As 2025 is well underway, the entertainment and world sectors are showing what they have in store. Many events have occurred within culture, politics and media which showcase a very unique tone to the year.
2025 Oscar Nominations
The 2025 Academy Awards nominations came with many surprises. Some films stood out more than others. "Emilia Pérez" garnered 13 nominations, the most for any non-English language film in history. "The Brutalist" and "Wicked" secured 10 nominations each and the best picture category had 10 nominated films which demonstrates how diverse of a pool was in the running.
Key Nominations and Breakout Performances
In a variety of categories there were many unique moments that defined the importance of some individuals and their movies. While major productions earned high counts for nominations independent productions were shown to not be forgotten and still carry major creative vision. Some unexpected names landed on the top lists bringing new talent into the running for accolades.
Top Contenders for Best Picture
“The Brutalist,” a post war epic drama and “Emilia Pérez” a musical set in Mexico had some high nominations throughout all categories for the awards ceremony. Other pictures up for best picture that drew many eyeballs were the following; “A Complete Unknown,” “Conclave”, "Dune Part Two”, “I'm Still Here", "Nickel Boys" “The Substance” and "Wicked”.
Surprising Nominations
Despite popular favorites there were new contenders added such as "Nickel Boys," which had a very unique perspective in how it told its story through point of view and also "I’m Still Here" a Brazilian film, that focuses on political resistance. Both films drew notice by going outside usual methods in what they offered visually. The two films beat out fan favorite "A Real Pain" and it brought recognition to the independent filmmakers .
Performance Recognition
Many actors had their performances recognized from well established veterans to some that are new comers to these highly praised award systems. Also previous winners have showcased even more skill to be called back again with accolades such as this.
Lead and Supporting Roles
Adrien Brody was nominated for his role in “The Brutalist" while Fernanda Torres an upset winner in her category for her performance in “I’m Still Here”. They highlight some of the great talent which has been showcased throughout many different kinds of films and series this past year. The show will be one that highlights very complex and talented portrayals.
Historic First Nominations
A historic moment took place in having Karla Sofía Gascón the first trans person nominated in the acting category and Demi Moore who shared how her history impacted her present portrayal in "The Substance".
Key Snubs at the Oscars
While some received highly sought after awards nominations some that were also highly considered were left off of this list. Some were for specific categories while others had some wondering why they were left off of the major short list all together.
Notable Omissions
The biggest moments were the absences of the much talked about Challengers as well as Marianne Jean-Baptiste for her role in "Hard Truths.” Both of these left some people disappointed while seeing other movies make their debut in nominations for a great number of honors. Also the lack of nomination for the film director Denis Villeneuve for “Dune: Part Two” was deemed questionable.
Changing Format for Awards Shows
In a shift in strategy to keep award shows fresh they are relying on many types of well known talents. Comedian Conan O’Brien is hosting the 2025 Oscars and the host for Golden Globes for this year was Nikk Glaser who was the first female comedian to do so solo for the show. The changes that are currently in motion are aimed at retaining popularity and new ways of capturing large audiences while remaining innovative in media.
Broadcast on Hulu
This year will mark the first year where the Oscars will stream on Hulu in addition to their traditional method of being televised on ABC which indicates an ability for large traditional networks to create new opportunities within different methods of media.
Golden Globes Recognition and Unique Approach
The 82nd annual Golden Globes recognized "The Brutalist", "Emilia Pérez," and "Shōgun" as well as notable wins for Demi Moore. They provided many heartfelt, emotional moments of great magnitude. Nikki Glaser’s opening remarks for the Golden Globes offered both comedic and poignant approaches that added levity to the highly anticipated awards ceremony.
Unique Take on The Award Format
While traditionally a lighthearted award ceremony it showed both humor and honesty when approaching different viewpoints throughout the night. They combined the red carpet experience to high caliber awards as well as having all types of people react and take their own special view of each award.
Viewership of The Awards
Though viewership was down from previous years the 2025 Golden Globes did hold its appeal as 9.3 million watched from home while being showcased on multiple platforms and still remains as a stable number despite changes with viewers and media in the last few years.
Shifting Media Landscapes
Many cable viewerships are changing and the television audience is declining due to changes in current culture and society. While these types of changes are notable both the Grammys and the Oscar's ceremonies have shown they are evolving with it all which include the ability to engage with streaming media platforms.
Key Takeaways
- The 2025 Oscars had many nominations which were heavily in favor of a specific category.
- “Emilia Pérez,” “The Brutalist” and “Wicked” led nominations among many other films and individuals.
- Notable performances by both veteran actors and fresh talent gave interesting perspectives to a diverse line up.
- The awards ceremony incorporated elements from the world such as political topics and creative new forms of film in a respectful yet powerful way.
- Changes to media platforms were noted as the Oscars will stream on Hulu marking the importance of moving into a more tech centered format.