Starry Night at the 97th Annual Academy Awards
The 97th annual Academy Awards, held on Sunday, March 2, 2025, was a night of glamour and celebration as Hollywood’s brightest stars gathered to honor the best films and performances of the year. Broadcast live on ABC stations and various international outlets, the event kicked off at 7 p.m. EST (4 p.m. PST) and was also streamed live on platforms like Hulu, Hulu Live TV, YouTubeTV, AT&T TV, and FuboTV. For those who missed the live broadcast, the show was made available to stream the next day on ABC.com and Hulu.
This year’s ceremony, hosted by the witty and charming Conan O’Brien, took place at the iconic Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles. The venue held special significance, as it came less than two months after devastating wildfires had swept through the L.A. area. Despite the challenges, the Oscars remained a beacon of hope and celebration, bringing together talent from around the world to recognize cinematic excellence.
A Historic Lineup of Nominees
The competition at the 97th Oscars was fierce, with Netflix’s Emilia Pérez leading the pack with an impressive 13 nominations. This crime musical, centered around a cartel leader who has transitioned, was just one short of tying the record for the most nominations for a single film—a record held by Titanic, All About Eve, and La La Land. While Emilia Pérez didn’t sweep the night, it did take home two well-deserved wins.
In the Best Picture category, Emilia Pérez faced stiff competition from films like The Brutalist, Wicked, The Substance, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Anora, Dune: Part Two, Nickel Boys, and I’m Still Here. Ultimately, the award went to Anora, a film that captivated audiences and critics alike.
The acting categories were equally thrilling, with nominees showcasing incredible talent. In the Best Actor category, Adrien Brody won for his stellar performance in The Brutalist, beating out Timothée Chalamet (A Complete Unknown), Colman Domingo (Sing Sing), Ralph Fiennes (Conclave), and Sebastian Stan (The Apprentice). Meanwhile, the Best Actress award went to Mikey Madison for her breathtaking performance in Anora. Other nominees in the category included Cynthia Erivo (Wicked), Karla Sofía Gascón (Emilia Pérez), Demi Moore (The Substance), and Fernanda Torres (I’m Still Here).
Conan O’Brien Brings Laughter and Light-hearted Fun
Taking over hosting duties from Jimmy Kimmel, who had helmed the Oscars four times previously, Conan O’Brien brought his signature wit and charm to the stage. Known for his quick humor and irreverent style, O’Brien delighted the audience with his opening remarks, quipping, “America demanded it, and now it’s happening: Taco Bell’s new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme. In other news, I’m hosting the Oscars.” His lighthearted approach set the tone for an evening filled with celebration and camaraderie.
Breaking Down Barriers and Celebrating Diversity
The 97th Oscars were also a testament to the growing diversity in Hollywood. Emilia Pérez, a Netflix original film, made history with its 13 nominations, highlighting the importance of representation in storytelling. The movie’s premise, centered around a cartel leader who has transitioned, offered a fresh and bold narrative that resonated with audiences worldwide.
Similarly, the inclusion of films like Wicked and The Brutalist in the Best Picture category underscored the Academy’s commitment to recognizing a wide range of genres and perspectives. While Anora ultimately took home the top prize, the mere presence of these films in the lineup was a victory in itself, proving that there is room for innovation and diversity in the world of cinema.
A Night to Remember Beyond the Awards
The Oscars are more than just an awards ceremony; they are a celebration of artistry, creativity, and the shared human experiences that films bring to life. From the stunning red-carpet looks to the heartfelt acceptance speeches, the 97th Academy Awards were a night of magic and inspiration.
As the world continues to navigate challenges and uncertainties, the Oscars remind us of the power of storytelling to unite, uplift, and inspire. Whether you’re a lifelong cinephile or a casual moviegoer, the 97th Oscars had something for everyone, leaving viewers with a renewed appreciation for the art of filmmaking and the incredible talent behind it.
In the end, the 97th Academy Awards were not just about the winners; they were about the stories that moved us, the performances that captivated us, and the shared joy of celebrating the magic of cinema. Here’s to another year of unforgettable movies and the talented individuals who bring them to life!
