man to win Best Costume Design for his work in Wicked. Zoe Saldaña’s win for Emilia Pérez also marked a milestone in representation for Latina actresses in Hollywood.
Meanwhile, the Best International Feature Film category saw I’m Still Here take the award, continuing the trend of foreign-language films gaining global recognition. The Best Animated Feature Film went to Flow, showcasing the industry’s push for unique and thought-provoking animation.
Memorable Performances and Surprises
The ceremony was packed with breathtaking musical performances, including a powerful live rendition of the Best Original Song nominee from Wicked. Fans were also treated to an emotional speech from Sean Baker, whose win for Best Director solidified his status as one of Hollywood’s most visionary filmmakers.
The Legacy of the 2025 Oscars
Beyond the awards, the 2025 Oscars underscored the changing landscape of the film industry, with increased diversity and recognition for international and independent films. This year’s ceremony proved that the Academy is evolving, embracing fresh voices and bold storytelling.
With record-breaking wins, unexpected upsets, and heartwarming moments, the 97th Academy Awards left a lasting impact, setting the stage for even more innovation in the years to come.