The 2025 Oscars showcased unforgettable moments, touching speeches, and remarkable performances, making this year’s Academy Awards a spectacular celebration of film. The evening featured powerful orations and dramatic instances, creating a whirlwind of emotions and some lighthearted surprises. A highlight of the night was Zoe Saldaña’s heartfelt acceptance of the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in Emilia Pérez, where she recognized her immigrant heritage and honoured her cherished grandmother. Additionally, Anora was significantly impacted by winning top honours, including Best Picture and Best Director for Sean Baker, solidifying its legacy in Oscar history.
The opening act was a highlight, featuring an extraordinary “Wizard of Oz”-themed musical medley with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, beautifully showcasing Hollywood’s magical connection to musical performances. With unforgettable renditions like “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and the powerful rendition of “Defying Gravity” from Wicked, the evening began with the Oscars’ signature glitz and glamour. Host Conan O’Brien further elevated the atmosphere with his memorable antics, humorously appearing as a body double of actress Demi Moore in a playful nod to The Substance, which set a vibrant mood for the entire evening.
Amidst the sea of stars at the Oscars, it was the heartfelt stories that resonated with viewers. Kieran Culkin’s lighthearted baby wish and Morgan Freeman’s touching tribute to the late Gene Hackman highlighted the event’s focus beyond filmmaking—it showcased the personal narratives that define Hollywood’s charm. The 2025 Academy Awards masterfully intertwined emotional peaks with engaging moments, marking it as one of Hollywood’s most unforgettable nights.
One of the most touching moments at the 2025 Oscars was Zoe Saldaña’s heartfelt acceptance of the Best Supporting Actress award for her performance in Emilia Pérez. As she stepped onto the stage, Saldaña shared her immigrant background, dedicating her victory to her family, especially her grandmother, who arrived in the United States in 1961. “I am a proud child of immigrant parents,” she said, tearfully. “The fact that I’m getting an award for a role where I got to sing and speak in Spanish—my grandmother, if she were here, she would be so delighted, this is for my grandmother.” Her remarks resonated deeply with the audience, emphasizing not only her remarkable talent but also the significance of diversity and representation in the film industry.
Saldaña’s victory holds significance for several reasons. It represents a landmark moment for representation in Hollywood, as she became the first American of Dominican descent to receive an Academy Award. Her impactful speech celebrated both her individual journey and the broader push for inclusivity within the film industry. This award followed a successful awards season in which Saldaña had already triumphed at the Golden Globes, Critics’ Choice Awards, BAFTA, and SAG Awards. Her Oscar win underscores her commitment to her craft and her ability to infuse depth and authenticity into her roles, further establishing her as one of Hollywood’s most gifted and influential stars.
Anora left a remarkable mark at the 2025 Oscars, winning several top categories and securing its legacy in Oscar history. Directed by Sean Baker, the film claimed four prestigious awards: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Film Editing, marking a significant milestone for the director and his team.
This unexpected triumph was particularly noteworthy given the film’s unique storytelling and its focus on marginalized voices in cinema. Anora’s success transcended mere awards; it symbolized the growing acceptance of innovative and diverse narratives in Hollywood. Sean Baker’s win for Best Director marked a significant milestone in recognizing his exceptional vision and paving the way for filmmakers with unique perspectives. Anora’s remarkable victory underscored a shift in the Academy’s storytelling philosophy, prioritizing originality and innovation.
The film’s leading actress, Mikey Madison, won the Best Actress award, contributing to the film’s success. Her performance as the lead character was truly transformative, emphasizing the film’s emotional richness and strong acting. Anora’s recognition marked the culmination of the entire team’s hard work and dedication, igniting discussions about the future of cinema. Anora’s strong presence at the Oscars signifies the Academy’s acceptance of diverse narratives, fresh voices, and filmmakers willing to challenge conventions. This achievement paves the way for future productions, demonstrating that daring and inventive storytelling can enchant audiences and earn top honors in the film industry. For Anora, it was an unforgettable evening, representing a pivotal moment in the history of awards.
Adrien Brody’s victory for Best Actor in a Leading Role at the 2025 Oscars was eagerly awaited, marking his second Oscar win following his first in 2003 for The Pianist. This time, he received acclaim for his powerful representation of a Holocaust survivor in The Brutalist, directed by Brady Corbet. Brody’s skilled depiction of a man wrestling with his past’s haunting emotional and psychological scars received praise from both critics and viewers. His talent for portraying such a richly complex character with a blend of vulnerability and strength brought depth to a film exploring the challenging topics of trauma, memory, and resilience.
