The 97th Academy Awards: A Night of Surprises, Sweeps, and Historic Wins
Hollywood, March 2, 2025 — The 97th Academy Awards unfolded last night, delivering a blend of expected triumphs, shocking upsets, and heartfelt speeches. From Sean Baker’s historic sweep with “Anora” to Conan O’Brien’s debut as host, the evening was a testament to the magic of cinema. Let’s dive into the highlights and celebrate the winners across all categories.
Best Picture: “Anora” Takes the Crown
The night’s most coveted award went to “Anora,” with producers Alex Coco, Samantha Quan, and Sean Baker accepting the honor. This win solidified “Anora” as the standout film of the year.
Acting Categories: Celebrating Stellar Performances
- Best Actor: Adrien Brody clinched this award for his role in “The Brutalist,” marking a significant addition to his illustrious career.
- Best Actress: Mikey Madison’s portrayal in “Anora” earned her this accolade, underscoring her exceptional talent.
- Best Supporting Actor: Kieran Culkin’s performance in “A Real Pain” garnered him this honor, highlighting his versatility as an actor.
- Best Supporting Actress: Zoe Saldaña’s role in “Emilia Pérez” earned her this award, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Directing and Writing: Recognizing Visionaries
- Best Director: Sean Baker’s masterful direction of “Anora” earned him this prestigious award.
- Best Original Screenplay: Sean Baker also took home this award for “Anora,” showcasing his storytelling prowess.
- Best Adapted Screenplay: James Mangold’s adaptation for “A Complete Unknown” was honored in this category, reflecting his skill in bringing complex narratives to the screen. Academy Awards
Technical Categories: Crafting Cinematic Excellence
- Best Cinematography: Lol Crawley’s work in “The Brutalist” was recognized for its visual brilliance. Academy Awards
- Best Film Editing: Sean Baker’s editing of “Anora” showcased his multifaceted talent, earning him this award.
- Best Production Design: The team behind “Wicked” was honored for creating immersive environments that captivated audiences.
- Best Costume Design: Paul Tazewell’s designs for “Wicked” not only dazzled but also made history, as he became the first Black man to win in this category.
- Best Makeup and Hairstyling: The creative team of Pierre-Olivier Persin, Stéphanie Guillon, and Marilyne Scarselli was recognized for their transformative work in “The Substance.” Academy Awards
- Best Sound: The auditory excellence of “Dune: Part Two” was acknowledged with this award.
- Best Visual Effects: The visual spectacle of “Dune: Part Two” earned it this accolade, cementing its status as a technical marvel.
Music Categories: Harmonizing Cinema
- Best Original Score: Daniel Blumberg’s composition for “The Brutalist” resonated with audiences and critics alike, earning him this award. Academy Awards
- Best Original Song: “El Mal” from “Emilia Pérez,” with music by Clément Ducol and Camille, captivated listeners and secured this honor.
Animated and International Films: Celebrating Global Stories
- Best Animated Feature Film: “Flow” flowed seamlessly to victory, enchanting viewers with its storytelling and artistry.
- Best International Feature Film: Brazil’s “I’m Still Here” showcased compelling narratives that transcended borders, earning it this award.
Documentary Films: Illuminating Realities
- Best Documentary Feature: “No Other Land” provided profound insights, earning recognition in this category.
- Best Documentary Short Film: “The Only Girl in the Orchestra” told a powerful story in a concise format, securing this award.
Short Films: Brief Narratives with Lasting Impact
- Best Animated Short Film: “In the Shadow of the Cypress” stood out for its creativity and emotional depth.
- Best Live Action Short Film: “The Only Girl in the Orchestra” captivated audiences with its compelling storytelling, earning it this accolade.
The 97th Academy Awards celebrated the diverse talents and stories that define cinema today. From groundbreaking wins to touching tributes, the evening was a testament to the enduring power of film.
For a complete list of winners and more details, visit the official Oscars website.
