The 97th Academy Awards nominations were announced on January 23, 2025, after delays due to Los Angeles wildfires.
Leading the nominations is Jacques Audiard’s “Emilia Pérez,” a French musical that garnered 13 nods, setting a record for non-English-language films.
Best Picture Nominees
- “Anora”
- Premise: Directed by Sean Baker, “Anora” delves into the life of a young woman navigating complex social dynamics in contemporary America.
- Reason for Nomination: The film’s authentic portrayal of modern societal issues and compelling character development resonated with audiences and critics alike.
- “The Brutalist”
- Premise: This film chronicles the journey of a Hungarian architect and his wife as they immigrate to America post-World War II, facing challenges in pursuit of the American Dream.
- Reason for Nomination: Its profound narrative and striking cinematography offer a poignant exploration of ambition and resilience.
- “A Complete Unknown”
- Premise: Directed by James Mangold, the film provides an intimate look into the life of a young Bob Dylan, capturing his rise in the 1960s folk music scene.
- Reason for Nomination: The biographical portrayal, combined with stellar performances, brings a legendary figure’s early years to life.
- “Conclave”
- Premise: Set against the backdrop of a papal election, “Conclave” unveils the political and spiritual intricacies within the Vatican as cardinals gather to choose a new pope.
- Reason for Nomination: The film’s intricate storytelling and exploration of faith and power dynamics captivated the Academy.
- “Dune: Part Two”
- Premise: The sequel to Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation continues Paul Atreides’ saga on the desert planet Arrakis, delving deeper into political alliances and personal destiny.
- Reason for Nomination: Its epic scale, visual grandeur, and faithful adaptation of the source material impressed both fans and critics.
- “Emilia Pérez”
- Premise: A musical tale of a Mexican cartel boss who transitions into a woman, facing challenges and seeking redemption.
- Reason for Nomination: The film’s unique narrative, combined with powerful performances, especially by Karla Sofía Gascón, who made history as the first openly trans performer nominated for Best Actress, garnered significant acclaim.
- “I’m Still Here”
- Premise: Brazil’s entry follows a woman’s journey of self-discovery and resilience amidst societal challenges.
- Reason for Nomination: The film’s emotional depth and Fernanda Torres’ compelling performance earned it a spot among the best.
- “Nickel Boys”
- Premise: Based on Colson Whitehead’s novel, it tells the harrowing story of two boys facing abuses at a reform school in Jim Crow-era Florida.
- Reason for Nomination: Its unflinching portrayal of historical injustices and strong character arcs made a profound impact.
- “The Substance”
- Premise: Directed by Coralie Fargeat, this film explores the consequences of a groundbreaking scientific discovery that challenges societal norms.
- Reason for Nomination: Its thought-provoking themes and innovative storytelling stood out to the Academy.
- “Wicked”
- Premise: An adaptation of the acclaimed Broadway musical, it tells the untold story of the witches of Oz, focusing on the unlikely friendship between Elphaba and Glinda.
- Reason for Nomination: The film’s enchanting visuals, musical performances, and exploration of themes like acceptance and identity resonated widely.
The 97th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O’Brien, will be held on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.