Oscars 2025: Predictions and Highlights from the 97th Academy Awards

Image credits: GC Images

The 97th Academy Awards are just around the corner, and the excitement is building up. This year's Oscars have been marked by controversy, surprises, and a lot of buzz around the nominated films. Emilia Pérez, a Spanish-language musical, is leading the pack with 13 nominations, including best picture, best actress, and best supporting actress. However, its chances of sweeping the board have been damaged by offensive historic tweets from its star, Karla Sofía Gascón.

Meanwhile, Anora has been gaining momentum, with many predicting it to take home the best picture award. The film, which tells the story of a young woman who falls in love with the son of a wealthy Russian, has been described as a modern-day Pretty Woman. Its star, Mikey Madison, has also been making waves, with a surprise win at the Baftas and a nomination for best actress. Other top contenders include The Brutalist, Wicked, Conclave, and Dune: Part Two.

The Oscars ceremony will be hosted by US comedian Conan O'Brien, who replaces Jimmy Kimmel this year. The show will feature performances by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, as well as other notable artists. The ceremony will also pay tribute to the devastating wildfires that have affected Los Angeles, with a moment of recognition and support for the victims. Presenters include Halle Berry, Whoopi Goldberg, Robert Downey Jr, and Emma Stone, among others.

Here are some of the major nominees and contenders to look out for:

• Best Picture: Emilia Pérez, Anora, The Brutalist, Wicked, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, A Complete Unknown, I'm Still Here, Nickel Boys
• Best Actress: Karla Sofía Gascón (Emilia Pérez), Mikey Madison (Anora), Demi Moore (The Substance), Cynthia Erivo (Wicked)
• Best Actor: Adrien Brody (The Brutalist), Timothée Chalamet (A Complete Unknown), Ralph Fiennes (Conclave), Colman Domingo (Sing Sing)
• Best Supporting Actress: Zoe Saldaña (Emilia Pérez), Felicity Jones (The Brutalist), Ariana Grande (Wicked)
• Best Supporting Actor: Kieran Culkin (A Real Pain), Jeremy Strong (The Apprentice), Sebastian Stan (The Apprentice)

In terms of diversity and representation, this year's Oscars have made some progress, with people of color nominated in both the best actress and best actor categories. However, there is still a long way to go, with only one woman nominated for best director and a lack of representation in other categories. As April Reign, founder of the #OscarsSoWhite movement, said, "Has there been progress, yes. Has there been enough? Absolutely not."