The 97th Academy Awards: A Comprehensive Guide to Hollywood’s Biggest Night
Roll out the red carpet, let the flashbulbs pop, and prepare for an evening of glitz, glamour, and cinematic celebration. It’s time for the 2025 Oscars, where Hollywood’s elite will gather to honor the best and brightest achievements in film from the past year. The 97th Academy Awards are poised to be a spectacular event, brimming with anticipation, surprises, and unforgettable moments. This year’s ceremony promises a star-studded affair, showcasing the creative brilliance and storytelling power that defines the world of cinema.
The festivities commence on Sunday evening with the highly anticipated red carpet event, offering viewers a glimpse of the dazzling fashion and pre-ceremony buzz. Following the red carpet spectacle, the main event will unfold, celebrating the outstanding movies of 2024 and the talented individuals who brought them to life.
Nominations for this year’s prestigious awards were revealed last month by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, encompassing a diverse and compelling range of films. From sweeping historical dramas to enchanting fantasy musicals, the nominees represent the breadth and depth of cinematic artistry.
Leading the pack with a remarkable 13 Oscar nominations is Netflix’s captivating crime musical, "Emilia Pérez." This critically acclaimed film has captivated audiences with its unique blend of genres and compelling performances, making it a frontrunner in several key categories. Close behind are the epic historical drama "The Brutalist" and the visually stunning fantasy musical "Wicked," both garnering an impressive 10 nominations each. These three films are expected to be major contenders throughout the evening, vying for top honors in various categories.
The night’s most coveted prize, Best Picture, features a stacked lineup of exceptional films, showcasing the diversity and artistic merit of the year’s cinematic offerings. In addition to "Emilia Pérez," "The Brutalist," and "Wicked," the nominees include a range of compelling narratives, such as "Anora," "A Complete Unknown," "Conclave," "I’m Still Here," "The Substance," "Dune: Part Two," and "Nickel Boys." Each film brings a unique perspective and artistic vision to the table, promising a highly competitive race for the ultimate accolade.
So, how can you immerse yourself in the magic of the 2025 Oscars? Here’s everything you need to know about entertainment’s biggest night, including how to watch and what to expect:
When and Where to Watch:
The 2025 Oscars are scheduled to commence at 7 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) / 4 p.m. Pacific Time (PT) on Sunday, March 2nd. The official live red carpet show, hosted by Julianne Hough and Jesse Palmer, will precede the main ceremony, airing at 6:30 p.m. ET / 3:30 p.m. PT on ABC.
Where to Watch:
The 97th Academy Awards will be broadcast live on ABC and the ABC app (for cable subscribers) from 7 to 10 p.m. ET / 4 to 7 p.m. PT. For those without cable subscriptions, you can also stream the awards ceremony live on popular platforms such as Hulu, YouTubeTV, AT&T TV, and FuboTV.
The Venue:
The Dolby Theatre in Hollywood will once again serve as the iconic venue for the Academy Awards. The theatre, formerly known as the Kodak Theatre, has been the home of the Oscars since 2001. Located inside the Ovation Hollywood shopping center, the state-of-the-art theatre was specifically designed with the Academy Awards broadcast in mind, boasting a seating capacity of 3,300.
The Host:
Adding a touch of comedic brilliance to the evening, Conan O’Brien will be hosting the 2025 Oscars. This marks the former late-night TV star’s first time hosting the prestigious film awards ceremony. O’Brien’s wit and charm are sure to bring laughter and entertainment to the proceedings. The comedian has previously hosted the Emmys in 2002 and 2006, showcasing his talent for hosting major awards shows. "America demanded it and now it’s happening: Taco Bell’s new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme. In other news, I’m hosting the Oscars," the comedian joked in a statement announcing his hosting gig.
The Performances:
While the Oscars will forgo the traditional performances of the tunes nominated for Best Original Song, the night will be filled with captivating performances by a lineup of renowned artists. Doja Cat, Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Lisa of Blackpink, Queen Latifah, and Raye are all set to take the stage, delivering numbers that, according to producers, will be "celebrating the filmmaking community and some of its legends."
Beyond the Awards:
The Oscars are more than just an awards ceremony; they are a celebration of the art of filmmaking, a showcase of creativity and innovation, and a platform for recognizing the hard work and dedication of the individuals who bring stories to life on the silver screen. From the red carpet glamour to the emotional acceptance speeches, the Oscars are a cultural phenomenon that captivates audiences worldwide.
So, mark your calendars, gather your friends, and prepare to witness the magic of the 2025 Oscars. It’s an evening you won’t want to miss! Tune in to see who will take home the coveted golden statues and celebrate the best in film from the past year. Enjoy the show!
