2025 Oscars Recap: "Anora" Wins Best Picture, Takes Home Five Academy Awards

Image credits: Variety

The 97th Academy Awards took place on Sunday, with "Anora" winning the top prize of Best Picture, as well as four other Oscars. The film, directed by Sean Baker, tells the story of a Brooklyn sex worker who falls in love with the son of a Russian oligarch. Baker won awards for Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Film Editing, making him the second person to win four Oscars in one night.

Other big winners of the night included "The Brutalist," which won three awards, including Best Actor for Adrien Brody and Best Cinematography. "Wicked" won two awards, including Best Costume Design and Best Production Design. The film's stars, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, performed at the ceremony, singing songs from the movie. The Academy also paid tribute to the James Bond franchise, with a medley of Bond themes performed by Doja Cat, Lisa, and Raye.

The ceremony also included a tribute to the late Gene Hackman, who was found dead at his home last week. Morgan Freeman introduced the In Memoriam segment, which honored Hackman and other industry professionals who passed away in the past year. The film industry came together to support those affected by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles, with a fundraiser taking place during the ceremony. Conan O'Brien hosted the event, which included performances and presentations by various celebrities.

The winners of the night included Mikey Madison, who won Best Actress for her role in "Anora," and Kieran Culkin, who won Best Supporting Actor for his role in "A Real Pain." The ceremony also included a performance by the cast of "Wicked," as well as a tribute to the James Bond franchise. The awards season has been marked by controversy, with "Emilia Pérez" star Karla Sofía Gascón facing backlash for past social media comments.

Despite the controversy, the ceremony was a celebration of the best in film, with many winners expressing their gratitude and dedication to their craft. The night included many memorable moments, from the performances to the acceptance speeches. The 97th Academy Awards will be remembered as a night of glamour and excitement, with many talented individuals being recognized for their work in the film industry.