The role allowed Brody to showcase his range as an actor, solidifying his legacy as one of Hollywood’s most versatile talents. During his acceptance speech, Brody took a moment to reflect on the significance of the role and its profound impact on him, personally and professionally. “This was a role that challenged me on every level,” Brody said, recognizing the importance of telling stories that illuminate history’s darkest chapters.
His heartfelt address highlighted the film’s enduring ability to foster understanding and healing and the weighty responsibility actors bear in portraying significant narratives. His victory was a testament to his skill and a tribute to cinema’s role in safeguarding history and underscoring the emotional suffering endured by survivors of such tragedies.
The moment was even more memorable when Brody humorously addressed the Oscars’ infamous playoff music, signalling the end of a winner’s speech. As soon as the music started to play, Brody jokingly looked into the camera and said, “I’m wrapping up, please turn the music off. I’ve done this before.” Brody’s playful remark brightened the atmosphere during a deeply emotional moment, showcasing his unique ability to blend seriousness with humour. His latest victory highlighted his lasting presence in the industry and the depth he brings to every character, reinforcing his standing among Hollywood’s top actors.
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Conan O’Brien infused the 2025 Oscars with his signature humour, delivering a much-needed comedic lift to the evening’s events. His playful antics, including a standout moment where he appeared with a body double of actress Demi Moore, kept the laughter flowing throughout the ceremony. O’Brien’s hosting approach was a delightful blend of wit and charm, captivating both the celebrities present and the home audience. His impeccable comedic timing and skill in managing live situations made him an ideal host, creating a fun and lighthearted atmosphere for a night celebrating excellence in filmmaking.
Timothée Chalamet’s red carpet appearance at the 2025 Oscars was truly iconic, as he donned a striking, bright yellow suit. Renowned for his unique fashion sense, Chalamet proved once more that he can make a statement and defy conventional red carpet standards. His bold look, complemented by stylish accessories, quickly became a hot topic on social media and among fashion enthusiasts.
The yellow suit stood out sharply against the typical dark hues preferred by most male stars, providing a vibrant splash of colour to the night. Chalamet’s fashion selections have come to embody his youthful vibrance and bold style, establishing him as a leading fashion icon among his peers.
Chalamet’s appearance at the Oscars transcended mere clothing; his confident posture in that striking suit highlighted his influence as a trendsetter in both fashion and film. His willingness to experiment with his style has made him one of Hollywood’s most exciting and unpredictable figures. At the 2025 Oscars, Chalamet’s fashion-forward ensemble confirmed his status as a contemporary style icon, showcasing his fearless approach to pushing boundaries and creating memorable impressions on and off the screen. This moment underscores that the Oscars celebrate not only cinematic achievements but also the distinct personalities and cultural contributions of the stars.
A moving moment at the 2025 Oscars occurred when the Los Angeles Fire Department was honoured for its exceptional efforts in battling the wildfires that devastated the area in recent years. The firefighters received applause for their relentless dedication, courage, and commitment to saving lives and protecting communities, often at great personal risk in controlling the destructive flames. The Academy took time to pay tribute to these real-life heroes, highlighting their bravery and resilience amid danger. This tribute served as a poignant reminder that while the Oscars celebrate film, they also have the capacity to acknowledge the unsung heroes who make a positive impact on our world.
The audience’s heartfelt standing ovation for these firefighters reflected the deep respect and admiration they earned from both the film industry and the public. This acknowledgment not only highlighted their professional heroism but also emphasized the importance of community, service, and the courageous spirit of those who risk their lives for others. By honouring the firefighters, the Oscars showcased that heroes come in various forms and that their bravery deserves recognition on par with the stars of the silver screen.
The 2025 Oscars included a range of personal moments that struck a chord with both winners and the audience, creating an atmosphere that felt more intimate and relatable. Amidst the glitz and glamour, the ceremony showcased instances of vulnerability, humor, and touching tributes, highlighting that the stars on stage are individuals with their own stories to share.
Kieran Culkin’s humorous public plea for more children and heartfelt tributes to late icons made the Oscars a celebration not only of cinema but also of the personal journeys that shape these remarkable performers. These intimate stories added depth to the evening and fostered a stronger connection between the audience and the stars, demonstrating that the Academy Awards are as much about the individuals behind the performances as they are about the films themselves.
