The 2025 Oscars nominations have been unveiled, highlighting a diverse array of films and performances that have captivated audiences globally. Leading the pack is "The Brutalist," which has broken records with 13 nominations, marking the most for a non-English language film. Hot on its heels is "Wicked," with ten nominations, including a nod for Cynthia Erivo. The announcement sets the stage for a dazzling Oscars ceremony set to take place on March 2, hosted by Conan O'Brien in Los Angeles.
A notable highlight this year is Karla Sofía Gascón's nomination, making her the first openly trans actor to be up for an Oscar, an achievement that underscores the Academy's evolving inclusivity. Meanwhile, Demi Moore emerges as a frontrunner in her category, riding the momentum from her recent Golden Globe win. In contrast, Marianne Jean-Baptiste's anticipated nomination for "Hard Truths" did not materialize, despite expectations following her past success with Mike Leigh's "Secrets & Lies."
"No Other Land," a poignant exploration of the destruction in the Masafer Yatta district of the West Bank, joins other thought-provoking documentaries that dominated the shortlist. Films like "Porcelain War," which delves into the lives of artists in Ukraine, and "Black Box Diaries," focusing on a landmark sexual harassment case in Japan, also made their mark. The documentary category favored complex narratives, leaving no room for lighter fare such as "Will & Harper" or retrospectives like that of Christopher Reeve's life.
"We will honour Los Angeles as the city of dreams, showcasing its beauty and resilience, as well as its role as a beacon for film-makers and creative visionaries for over a century," said Bill Kramer and Janet Yang.
The dramatic art of storytelling continues with "Soundtrack to a Coup d’État," an innovative jazz-infused examination of Patrice Lumumba's assassination in 1961. Similarly, "Sugarcane" offers a deep dive into Canada's Indian residential school system, further emphasizing this year's focus on weighty themes.
Ridley Scott's much-anticipated sequel to his 2000 film, initially expected to dominate the nominations, was only recognized in the best costume design category. Conversely, James Mangold's Bob Dylan biopic "A Complete Unknown" and Edward Berger's "Conclave," starring Ralph Fiennes, each garnered eight nominations, highlighting their strong presence across multiple categories.
"Adrien and Felicity’s performances are completely their own," commented Brady Corbet, reflecting on the standout performances that have captured the Academy's attention this year.
"The Brutalist" boasts an impressive array of nominations, including best picture and best director, while its leading stars continue to receive praise for their compelling portrayals. The film's success not only sets a new benchmark for international cinema but also underscores the growing acceptance and celebration of diverse voices within the industry.