The 2025 Academy Awards are set to unfold on March 2nd, with a diverse array of films vying for top honors. Among the ten nominees for Best Picture, several stand out not only for their nominations but also for the compelling stories they tell. Emilia Pérez leads the pack with an impressive 13 nominations, while Wicked and The Brutalist follow closely with 10 each. Despite the accolades, some controversy surrounds the lead actress of Emilia Pérez, casting doubt on its prospects. Anora is tipped as a frontrunner by Yahoo’s prediction model, competing against other strong contenders like A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, I’m Still Here, Nickel Boys, and The Substance.
Exploring the Stories Behind the Films
The nominated films offer a wide range of narratives that captivate audiences. From historical dramas to futuristic epics, each film brings something unique to the table. Anora delves into the life of a young sex worker who marries into Russian oligarchy, only to find her fairy tale unraveling into a feverish dream. Mikey Madison's performance in this gritty retelling has earned her a Best Actress nomination. Meanwhile, The Brutalist follows Adrien Brody as a Hungarian architect seeking the American Dream in post-war America, earning him a nod for Best Actor. Both films explore complex characters and societal issues through compelling storytelling.
Anora's narrative is both enchanting and unsettling, blending elements of fantasy and reality. The film explores themes of power, corruption, and the fleeting nature of dreams. The protagonist's journey from a humble background to the heights of wealth and influence is marked by unexpected twists and turns. On the other hand, The Brutalist offers a deep dive into the immigrant experience, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of those who seek a better life in a new country. Brody's portrayal of the architect's inner turmoil adds layers of depth to the story, making it a standout contender for Best Picture.
Diverse Genres and Unique Perspectives
Beyond the leading contenders, the remaining nominees showcase a variety of genres and perspectives. A Complete Unknown tells the biographical story of Bob Dylan's early days in New York City, with Timothée Chalamet earning a Best Actor nomination for his portrayal. Conclave, set within the Vatican, explores the political and spiritual challenges faced by cardinals during a papal conclave, with Ralph Fiennes delivering a powerful performance. Dune: Part Two continues the epic space saga, introducing new characters and expanding the universe created by Frank Herbert's novel.
I’m Still Here, inspired by true events, shines a light on the resilience of Eunice Paiva, a Brazilian activist searching for her missing husband during a military dictatorship. Fernanda Torres' portrayal of Paiva has made history, marking her as the second Brazilian woman to receive an Oscar nomination. Nickel Boys, based on Colson Whitehead's novel, uses a first-person perspective to recount the harrowing experiences of two African American boys in a reform school during the Jim Crow era. Finally, The Substance blends body horror with social commentary, exploring the consequences of a mysterious drug that promises rejuvenation but comes with a heavy price. Each film brings its own voice to the 2025 Oscars, promising an evening filled with memorable moments.