The 97th Academy Awards: A Night of Glamour and Triumph
The Big Winners of the Night
The 97th Academy Awards, held on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, was a night filled with excitement and celebration. The ceremony, hosted by the charismatic Conan O’Brien, brought together Hollywood’s elite to honor the best in film. The evening’s top honor, Best Picture, went to Anora, a film that captivated audiences and critics alike. Sean Baker, the mastermind behind Anora, also took home the award for Best Director, solidifying his place as one of cinema’s most talented filmmakers. The night was also marked by standout performances, with Adrien Brody earning the Best Actor award for his compelling role in The Brutalist and Mikey Madison dazzling audiences with her performance in Anora, which earned her the Best Actress title. The supporting categories were equally impressive, with Zoë Saldaña and Kieran Culkin winning for their roles in Emilia Pérez and A Real Pain, respectively.
A Night of Tributes and Celebration
This year’s Oscars was not just about celebrating cinematic achievements; it also paid a heartfelt tribute to the resilience of Los Angeles. The ceremony honored the city’s strength in the face of the devastating Southern California wildfires, which had a profound impact on the community. The event, aired live on ABC and streamed for the first time on Hulu, brought people together, offering a moment of unity and hope. The choice to stream the ceremony on Hulu marked a significant step towards inclusivity, allowing a broader audience to participate in the celebration of film excellence.
Behind the Cameras: Outstanding Filmmakers Honored
The technical and artistic brilliance behind the films was also recognized, with several filmmakers receiving well-deserved accolades. The Best Original Score was awarded to Daniel Blumberg for The Brutalist, while the Best Cinematography award went to Lol Crawley for the same film. Dune: Part Two impressed in the visual effects category, and its sound design also earned a win. The Best International Feature Film was awarded to I’m Still Here from Brazil, highlighting the diversity and richness of global cinema. These awards underscored the talent and dedication of the individuals who bring stories to life on the silver screen.
Performance and Music Shine
The ceremony was also a celebration of exceptional performances and music. Adrien Brody’s portrayal in The Brutalist and Mikey Madison’s role in Anora were more than deserving of their respective awards. The supporting categories saw Zoë Saldaña and Kieran Culkin take home Oscars, proving their versatility and depth as actors. The Best Original Song went to "El Mal" from Emilia Pérez, a testament to the power of music in film. These wins not only celebrated individual achievements but also the collaborative spirit that makes cinema so powerful.
Excellence in Craftsmanship
The Oscars also recognized excellence in various craft categories, showcasing the meticulous work that goes into filmmaking. Wicked won for Best Production Design and Costume Design, while The Substance took home the award for Best Makeup and Hairstyling. The Best Adapted Screenplay was awarded to Conclave, and Sean Baker’s original screenplay for Anora earned him another accolade. These wins highlighted the dedication and creativity of the crews and teams that are essential to the filmmaking process.
A Historic Night in Oscar History
The 97th Academy Awards was a night to remember, marked by memorable moments and historic wins. The ceremony not only celebrated the past year’s films but also looked toward the future, embracing new ways to connect with audiences through streaming. The resilience of Los Angeles and the power of cinema were at the heart of the event, reminding us all of the impact of film on our lives. As the Hollywood community continues to evolve, nights like these serve as a testament to its enduring magic and relevance.
