Oscar Nominations 2025

Oscar Nominations 2025: A Year of Bold Choices and Political Narratives

The 2025 Oscar nominations have arrived, and they signal one of the most politically charged and diverse lineups in the Academy's history. From hard-hitting biopics to groundbreaking musicals, this year's nominees reflect a film industry unafraid to confront pressing global and social issues, offering audiences a mix of spectacle and substance.

"Emilia Pérez" Takes Center Stage

Leading the pack with an impressive 13 nominations, Emilia Pérez has cemented its place in Oscar history. Directed by Jacques Audiard, this French musical about a drug kingpin who undergoes gender-affirming surgery is a landmark achievement for representation. Karla Sofía Gascón, the film’s star, becomes the first openly transgender actor nominated for Best Actress. With nods for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay, alongside recognition for its show-stopping musical number "El Mal," Emilia Pérez exemplifies the Academy's embrace of bold storytelling.

Top Contenders: Politics and Power on the Big Screen

Hot on its heels are The Brutalist and Wicked, each with 10 nominations. Brady Corbet's The Brutalist explores the immigrant experience through the lens of a Hungarian-Jewish architect in post-World War II America. With nominations for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor (Adrien Brody), the film shines a light on themes of displacement and resilience.

Meanwhile, Wicked, Jon M. Chu’s adaptation of the Broadway sensation, dazzles with its critique of power and privilege. Starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, both nominated for acting awards, the prequel to The Wizard of Oz offers more than just vibrant musical numbers—it delves into the manipulative tactics of those in power.

A Year of Representation and Resonance

This year’s nominees highlight stories of marginalized communities and global struggles. Walter Salles’ Brazilian drama I’m Still Here defied expectations by earning nominations not only for Best International Feature but also for Best Picture. Fernanda Torres, portraying the wife of a political prisoner, garnered a Best Actress nomination, echoing her mother’s historic nod in 1999 for Central Station.

Other standout films include Anora by Sean Baker, a poignant look at the life of a New York sex worker, and Nickel Boys, adapted from Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel about a Florida reform school. Both films received Best Picture nods, with Nickel Boys also competing for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Surprises and Firsts

The ceremony promises historic moments, including Coralie Fargeat’s nomination for Best Director for her visceral body horror film The Substance. Demi Moore also received her first Oscar nomination for her role in the film, adding to its groundbreaking achievements.

Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong’s performances in The Apprentice, a biopic of Donald Trump’s early years, also drew attention, with the film courting controversy due to its unflinching portrayal of its subject.

The Political Tone of 2025

The nominations this year are marked by an unprecedented alignment with contemporary issues. Whether addressing gender identity, systemic racism, or the abuse of power, these films highlight the enduring connection between art and activism. Even blockbusters like Dune: Part Two venture beyond escapism, grappling with themes of religion and leadership.

What to Expect on Oscar Night

As the 97th Academy Awards approach, all eyes are on the winners—and their acceptance speeches. With a lineup so intertwined with today’s pressing debates, this year’s ceremony may break from tradition, offering more than just gratitude. Will winners seize the moment to amplify their messages?

The Oscars, hosted by Conan O’Brien, will air live on March 2, 2025, promising a night of glamour, political resonance, and celebration of cinematic excellence.

Full List of Best Picture Nominees:

• Anora
• The Brutalist
• A Complete Unknown
• Conclave
• Dune: Part Two
• Emilia Pérez
• I’m Still Here
• Nickel Boys
• The Substance
• Wicked

The 2025 Oscar nominations have been announced, showcasing a diverse array of films and historic milestones. Leading the pack is Jacques Audiard's Emilia Pérez, a musical about a transgender gangster, which garnered 13 nominations—the most ever for a non-English-language film. Notably, Karla Sofía Gascón's nomination for Best Actress marks the first time an openly transgender performer has been recognized in this category. 

Following closely are The Brutalist and Wicked, each with 10 nominations. The Brutalist, directed by Brady Corbet, delves into the immigrant experience through the story of a Hungarian-Jewish architect in post-World War II America. Wicked, the film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, explores themes of power and prejudice in the Land of Oz. 

Other notable nominees include A Complete Unknown and Conclave, each securing eight nominations. A Complete Unknown features Timothée Chalamet as a young Bob Dylan, while Conclave is a thriller centered on the election of a new pope. 

In the acting categories, Demi Moore received her first Oscar nomination for Best Actress in The Substance, and Fernanda Torres became the second Brazilian to be nominated for Best Actress, following her mother Fernanda Montenegro's 1999 nomination. 

The 97th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O'Brien, are scheduled for March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. This year's nominations reflect a significant shift towards inclusivity and recognition of diverse storytelling in cinema.