The 2025 Academy Awards, held shortly after the SAG Awards, brought an array of surprises that left many industry insiders and fans alike in awe. Speculation had been rife following the SAG Awards, where victories for Anora, Mikey Madison, and Adrien Brody led to doubts about their Oscar prospects. However, the Oscars proved to be a different story. Sean Baker's critically acclaimed film claimed the best picture award, while Madison emerged as a surprise winner for best actress, overshadowing veteran Demi Moore. Meanwhile, Brody secured the best actor trophy over Timothée Chalamet. The evening also saw unexpected outcomes for other films, with some high-profile contenders underperforming and others exceeding expectations.
Key Moments from the 2025 Oscars
In the heart of Hollywood’s glittering season, the 2025 Oscars unfolded on a memorable Sunday night. The event was marked by several twists that defied pre-ceremony predictions. Despite strong showings at the SAG Awards, Conclave, The Substance, and A Complete Unknown failed to replicate their success. Conclave, which had been tipped for multiple wins, only managed to secure one award for best adapted screenplay. Similarly, The Substance won just one prize for makeup and hairstyling, while A Complete Unknown, despite its eight nominations, left empty-handed. Bob Dylan, the subject of the latter film, wisely chose not to attend the ceremony, given his biopic's lackluster performance.
The night also witnessed the triumph of indie animated film Flow, which beat out studio blockbusters like The Wild Robot and Inside Out 2. Another highlight was Netflix’s musical Emilia Pérez, which faced controversy earlier in the year but still managed to claim two awards: best supporting actress for Zoe Saldaña and best original song for “El Mal.” Other films, such as Sing Sing, Nickel Boys, and The Apprentice, were not as fortunate, failing to secure any wins despite multiple nominations.
Perhaps one of the most surprising outcomes was the shutout for Nosferatu, which had garnered four nominations but ended up leaving the ceremony without a single win. In contrast, The Brutalist and Wicked each took home two awards, though the latter's wins were confined to craft categories. The evening was rounded off with a spectacular performance by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, who sang a medley of songs, including the iconic “Defying Gravity” from Wicked.
From a journalist's perspective, this year's Oscars underscored the unpredictable nature of the awards circuit. While precursor wins can sometimes indicate Oscar success, they are far from guarantees. The evening’s surprises remind us that the Academy has its own unique criteria, often diverging from the consensus built during the lead-up to the big night. For audiences and critics alike, it serves as a reminder to savor the unexpected moments that make the Oscars so captivating.
The 2025 Oscars celebrated cinematic excellence with unforgettable moments both on and off the red carpet. Among the most talked-about events was a nostalgic reenactment by Hollywood legends. Two decades after their iconic kiss at the awards ceremony, Halle Berry and Adrien Brody recreated this memorable moment on the carpet before the event began. Their spontaneous embrace brought back fond memories for many fans and was met with enthusiastic applause from those in attendance.
Inside the Dolby Theatre, presenters and performers added their own flair to the evening. Amy Poehler delighted the audience with her witty commentary on the scarcity of charging adapters, unaware that Oscar-branded chargers were conveniently placed throughout the venue. Meanwhile, Conan O'Brien ensured guests stayed energized with snack packs distributed to attendees, humorously noting his attempt to include gummies but facing a "hard pass" from Disney.
The night also saw significant wins for several films. The Brutalist, a highly anticipated project, secured three prestigious awards, including best cinematography, original score, and actor. The cast and crew's jubilation was palpable each time they claimed victory. Additionally, Brazil made history as I'm Still Here won the best international feature film category, marking the country's first win in this division. The celebration continued as Anora emerged as the biggest winner of the night, earning five accolades, including best picture, and promptly being immortalized on the wall of winners outside the theater.
Beyond the awards, heartfelt tributes and impromptu performances highlighted the evening. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande joined Queen Latifah on stage to honor the late music legend Quincy Jones with an emotional rendition of "Ease on Down the Road." This collaborative moment underscored the enduring impact of cinema and music in bringing people together. Ultimately, the 2025 Oscars served as a testament to the power of storytelling and the unifying spirit of the arts, reminding us all of the profound influence these narratives have on our lives.
In a surprising turn of events at the 2025 Academy Awards, actress Mikey Madison emerged victorious, winning Best Actress for her role in "Anora." Despite the accolades and the potential career shift this win could bring, Madison remains grounded. She expressed uncertainty about what lies ahead but emphasized her commitment to storytelling and working with inspiring individuals. Interestingly, Madison also shared that she plans to return home to her puppies and handle their mess, reminding herself of life's simpler moments.
The film "Anora," directed by Sean Baker, garnered five Oscars, including Best Picture. Madison's portrayal of Ani, a young sex worker who impulsively marries into a powerful Russian family, earned critical acclaim. During her acceptance speech, Madison highlighted her dedication to supporting and advocating for the sex worker community, acknowledging the significant impact these women have had on her experience.
Maintaining Groundedness Amidst Glory
Following her unexpected win at the prestigious event, Mikey Madison chose to focus on staying present and appreciating the moment rather than speculating about future opportunities. The actress, who triumphed over presumed frontrunner Demi Moore, revealed that she has not yet fully processed the implications of her victory. Madison expressed a desire to continue crafting compelling narratives and collaborating with those who inspire her. This mindset reflects her dedication to her craft and her intention to remain true to her artistic roots.
Madison's humility shone through as she discussed her immediate plans post-awards. She humorously mentioned returning home to clean up after her new puppies, an act that would undoubtedly bring her back to reality. This candid admission underscores her ability to maintain balance between the glamour of Hollywood and the simplicity of everyday life. Her down-to-earth approach highlights her genuine nature and serves as a reminder that success does not necessarily change one's core values or priorities.
Honoring the Sex Worker Community
Central to Madison's performance in "Anora" was her portrayal of Ani, a young woman navigating complex circumstances within the sex work industry. Madison took the opportunity during her acceptance speech to honor and support the sex worker community. She acknowledged the privilege of meeting incredible women from this community, emphasizing that these encounters were among the most memorable aspects of her journey. Madison's advocacy extends beyond her role, showcasing her commitment to social issues and marginalized groups.
The film "Anora," which swept multiple categories at the Oscars, tells the story of Ani, a young sex worker who impulsively marries the son of a powerful Russian businessman. Through this narrative, Madison brought attention to the often-overlooked lives and struggles of sex workers. Her heartfelt words on stage resonated with many, reinforcing her role as both an artist and an advocate. Madison's dedication to portraying authentic stories and her willingness to use her platform for meaningful causes set her apart as a unique voice in the entertainment industry.