Who Were The Big Winners At The 2025 Oscars?
The 97th Academy Awards, held on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles, was a night filled with excitement, drama, and groundbreaking wins. Hosted by Conan O'Brien, the event captured the essence of the ever-evolving world of cinema. The evening highlighted some remarkable performances and films, making it a night to remember. Below are the key winners of the 2025 Oscars.
Best Picture: "Anora"
The biggest award of the night, Best Picture, was awarded to "Anora", a powerful film directed by Sean Baker. "Anora" not only captivated audiences but also showcased the strength of independent cinema in the modern film landscape. The film’s sweeping success at the Oscars spoke to its critical acclaim and the remarkable performances by the cast, including Best Actress winner Mikey Madison and Best Supporting Actor nominee Kieran Culkin.
Best Director: Sean Baker
Sean Baker, the visionary director behind "Anora", took home the Oscar for Best Director. His ability to create a compelling and emotionally rich narrative, combined with his unique cinematic style, was praised by critics and audiences alike. His win solidified his reputation as one of the most innovative filmmakers of his generation, and "Anora" was recognized for its outstanding direction across multiple categories.
Best Actor: Adrien Brody
Adrien Brody won Best Actor for his powerful and gripping performance in "The Brutalist." Brody’s portrayal of a tormented and complex character marked a return to form for the actor, who has been a Hollywood staple for years. His emotional depth and nuanced performance resonated with both critics and audiences, earning him his second Academy Award after his previous win for The Pianist in 2003.
Best Actress: Mikey Madison
Mikey Madison’s performance in "Anora" earned her the coveted Best Actress Oscar. Her portrayal of a determined and multifaceted character stood out in a year filled with outstanding female performances. Madison’s win was celebrated as a breakthrough moment in her career, further establishing her as one of Hollywood’s brightest new stars.
Best Supporting Actor: Kieran Culkin
Kieran Culkin won Best Supporting Actor for his role in "A Real Pain." Culkin, known for his versatile performances across both television and film, earned widespread praise for his nuanced portrayal of a character caught in a complicated emotional journey. His Oscar win added another significant milestone to his career, following his success on TV in Succession.
Best Supporting Actress: Zoe Saldaña
Zoe Saldaña won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for her role in "Emilia Pérez." Despite some earlier controversies surrounding the film's portrayal of Mexicans, Saldaña’s performance was widely praised for its depth and authenticity. Saldaña’s win also highlighted the increasing recognition of Latinx talent in Hollywood, a significant achievement for both her and the industry.
A Night of Diverse Wins
The 2025 Oscars were a celebration of both established stars and new faces, with films like "Anora" and "The Brutalist" dominating the ceremony. "Anora"’s success was a defining moment of the night, earning awards across major categories, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress. Meanwhile, performances by actors like Adrien Brody, Kieran Culkin, and Zoe Saldaña stood out as exemplary in their respective categories.
The night also showcased how Hollywood is evolving in terms of the stories being told and the talents being recognized. Films from a variety of genres—dramas, thrillers, and international films—were acknowledged, reflecting the broad and diverse nature of cinema in 2025.
As the night came to a close, the 2025 Oscars left a lasting impression on both industry professionals and film lovers. The ceremony celebrated the unique ability of cinema to tell diverse and impactful stories, with the winners serving as representatives of the changing landscape of Hollywood. From powerful performances to innovative direction, the 2025 Academy Awards highlighted the incredible talent that is shaping the future of film.
