The 97th Academy Awards, held on March 2, 2025, celebrated a year of cinematic brilliance, with standout films and performances taking center stage. Hosted by Conan O’Brien at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, the evening was filled with memorable moments, historic wins, and a few surprises.
Big Winners of the Night
- Anora: Emerging as the night’s biggest winner, Anora clinched five Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director for Sean Baker, and Best Actress for Mikey Madison. The film’s vivid portrayal of life in Brooklyn captivated audiences and critics alike.
- Adrien Brody: Delivering a powerful performance in The Brutalist, Adrien Brody secured the Best Actor award, further cementing his status as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors.
- Zoe Saldaña: In a historic win, Zoe Saldaña became the first American of Dominican origin to win an Oscar, taking home Best Supporting Actress for her role in Emilia Pérez. In her heartfelt speech, she honored her family’s immigrant journey and expressed pride in her heritage.
Unforgettable Performances
- Mikey Madison: Winning Best Actress for her portrayal in Anora, Mikey Madison’s performance brought raw emotion to the screen, portraying a character who struggles with personal and professional challenges in an ever-changing world. Her performance was widely hailed for its depth and authenticity.
- Kieran Culkin: Winning Best Supporting Actor for his gripping role in A Real Pain, Kieran Culkin delivered a standout performance as a troubled man navigating family drama and inner turmoil, earning widespread acclaim for his powerful portrayal.
Where to Watch the Oscar-Winning Films
For those eager to experience these acclaimed movies, here’s where you can watch them:
- Anora: Available for digital rental or purchase on platforms like Apple TV and Amazon.
- The Brutalist: Currently showing in theaters nationwide.
- Emilia Pérez: Streaming on Netflix, this film offers a compelling narrative complemented by stellar performances.
- Flow: You can stream this groundbreaking animated feature on Max or rent it on Prime Video and Apple TV.
- Wicked: Available for digital rental or purchase, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in this enchanting musical adaptation.
Historic Moments
The 2025 Oscars were not just about awards but also about representation and breaking new ground:
- Latvia’s First Oscar: Flow brought home Latvia’s first Academy Award, highlighting the global nature of cinematic storytelling.
- Paul Tazewell’s Milestone: His win as the first Black man for Best Costume Design showcases the evolving inclusivity within the industry.
The 2025 Academy Awards highlighted a diverse range of stories and talents, reflecting the evolving landscape of cinema. From Anora’s sweeping success to historic individual achievements, this year’s Oscars offered audiences a rich tapestry of films to explore. Be sure to watch these celebrated movies and witness the performances that captivated both the Academy and viewers worldwide.
