Hollywood’s biggest night just got bigger, bolder, and more breathtaking than ever. The 97th Academy Awards, held on March 2, 2025, at the iconic Dolby Theatre, was a rollercoaster of emotions, surprises, and pure cinematic magic. As your go-to source for all things urban and cutting-edge, The Urban Herald brings you the inside scoop on this year’s Oscars 2025 extravaganza.
‘Anora’ steals the show
Let’s cut to the chase – “Anora” was the undisputed star of the evening at the Oscars 2025. This gritty, genre-bending masterpiece from the mind of Sean Baker swept the awards like a tornado through a trailer park. With five golden statuettes to its name, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay, “Anora” left the competition in the dust.
But here’s the kicker – it wasn’t just the big categories that “Anora” dominated. The film’s lead, Mikey Madison, snagged Best Actress in a jaw-dropping upset that had even the most seasoned critics picking their jaws up off the floor. At just 25 years old, Madison delivered an emotional acceptance speech that solidified her status as Hollywood’s latest sweetheart. Sorry, Demi Moore, but this year belonged to the new kid on the block.
A night of comebacks and breakthroughs
Speaking of comebacks, can we talk about Adrien Brody? The man waltzed away with his second Best Actor Oscar for “The Brutalist,” a full two decades after his first win. Talk about playing the long game! Brody’s acceptance speech was so long it had poor John Lithgow looking “slightly disappointed” as he tried to play him off. But hey, when you’ve waited 20 years for another win, you’ve earned the right to ramble.
But it wasn’t all about the old guard. Kieran Culkin finally stepped out of his brother’s shadow, nabbing Best Supporting Actor for “A Real Pain”. And let’s not forget Zoe Saldaña’s tear-jerking acceptance speech for Best Supporting Actress. The “Emilia Pérez” star got emotional talking about her family and grandmother, reminding us all that behind every great performance is a lifetime of love and support.
More than just movies
This year’s Oscars weren’t just about handing out shiny trophies. Host Conan O’Brien kicked things off with a bang, leading a “Wizard of Oz”-inspired musical number that had Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo belting their hearts out. Who knew the ginger giant had such smooth moves?
But it wasn’t all glitz and glamour. In a touching tribute to the recent Los Angeles wildfires, the Academy brought real-life heroes – firefighters – onto the stage. It was a moment that reminded us all that there are stars beyond Hollywood, and some of them wear helmets instead of designer gowns.
The Oscars 2025 were a true celebration of cinematic achievement, showcasing the talents of filmmakers and actors from around the globe.
Breaking barriers and making history
The Oscars 2025 will go down in history for more than just the winners. “Emilia Pérez” smashed records with multiple nominations, showcasing the growing recognition of non-English language films. And in a groundbreaking moment, the Academy continued its push for diversity and inclusion, with nominees representing a wide range of backgrounds and experiences.
Fashion frenzy
Now, let’s dish about the red carpet, shall we? Timothée Chalamet turned heads (and probably a few stomachs) with a canary yellow suit that was visible from space. Bold move, Timmy. Bold move.
Meanwhile, the after-party scene was a fashion extravaganza all its own. Kim Kardashian and Lauren S. showed up in matching white dresses, serving impromptu bridal party realness. And let’s not forget Julia Fox, who true to form, showed up in an outfit that was more air than fabric. Never change, Julia. Never change.
The after-party scoop
Word on the street is that the Vanity Fair after-party was where the real action happened. Zoe Saldaña was spotted in the center of it all, Oscar in one hand and In-N-Out burger in the other. Now that’s how you celebrate!
Sources say they spotted Sean Baker breakdancing with his Oscar statuettes, while Adrien Brody was seen giving impromptu piano recitals to his proud parents. Timothée Chalamet and Kylie Jenner were caught holding hands, setting the gossip mill ablaze. Now that’s a party we’d crash in a heartbeat!
As the confetti settles and the champagne bottles empty, one thing’s clear – the 97th Academy Awards were one for the books. “Anora” may have stolen the show, but every nominee and winner contributed to a night that celebrated the magic of movies and the power of storytelling.
So, there you have it, folks – your ultimate rundown of Oscars 2025. From shocking upsets to heartwarming moments, this year’s ceremony had it all. Now, if you’ll excuse us, we’ve got a whole bunch of award-winning films to binge-watch. Pass the popcorn, will you?
