97th Academy Awards Nominations Announced After Wildfire Delays

After delays caused by the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, the much-anticipated nominations for the 97th Academy Awards were finally announced on January 23, 2025. This year’s nominations are marked by historic milestones, record-breaking contenders, and a blend of blockbuster and arthouse films. With 13 nominations, Emilia Pérez dominates the field, while Conan O’Brien is set to host the ceremony on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Key Highlights of the 97th Academy Awards Nominations

1. “Emilia Pérez” Leads with 13 Nominations

The crime musical Emilia Pérez has taken center stage, securing 13 nominations. It stands just one nomination shy of tying the all-time record for most nods by a single film. The movie has been praised for its innovative storytelling, outstanding performances, and technical brilliance.

2. Historic Moment for Karla Sofía Gascón

In a groundbreaking moment for the Academy, Karla Sofía Gascón, the star of Emilia Pérez, became the first openly transgender woman to be nominated in an acting category. Her powerful performance has earned her a spot in the Best Actress category, marking a significant milestone for inclusivity in the film industry.

3. Notable Nominees

Other films making a strong showing include:

• The Brutalist and Wicked, with 10 nominations each.
• Dune: Part Two, Anora, and I’m Still Here, which are among the films nominated for multiple awards across various categories.

The Best Picture Race

This year’s Best Picture category features a diverse lineup of films, showcasing a wide range of genres, narratives, and creative visions. The nominees are:

1. Anora
2. The Brutalist
3. A Complete Unknown
4. Conclave
5. Dune: Part Two
6. Emilia Pérez
7. I’m Still Here
8. Nickel Boys
9. The Substance

Each of these films brings something unique to the table, promising a tough competition in the ceremony’s most coveted category.

Spotlight on Acting Categories

Best Actress Nominees

• Cynthia Erivo (Wicked): Known for her incredible vocal and acting talent, Erivo shines in the adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical.
• Karla Sofía Gascón (Emilia Pérez): Gascón’s nomination is both a testament to her talent and a historical moment for the Academy.
• Mikey Madison (Anora): Madison’s nuanced performance has drawn critical acclaim.
• Demi Moore (The Substance): Moore’s gripping role in this psychological drama has earned her another nod.
• Fernanda Torres (I’m Still Here): Torres’ portrayal of resilience and vulnerability has captured the hearts of audiences.

Best Actor Nominees

• Adrian Brody (The Brutalist): Brody’s intense and layered performance is one of the film’s highlights.
• Timothée Chalamet (A Complete Unknown): Chalamet dazzles as Bob Dylan in this biographical drama.
• Colman Domingo (Sing Sing): Domingo’s portrayal of redemption and hope is unforgettable.
• Ralph Fiennes (Conclave): Fiennes delivers a masterful performance in this gripping political drama.
• Sebastian Stan (The Apprentice): Stan’s transformation for this role has impressed critics and audiences alike.

Other Categories

Nominations were also announced across a wide array of categories, including:

• Best Supporting Actor/Actress: Featuring standout performances that brought depth and nuance to their respective films.
• Best Director: Recognizing the creative visionaries behind this year’s most compelling stories.
• Screenplay: Divided into Original and Adapted categories, this year’s nominees highlight the art of storytelling.
• International Feature: Celebrating the best of global cinema.
• Documentary Feature: Showcasing powerful real-life narratives.
• Technical Categories: Acknowledging excellence in cinematography, editing, production design, costume design, and more.

Ceremony Detail

The 97th Academy Awards ceremony will take place on March 2, 2025, at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. This year, the witty and charismatic Conan O’Brien will host the event, adding his unique comedic flair to the evening.

Delays Due to Los Angeles Wildfires

This year’s nominations announcement faced delays due to the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. The fires caused disruptions across the city, leading the Academy to postpone the announcement to ensure public safety and respect for the ongoing crisis.

The 97th Academy Awards promise to be a celebration of cinematic excellence, marked by historical milestones and fierce competition. With Emilia Pérez leading the pack and Karla Sofía Gascón making history, this year’s Oscars will undoubtedly be a night to remember.