The 97th Academy Awards, held on March 2, 2025, showcased the film industry's finest talents and moments that ranged from inspiring to controversial. Here's a look at some of the standout highlights and lowlights from the evening.
Highlights
"Anora" Dominates the Night: The indie film "Anora" emerged as the biggest winner, securing five awards, including Best Picture, Best Director for Sean Baker, and Best Actress for Mikey Madison.
Kieran Culkin's Heartfelt Acceptance: Winning Best Supporting Actor for "A Real Pain," Kieran Culkin charmed the audience by humorously reminding his wife of her promise to expand their family if he won an Oscar.
"Wicked" Opens with a Bang: Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo delivered a show-stopping opening performance, blending classics like "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" and "Home," culminating in a powerful duet of "Defying Gravity."
Lowlights
Adrien Brody's Extended Speech: While honored with Best Actor for "The Brutalist," Adrien Brody's acceptance speech exceeded the allotted time, leading to awkward attempts by the orchestra to cue its end
James Bond Tribute Falls Flat: A tribute to the James Bond franchise, featuring performances by Blackpink's Lisa, Doja Cat, and Raye, was criticized for its lack of coherence and relevance, leaving many viewers puzzled.
In Memoriam Omissions: The segment honoring industry figures who passed away notably excluded actress Michelle Trachtenberg, sparking disappointment among fans and raising questions about the selection process.
The 2025 Oscars encapsulated the dynamic nature of Hollywood, blending moments of triumph with instances that sparked debate, reflecting the ever-evolving landscape of the film industry.
