**Oscars 2025: All You Need to Know About the Nominations and Ceremony**

The article dives deep into the top contenders, nominees, and the cultural impact of this year's Academy Awards.

The excitement is palpable as the film industry gears up for the 97th Academy Awards, a night where stars align to celebrate cinematic brilliance. Leading the nominations is the Spanish-language musical *Emilia Pérez*, which has garnered 13 nominations including best picture and best actress for Karla Sofía Gascón, the first trans actress to receive an acting nod. However, the film's accolades were recently clouded by resurfacing problematic tweets from Gascón, sparking debate among film fans.

The competition is fierce this year, with *The Brutalist*, *Wicked*, *Conclave*, and *Anora* also vying for prestigious awards. US comedian Conan O'Brien is set to host the ceremony, which commences at 16:00 (PT) and features added significance as it coincides with the aftermath of devastating wildfires in Los Angeles.

Among the major films, *The Brutalist* follows with 10 nominations, showcasing a stellar performance from Adrien Brody. Meanwhile, Demi Moore earns her first Oscar nomination for her transformative role in *The Substance*. The nominations reflect the continuing evolution of diversity within the industry, with people of color featured prominently in both leading categories.

Following an unpredictable award season, surprises are expected as actors like Timothée Chalamet aim to disrupt the status quo. Chalamet, who has already claimed a SAG Award for his portrayal of Bob Dylan in *A Complete Unknown*, is likely to face strong competition from Brody. In the supporting categories, Zoe Saldaña is the likely frontrunner for her acclaimed role in *Emilia Pérez*, while Kieran Culkin leads for *A Real Pain*.

Reflecting on the progress regarding representation, it’s noteworthy that *The Substance*’s Coralie Fargeat stands as the lone female director nominated in a mostly male-dominated category. April Reign, founder of the #OscarsSoWhite initiative, emphasizes that while progress has been made, it isn't enough.

The ceremony will also address the devastating wildfires that impacted thousands in LA, with commitments from the Academy to acknowledge the hardships while celebrating cinematic excellence. As for performances, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande are set to mesmerize audiences with live renditions from *Wicked*, breaking from the tradition of performing original song nominees.

Fans can catch the live broadcast of the Oscars on Sunday, March 2, 2025, from the Dolby Theatre, with coverage in over 200 territories worldwide. UK viewers can tune in via ITV and ITVX.

In anticipation of the ceremony, the excitement is further stoked by the prospects of longstanding actors like Ralph Fiennes and Wallace & Gromit's Aardman Animations competing in various categories. As Hollywood rolls out the red carpet, all eyes will be on these nominations, performances, and landmark moments yet to unfold.