Oscars 2025 Highlights: ‘Anora’ Dominates with Five Wins, Adrien Brody and Mikey Madison Shine

The 97th Academy Awards unfolded in spectacular fashion at the Dolby Theatre, Los Angeles, celebrating the best of cinema in 2024. The event, hosted by Conan O'Brien, saw Hollywood’s brightest stars gather for a night of history-making wins, emotional moments, and unforgettable performances.

While Jacques Audiard’s ‘Emilia Perez’ entered the night as the most nominated film with 13 nods, it was Sean Baker’s ‘Anora’ that emerged as the biggest winner, bagging five major awards, including Best Film, Best Actress, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Film Editing.

Big Winners of the Night

‘Anora’ Sweeps Five Major Categories

Sean Baker’s ‘Anora’ was the undisputed champion of the evening, claiming the most prestigious awards:

• Best Film
• Best Director – Sean Baker
• Best Actress – Mikey Madison
• Best Original Screenplay – Sean Baker
• Best Film Editing

Mikey Madison’s win as Best Actress for her stunning performance in Anora was one of the most celebrated moments of the night.

Adrien Brody Wins Best Actor for ‘The Brutalist’

Hollywood veteran Adrien Brody took home the Best Actor award for his powerful portrayal in ‘The Brutalist’, marking another milestone in his illustrious career.

Kieran Culkin and Zoe Saldana Bag Supporting Actor Awards

• Best Supporting Actor – Kieran Culkin (A Real Pain)

• Best Supporting Actress – Zoe Saldana (Emilia Perez)

Zoe Saldana, in her emotional acceptance speech, paid tribute to her roots, saying, “I am a proud child of immigrant parents.”

Notable Wins Across Categories

‘Emilia Perez’ Secures Two Oscars

Despite its 13 nominations, ‘Emilia Perez’ won in two major categories:

• Best Supporting Actress – Zoe Saldana
• Best Original Song – El Mal (Clément Ducol, Camille, and Jacques Audiard)

‘The Brutalist’ Bags Three Awards

• Best Actor – Adrien Brody

• Best Cinematography
• Best Original Score – Daniel Blumberg

Other Key Wins

• Best Adapted Screenplay – Conclave

• Best International Feature Film – I’m Still Here (Brazil)
• Best Visual Effects – Dune: Part Two
• Best Sound – Dune: Part Two
• Best Documentary Feature – No Other Land
• Best Documentary Short Film – The Only Girl in the Orchestra
• Best Production Design – Wicked
• Best Costume Design – Wicked
• Best Makeup and Hairstyling – The Substance

India’s Oscar Dream Dashed as ‘Anuja’ Misses Out

India’s sole representation at the Oscars 2025, the short film ‘Anuja’, was nominated for Best Live Action Short Film. However, it lost to ‘I’m Not a Robot’, dashing India's hopes for an Oscar win this year. The film, backed by Priyanka Chopra and two-time Oscar winner Guneet Monga, had generated immense anticipation but ultimately fell short.

Star-Studded Performances and Special Tributes

The night began with a spectacular opening performance by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, stars of the Oscar-nominated film Wicked. Music lovers were also treated to a special tribute to James Bond films, featuring performances by Doja Cat, Lisa of BLACKPINK, and Raye.

One of the most emotional moments of the evening came when the Academy paid tribute to the victims and heroes of the recent Los Angeles wildfires, highlighting the resilience of the city and its people.

Final Thoughts

The 97th Academy Awards was a night to remember, with ‘Anora’ dominating the top awards, Adrien Brody and Mikey Madison shining in acting categories, and ‘Dune: Part Two’ continuing its legacy in technical excellence. As Hollywood moves forward, the Oscars 2025 once again proved why cinema remains one of the most powerful storytelling mediums in the world.