Anora Dominates the Night
Los Angeles, CA – The 97th Academy Awards delivered an evening of triumph, glamour, and emotional moments at the Dolby Theatre, with Anora emerging as the dominant force of the night. Directed by Sean Baker, the film won five Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress, solidifying its place in cinematic history. The ceremony, hosted by the ever-charismatic Conan O’Brien, provided a mix of heartfelt speeches, dazzling fashion, and a celebration of the best in filmmaking.
Adrien Brody Secures Second Oscar
Adrien Brody secured his second Academy Award for Best Actor, more than two decades after his first win for The Pianist in 2003. His performance in this year’s critically acclaimed film The Brutalist was widely praised, and his return to the Oscars stage marked a full-circle moment in his career, followed by a close to six-minute speech which had the film world awaiting an end. Kieran Culkin and Mikey Madison also took home top acting honors, winning Best Supporting Actor and Best Supporting Actress, respectively. Their wins were met with enthusiastic applause, reflecting their compelling performances in some of the year’s most talked-about films.
A Red-Carpet Spectacle
Ariana Grande turned heads on the red carpet in a custom Schiaparelli gown with cascading pink fabric, while Elle Fanning exuded old Hollywood charm in a vintage-inspired dress that drew comparisons to Grace Kelly. Demi Moore stunned in a minimalist yet striking Armani Privé ensemble, while Lupita Nyong’o and Zoe Saldaña continued their tradition of bold and memorable fashion statements with pearls and a bubble dress. The red carpet was a spectacle, with designers showcasing their finest creations, making the event not just a celebration of film but also of fashion artistry.
A Night Free of Political Statements
Unlike past Academy Awards ceremonies, which have often been marked by political statements and calls to action, this year’s event largely steered clear of activism. While there were moments of sincerity and deeply personal speeches, the evening remained focused on honoring cinematic achievements rather than making political statements. Many winners used their time on stage to express gratitude to their colleagues, families, and creative teams, emphasizing the collaborative nature of filmmaking.
Special Tributes and Lifetime Achievements
In addition to competitive awards, the ceremony also featured special tributes to industry legends. Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey honored the late artist Quincy Jones with lifetime achievement awards, recognizing his decades of contributions to the world of film and entertainment, while Morgan Freeman honored Gene Hackman, a leading American actor who recently passed away in February 2025. These moments added depth to the ceremony, reminding audiences of the industry’s rich history and the artists who have paved the way for future generations.
Unforgettable Highlights
The night was filled with highlights beyond the awards themselves. A surprise Wicked musical performance captivated the audience, and some of the industry’s top artists took the stage in a moving tribute to classic cinema. Conan O’Brien’s sharp wit and playful banter kept the show lively, ensuring that even the more solemn moments were balanced with humor and entertainment. In a year marked by diverse and innovative films, the Academy Awards reinforced the importance of creative expression and the magic of the silver screen, setting a high bar for years to come.
