The 2025 Oscars are just around the corner, and this year’s race is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and unpredictable in recent memory. With a mix of seasoned veterans, breakout stars, and groundbreaking films, the competition is fierce. From Demi Moore’s stunning comeback to Timothée Chalamet’s electrifying performance, the stakes are high, and the outcomes are anything but certain. Let’s dive into the likely winners and the stories behind this year’s most talked-about nominees.
Best Picture: A Battle of Styles
This year’s Best Picture category is a showdown between two very different but equally compelling films: Anora and Conclave.
Anora, directed by Sean Baker, is a raw and emotional story about a naive erotic dancer, played by Mikey Madison, who finds herself in over her head. The film captures the gritty, unfiltered essence of independent cinema, with a mix of humor and heartbreak that has resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.
On the other hand, Conclave, directed by Edward Berger, is a sleek and polished Vatican thriller. With a star-studded cast and a plot that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, it’s the kind of high-stakes drama that the Academy often gravitates toward. Think of it as a modern-day Poseidon Adventure, but with the grandeur of the Sistine Chapel.
While Anora has the indie charm and emotional depth, Conclave has the glitz and glamour that often wins over Oscar voters. My bet is on Conclave to take home the top prize, but don’t count Anora out just yet.
Best Actress: Demi Moore vs. Mikey Madison
The Best Actress category is a tight race between two powerhouse performances: Demi Moore in The Substance and Mikey Madison in Anora.
Demi Moore, a Hollywood icon whose career spans decades, has never won an Oscar. Her role in The Substance as an aging actress who undergoes a horrifying transformation could finally change that. The film is a satirical take on the pressures of aging in Hollywood, and Moore’s performance is both chilling and captivating. The fact that she’s playing a character who is essentially a grotesque version of herself adds a layer of irony that the Academy loves.
But then there’s Mikey Madison, whose performance in Anora is nothing short of a revelation. She brings a raw energy and vulnerability to her role that has earned her widespread acclaim. While Moore’s performance is a testament to her enduring star power, Madison’s is a breakout moment that could very well steal the show.
In the end, I think the Academy will lean toward Moore, not just for her performance, but for the narrative of a Hollywood veteran making a triumphant comeback. But Madison’s star is definitely on the rise, and this won’t be the last we hear of her.
Best Actor: Adrien Brody vs. Timothée Chalamet
The Best Actor race is another nail-biter, with Adrien Brody and Timothée Chalamet leading the pack.
Adrien Brody’s performance in The Brutalist as a Jewish Hungarian architect navigating post-war America is a masterclass in acting. It’s a role that requires depth, nuance, and a deep understanding of the historical context, and Brody delivers on all fronts. His performance has been compared to his Oscar-winning turn in The Pianist, and for good reason. It’s a powerful, haunting portrayal that lingers long after the credits roll.
But Timothée Chalamet is giving Brody a run for his money with his portrayal of a young Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown. While some may argue that Chalamet doesn’t quite capture the essence of Dylan, there’s no denying the charisma and star power he brings to the role. The film is a perfect showcase for Chalamet’s talents, and his recent win at the SAG Awards has only solidified his status as a frontrunner.
While I personally would love to see Brody take home the award, I think Chalamet’s momentum and undeniable charm will win over the Academy. Plus, his acceptance speeches are always a highlight, and I’m sure this one will be no different.
Best Supporting Actress: Zoe Saldaña’s Moment to Shine
In the Best Supporting Actress category, Zoe Saldaña is the clear favorite for her role in Emilia Pérez. As a drug lord’s fixer, Saldaña delivers a sharp, compelling performance that has been a standout throughout awards season. Despite the film’s overall struggles, Saldaña has managed to rise above and make a strong case for herself.
However, there’s a potential spoiler in the mix: Isabella Rossellini in Conclave. Her role as a nun who confronts the College of Cardinals is brief but pivotal, and she makes the most of her limited screen time. Rossellini’s performance is a masterclass in making every moment count, and her legendary family ties (she’s the daughter of Ingrid Bergman) only add to her appeal.
While Rossellini’s performance is undeniably strong, I think Saldaña’s consistent presence throughout the awards season will ultimately secure her the win.
Best Supporting Actor: Kieran Culkin’s Time to Shine
The Best Supporting Actor category is one of the least competitive this year, with Kieran Culkin as the clear frontrunner for his role in A Real Pain. Culkin’s performance is a perfect blend of humor and heartbreak, and he’s been a favorite since the film’s release.
There’s really no competition here. Culkin has this one in the bag, and deservedly so.
Best Director: Sean Baker’s Visionary Work
Sean Baker, the director of Anora, has been the favorite to win Best Director since he took home the award at the Directors Guild of America. Baker has a unique ability to capture the raw, unfiltered essence of American life, and Anora is no exception. His work is adventurous yet accessible, and he has a knack for telling stories that resonate on a deeply human level.
While Conclave’s Edward Berger has also done an excellent job, the lack of a nomination in this category makes Baker the clear winner. His vision and storytelling have set him apart, and this award is well-deserved.
Best Animated Feature: A Surprising Contender
The Best Animated Feature category is always a fun one, and this year is no exception. The standout is Flow, a Latvian animated film about a cat trying to survive in a world devastated by floods. The film is a visual masterpiece, with stunningly realistic imagery and a dream-like quality that sets it apart from the usual fare.
But Flow is up against some stiff competition, including Pixar’s Inside Out 2 and Dreamworks’ The Wild Robot. Both films are big hits with audiences and critics, and The Wild Robot in particular has a strong emotional core that could sway voters.
However, I think Flow’s unique storytelling and visual style will win over the Academy. It’s a film that stands out in a crowded field, and its sheer originality makes it a deserving winner.
The Big Night: What to Expect
The 2025 Oscars, hosted by the ever-witty Conan O’Brien, promise to be a night full of surprises, emotional speeches, and well-deserved wins. Whether it’s Demi Moore’s triumphant comeback, Timothée Chalamet’s rising star, or the unexpected charm of a Latvian animated cat, this year’s ceremony is shaping up to be one for the books.
So grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready for a night of glitz, glamour, and unforgettable moments. The Oscars are always full of surprises, and this year is sure to be no different. Who will take home the gold? We’ll just have to wait and see.