The 97th Academy Awards was a night to remember, with “Anora” being the biggest winner, taking home five Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director (Sean Baker), and Best Actress (Mikey Madison). Hosted by the always-entertaining Conan O’Brien, the event gathered Hollywood’s best and brightest for an evening of celebration, emotional speeches, and record-breaking wins.
Independent Films Take the Lead: “Anora” Paves the Way
Sean Baker’s “Anora” was the night’s big winner, showing that independent films are not to be underestimated in Hollywood. Filmed with a small $6 million budget, “Anora” held its own against high-cost blockbusters Dune: Part Two and Wicked. Baker, who was also awarded Best Director, took his moment on stage to advocate for independent cinema and the need for movie theaters.
“Where did we fall in love with movies? At the theater. Watching films together is a communal experience, one that we’re in danger of losing,” Baker entreated. His heartfelt appeal to patronize independent theaters rang true at a time when streaming reigns supreme.
Adrien Brody’s Triumphant Return
In a thrilling moment, Adrien Brody won his second Best Actor Oscar for The Brutalist, over two decades after his first win for The Pianist in 2003. Brody’s gripping performance in The Brutalist solidified his legacy, making him one of the few actors to have multiple Best Actor wins.
Mikey Madison’s Powerful Acceptance Speech
Best Actress winner, Mikey Madison, thanked the sex worker community, which was at the core of Anora. Her honest and impassioned speech was reflective of her activism:
“To the amazing women I’ve encountered throughout this experience—I see you, I support you, and I will forever be your ally.”
Madison’s victory was a watershed moment in her career, as her performance in Anora demonstrated her impressive range and depth.
Honoring Legends: A Night of Emotional Tributes
The ceremony also spared a moment to pay tribute to Hollywood legends who passed away recently. Morgan Freeman dedicated a moment to the late Gene Hackman, who recently deceased. In the meantime, Oprah Winfrey, Whoopi Goldberg, and Queen Latifah paid their respects to Quincy Jones, the iconic music producer who left his mark on the business.
A Celebration of Cinematic Excellence
Beginning from Kieran Culkin’s (A Real Pain) and Zoe Saldaña’s (Emilia Pérez) supporting award victories to the accolades to the courageous firefighters who fought the Los Angeles wildfires, the 2025 Oscars was an evening of encouragement, celebration, and gripping narratives.
Leading the charge with “Anora,” the future of independent filmmaking has never seemed so bright.
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