One of the night’s standout moments featured Kieran Culkin, who took home the Best Supporting Actor award for his performance in A Real Pain. During his Emmy speech in 2025, Culkin humorously asked his wife, Jazz Charton, for more children and revisited that joke at the Oscars. “No pressure, I love you,” he joked before adding, “Let’s get cracking on those kids; what do you say?” This prompted an uproar of laughter from the audience, adding a playful and relatable element to the evening. Culkin’s openness reminded us that, beyond their celebrity personas, stars share the same personal experiences and humorous interactions as the rest of us, bringing a touch of humanity to the Oscars.
The evening included moving tributes, including Morgan Freeman’s heartfelt homage to his late friend and colleague Gene Hackman. Freeman reminisced about Hackman’s legacy, calling him a “generous performer” whose influence on film will remain unforgettable. “Gene always said, ‘I don’t think about legacy. I just hope people remember me as someone who tried to do good work,” Freeman said.
This tribute was a touching moment that highlighted the importance of personal connections within the film industry and emphasized the deep respect among actors. Freeman’s remarks reminded the audience that the Oscars also provide an opportunity to celebrate the legacies of individuals who have influenced Hollywood, enriching the evening with added emotional depth.
The 2025 Oscars highlighted the importance of personal stories in Hollywood, using humor, emotion, and tributes. These instances showcased the genuine feelings beneath the glamour, reinforcing that the true strength of cinema lies in the personal connections and experiences of its creators. The personal narratives shared during the evening transformed the Oscars into more than just a celebration of filmmaking; they served as a poignant reminder of the shared humanity that binds us all.
The opening number of the 2025 Oscars was a stunning tribute to the legendary Wizard of Oz, featuring an impressive musical medley by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. The performance commenced with Grande’s heartfelt rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” a song that has long been associated with Hollywood’s enchantment.
Her performance was truly mesmerizing, enveloping the audience in the nostalgia and beauty of the classic tune. Erivo then delivered a powerful, emotionally intense rendition of “Home” from The Wiz, highlighting her vocal talent and commanding stage presence. Together, Grande and Erivo took the performance to extraordinary heights, crafting an unforgettable experience that resonated with viewers around the globe.
The medley culminated in a breathtaking duet of “Defying Gravity” from Wicked, featuring two powerhouse vocalists whose collaboration left the audience in awe. Their electric chemistry and harmonious blend created a visual and auditory tribute to the rich legacy of musical theatre.
The production was elevated by breathtaking visuals that smoothly incorporated Los Angeles into the Oz-inspired set, highlighting the city’s strong ties to the enchantment of cinema. This opening act not only established the night’s mood but also evoked the enduring charm of The Wizard of Oz and its cultural importance in film history. The medley masterfully combined nostalgia with modern elements, making it an ideal prelude to a night of cinematic celebration.
The 2025 Academy Awards were a memorable evening filled with surprises, emotional speeches, and unforgettable performances that honored the art of filmmaking and the personal narratives of its creators. The stunning Anora sweep and Adrien Brody’s touching Oscar win highlighted the profound impact of cinema on inspiring and moving audiences.
The night not only celebrated outstanding performances and innovative films but also highlighted the human bonds that make the film industry so intriguing. Personal moments like Kieran Culkin’s humorous plea for more children and the homage to Gene Hackman served as a reminder that the stars on stage are just as relatable as those watching from home.
The ceremony highlighted the broader societal influence of film, underscoring the importance of diversity, representation, and the stories of underrepresented communities. Zoe Saldaña’s heartfelt acceptance speech for Emilia Pérez was a poignant moment that resonated with the audience, showcasing Hollywood’s progress in embracing diverse narratives. The evening also honoured real-life heroes, such as the members of the Los Angeles Fire Department, highlighting the Oscars’ role in recognising not only cinematic achievements but also the everyday acts of courage and sacrifice that often go unrecognised.
The remarkable performances, including the Wizard of Oz-inspired musical medley and Timothée Chalamet’s daring fashion choice, brought a lively energy to the night, fusing nostalgia with contemporary style. The Oscars reaffirmed their role as not just a commemoration of filmmaking excellence but as a worldwide cultural phenomenon that unites people through stories, music, and collective experiences for years ahead.
