The 97th Academy Awards, set for March 2, 2025, at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, promise an evening filled with groundbreaking achievements and memorable moments. This year’s ceremony not only celebrates the finest films of 2024 but also introduces several firsts that mark a new era in the Oscars’ storied history.
Table of Contents
Conan O’Brien Takes the Helm
For the first time, comedian Conan O’Brien will host the Academy Awards. Known for his sharp wit and dynamic stage presence, O’Brien’s debut is highly anticipated. Reflecting on this opportunity, he remarked, “Hosting the Oscars has always been a dream of mine. I’m ready to bring some fun to Hollywood’s biggest night.”
Leading the Nominations: ‘Emilia Pérez’
Jacques Audiard’s musical drama, Emilia Pérez, leads the pack with 13 nominations. The film tells the compelling story of a drug lord who undergoes gender transition to start anew. This narrative has resonated with audiences and critics alike, earning nods in categories such as Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress for Karla Sofía Gascón. Gascón’s nomination is particularly historic, as she becomes the first openly transgender performer to be recognized in an acting category.
Best Picture Nominees: A Diverse Lineup
The competition for Best Picture is fierce, featuring a diverse array of films:
| Film Title | Director |
|---|---|
| Emilia Pérez | Jacques Audiard |
| The Brutalist | Brady Corbet |
| Conclave | Edward Berger |
| Anora | Sean Baker |
| Wicked | Jon M. Chu |
| A Complete Unknown | James Mangold |
| Dune: Part Two | Denis Villeneuve |
| I’m Still Here | João Paulo Miranda Maria |
| Nickel Boys | Barry Jenkins |
Notable Highlights and Firsts
This year’s Oscars are marked by several significant milestones:
- Historic Nominations: Emilia Pérez has set a record for the most nominations received by a non-English-language film, surpassing previous titles like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Roma.
- Transgender Representation: Karla Sofía Gascón’s Best Actress nomination for her role in Emilia Pérez marks the first time an openly transgender performer has been recognized in an acting category.
- Young Talent: At 29, Timothée Chalamet becomes the youngest two-time Best Actor nominee since James Dean, earning recognition for his role in A Complete Unknown.
Ceremony Adjustments Amidst Challenges
The lead-up to the 2025 Oscars has been eventful. Los Angeles faced devastating wildfires, impacting several celebrities and studios. These events prompted the Academy to extend voting deadlines and adjust the ceremony’s format. Notably, live performances for Best Original Song have been replaced with reflections from the songwriters.
How to Watch
For the first time, the Oscars will be streamed live on Hulu, in addition to the traditional broadcast on ABC. This move aims to make the ceremony more accessible to a broader audience. The event begins at 7 p.m. ET, with a red carpet pre-show offering viewers a glimpse of their favorite stars as they arrive.
Anticipated Performances and Presenters
While live musical performances for Best Original Song have been omitted this year, audiences can look forward to a special performance from the cast of Wicked, featuring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. Additionally, a lineup of esteemed presenters, including Miley Cyrus and Miles Teller, will grace the stage, adding to the evening’s allure.
Conclusion
The Academy Awards 2025 are poised to be a landmark event, celebrating cinematic excellence and embracing diversity. As the film industry navigates unprecedented challenges, this year’s Oscars stand as a testament to resilience, creativity, and the unifying power of storytelling. Viewers worldwide eagerly await the unveiling of winners and the unforgettable moments that will define this historic night.