The 2025 Critics Choice Awards, held at Santa Monica’s Barker Hangar, celebrated the finest achievements in both film and television. Hosted by Chelsea Handler and broadcast on E!, this prestigious event was postponed from its original January 14 date due to wildfires in Los Angeles. Notably, films like Conclave and Wicked led with 11 nominations each, while TV series such as Shogun garnered multiple nods. The ceremony provided a platform for recognizing outstanding performances, directing, and technical achievements across various categories.

Celebrating Excellence in Film and Television: The 2025 Critics Choice Awards

In the heart of the entertainment industry, on a glamorous evening in February, the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica transformed into a dazzling stage for the 2025 Critics Choice Awards. Host Chelsea Handler returned to her former network home, E!, to guide viewers through an evening dedicated to celebrating cinematic and televisual excellence. Initially planned for mid-January, the event faced delays due to wildfires ravaging Los Angeles, ultimately settling on a new date in early February.

This year's film nominees were particularly competitive, with Conclave and Wicked leading the pack with 11 nominations each. Other notable contenders included Dune: Part Two and Emilia Pérez, which received 10 nominations apiece. In the television categories, Shogun emerged as the frontrunner with six nominations, closely followed by popular series like Abbott Elementary, Disclaimer, and Hacks.

The awards ceremony not only honored acting prowess but also recognized exceptional contributions in directing, screenwriting, cinematography, production design, editing, costume design, hair and makeup, visual effects, animated features, and more. The diverse range of categories ensured that every aspect of filmmaking and television production was celebrated.

From a journalist's perspective, the 2025 Critics Choice Awards highlighted the resilience of the entertainment industry in the face of adversity. The postponement due to wildfires underscored the importance of safety and adaptability. Moreover, the presence of a wide array of nominees from different backgrounds and genres emphasized the growing diversity and richness of storytelling in both film and television. This event serves as a reminder of the power of art to unite and inspire, even in challenging times.