The nominations for the 2025 Oscars were announced this morning. The event, which will take place on March 2nd, rewards the best movies of the year, celebrating the filmmakers, craftspeople, designers, engineers, performers, and more who played pivotal roles in creating memorable art.
This year was groundbreaking for many reasons. "The Substance," a horror film about ageism and misogyny, earned nominations in some of the major categories of the year. The horror genre, despite being associated with powerful acting, is not one that the Academy tends to reward, and it's exciting to see the industry shifting to reflect the evolving times. "Emilia Perez", a French film exploring the story of a Mexican drug lord who transitions from male to female, was also one of the most nominated films of the year. Its lead star, Karla Sofia Gascon, made history as the first openly trans woman to be nominated as a lead actress.
Despite all the celebrations, there were various major performances and films that weren't nominated. Scroll down to learn more:
Angelina Jolie, for Maria
At the start of awards season, critics and fans believed Angelina Jolie was a shoo-in for best actress at the Oscars for her work in "Maria." Not only did she learn how to sing for the Opera but Jolie also fit a narrative that Hollywood loves, that of a veteran and beloved actress making a comeback after years of personal turmoil. Despite her nomination in the Golden Globes and other major awards this season, there was no room for her at this year's Oscars.
Selena Gomez, for Emilia Perez
After getting the best actress award at Cannes, which she shared with her co-stars Zoe Saldaña, Gascon, and Adriana Paz, Selena Gomez has been in awards conversation for the vast majority of 2024. She was nominated for two Golden Globes for her acting in the TV show "Only Murders in the Building" and the film "Emilia Perez."
The score of 'Challengers'
"Challengers" came out early in 2024, affecting the odds of Academy voters casting their votes for it come awards season. Still, the score, made by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, who are also in the band Nine Inch Nails, is amazing and was recognized by the Golden Globes, prompting excitement from fans who believed this meant the film might get some love at the Oscars.
How do I watch the Oscars?
The 97 edition of the Academy Awards will be hosted on Sunday, March 2nd. The show kicks off at 7 pm ET and can be watched on cable on your local ABC channel or in services like Hulu Live TV, YouTubeTV, AT&T TV, and FuboTV. Many of these streaming apps provide free trials. Make a plan with time and you'll be able to enjoy the historic occasion without spending much.