The 97th Academy Awards, held on March 2, 2025, delivered a night of surprises, emotional speeches, and record-breaking wins. The biggest moment of the evening came when Sean Baker’s ‘Anora’ was announced as the Best Picture winner, triumphing over an impressive lineup of nominees.
Best Picture Winner: ‘Anora’
Directed by Sean Baker, ‘Anora‘ is a gripping drama that follows Ani, a young dancer and sex worker who unexpectedly marries the son of a powerful Russian oligarch. The film, known for its raw storytelling and intimate cinematography, captured audiences and critics alike.
With a modest $6 million budget, ‘Anora‘ became one of the most talked-about independent films of the year. The film’s success at the Oscars cements Sean Baker as a powerhouse in independent cinema.
Oscar Wins for ‘Anora’
The film took home five Oscars:
- Best Picture
- Best Director (Sean Baker)
- Best Actress (Mikey Madison)
- Best Original Screenplay
- Best Film Editing
Other Best Picture Nominees and Highlights
The competition was fierce, featuring a mix of blockbusters, indie gems, and thought-provoking dramas. Here’s a look at the films that competed for Best Picture:
- ‘The Brutalist’ – A visually stunning historical drama starring Adrien Brody, who won Best Actor for his role.
- ‘A Complete Unknown’ – A biopic on Bob Dylan, with strong performances but no major wins.
- ‘Conclave’ – A political thriller set in the Vatican, praised for its intense storytelling.
- ‘Dune: Part Two’ – The sci-fi epic was a fan favorite, taking home multiple technical awards.
- ‘Emilia Pérez’ – Led the nominations with 13 nods, winning Best Supporting Actress for Zoe Saldaña.
- ‘I’m Still Here’ – A deeply personal film, but it left the ceremony empty-handed.
- ‘Nickel Boys’ – Adapted from the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, earning critical acclaim.
- ‘The Substance’ – A unique horror-drama that stood out for its bold storytelling.
- ‘Wicked’ – The highly anticipated musical adaptation was a crowd favorite.
Sean Baker Makes Oscar History
By winning Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Picture, Sean Baker became only the second person in history to take home four Oscars in one night. This achievement places him alongside legendary filmmakers and solidifies his status as a visionary director.
Mikey Madison’s Best Actress win for ‘Anora‘ was another major highlight, as she delivered an emotional speech thanking Baker for believing in her talent.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Oscars proved to be a night where independent cinema triumphed over big-budget productions. ‘Anora’, with its intimate storytelling and raw performances, emerged as the biggest winner, proving that powerful storytelling can outshine Hollywood spectacle.
As the industry moves forward, ‘Anora’s’ victory signals a shift in what audiences and the Academy value—bold, independent storytelling that leaves a lasting impact.
