2025 Oscars: 'Wicked' And 'The Brutalist' Lead Nominations

Kieran Culkin accepts the award for best performance by an actor in a supporting role for "A Real Pain" during the Oscars on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Chris

The 97th Academy Awards have commenced at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, with 'Emilia Pérez' leading the nominations race with 13 nods, closely followed by 'Wicked' and 'The Brutalist.' The event opened with a spectacular musical performance featuring Ariana Grande singing 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow' from 'The Wizard of Oz,' setting the stage for a night of glamour and celebration.

Winners and Standouts

The Oscar for best adapted screenplay went to 'Conclave,' written by Peter Straughan based on a novel by Robert Harris. Sean Baker's comedy 'Anora' clinched the award for best original screenplay, while Iranian filmmakers Shirin Sohani and Hossein Molayemi won best animated short film for 'In the Shadow of the Cypress.'

Kieran Culkin secured the best supporting actor award for his role in 'A Real Pain,' marking a significant achievement in his career. The host, Conan O'Brien, kicked off the show with his signature humor, setting a lively tone for the evening.

Oscar Voting Process

Ariana Grande opens with 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow.'

Emilia Pérez leads nominations with 13 nods.

Winners include 'Conclave,' 'Anora,' and 'In the Shadow of the Cypress.'

Kieran Culkin wins best supporting actor for 'A Real Pain.'

Conan O'Brien hosts with humor and energy.

Voting involves 10,500 global Academy members.

Demi Moore reunites with Whoopi Goldberg on the red carpet.

Guy Pearce wears 'FREE PALESTINE' pin for advocacy.

Brandi Carlile discusses collaboration with Elton John.

Stars use fashion to convey political messages.

The Academy Awards' voting system involves around 10,500 global members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The voting process varies across categories, with a ranked choice system in place for the best picture award, ensuring a fair and comprehensive selection process.

Notable Moments

Demi Moore shared a heartwarming reunion with her 'Ghost' co-star Whoopi Goldberg on the red carpet, while actor Guy Pearce made a statement by wearing a 'FREE PALESTINE' pin, advocating for a cause close to his heart.

Despite its critical acclaim, the documentary 'No Other Land' faced minimal coverage in Israeli media due to ongoing sensitive issues in the region. Brandi Carlile, a first-time Oscar nominee, discussed her collaboration with Elton John on the song 'Never Too Late,' nominated for best original song.

Fashion and Politics

Several stars used their red carpet appearances to convey political messages, with fashion statements carrying symbolic meanings. From advocating for conflict-ridden nations to showing solidarity with Ukraine, celebrities made bold statements through their attire.

Overall, the 97th Academy Awards showcased a blend of talent, emotion, and advocacy, highlighting the power of cinema to inspire, entertain, and provoke thought.