The 2025 Oscars: A Night of Triumphs, Surprises, and Streaming Sensations
The curtain has fallen on the 2025 Academy Awards, leaving in its wake a shimmering trail of dazzling red carpet fashion, witty (and predictably topical) barbs from host Conan O’Brien, and, most importantly, a collection of films rightfully honored for their artistry and storytelling. While the night undeniably belonged to "Anora," with its impressive haul of five Oscars, the wealth was spread across a diverse spectrum of cinematic achievements, with a total of fourteen different movies earning at least one coveted golden statuette.
Let’s dive into the winners, celebrate their victories, and most importantly, point you in the direction of where you can experience these award-winning films for yourself.
"Anora": The Reigning Queen of the Oscars
The undisputed champion of the evening was undoubtedly "Anora," a film that captivated audiences and critics alike. It swept through the major categories, proving its dominance and solidifying its place in cinematic history. "Anora" clinched the prestigious Best Picture award, signaling its status as the best film of the year. The film also secured the Best Director award for its visionary director, solidifying their place among the greats. The film’s leading lady delivered a performance for the ages, securing the Best Actress in a Leading Role award. The captivating story of Anora resonated with viewers, securing the Best Original Screenplay award. The fast-paced and engaging editing of the film secured the award for Best Editing.
For those eager to witness the magic of "Anora," it is currently available to rent via Prime Video.
"The Brutalist": A Close Second with Triple the Honors
While "Anora" dominated the headlines, "The Brutalist" emerged as a strong contender, garnering a respectable three awards from its ten nominations. The star of the film secured the Best Actor in a Leading Role award for their transformative performance. The stunning visuals of the film were also praised by critics, securing the Best Cinematography award. Lastly, the haunting and unforgettable score secured the award for Best Original Score.
"The Brutalist" is also available to rent on Prime Video.
"Wicked": A Touch of Magic for Costumes and Design
The highly anticipated adaptation of the beloved musical, "Wicked," may have fallen short of expectations in some categories, but it still managed to conjure up two well-deserved wins. The film’s elaborate costumes and elaborate production design earned the award for Best Costumes and Best Production Design.
Starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, "Wicked" is available for rent on Amazon Prime Video.
"Dune Part Two": Sound and Vision Victorious
Despite its grand ambitions, "Dune Part Two" didn’t achieve the Best Picture win many predicted. However, it still left its mark on the ceremony, securing awards for its immersive sound design and groundbreaking visual effects. "Dune Part Two" secured the Best Sound award and Best Visual Effects award.
Fans can currently stream "Dune Part Two" on Max.
"Emilia Perez": A Supporting Win and a Song to Remember
"Emilia Perez," leading the nomination race with thirteen nods, walked away with two Academy Awards, underscoring its impact on the cinematic landscape. Zoe Saldana earned the Best Actress in a Supporting Role award for their memorable performance. The captivating soundtrack of the film also earned the award for Best Original Song.
"Emilia Perez" is available to stream on Netflix.
"A Real Pain": Culkin’s Victory Lap Continues
Kieran Culkin continued his awards season reign, securing the film’s only Oscar for Best Actor in a Supporting Role.
"A Real Pain" can be streamed on Hulu.
"Conclave": Adapted Success for a Surprise Contender
Despite whispers of a potential Best Picture upset, "Conclave" ultimately secured just one award: Best Adapted Screenplay.
"Conclave" is available to stream on Peacock.
"The Substance": Beauty Beneath the Surface, Awarded
While Demi Moore’s performance may not have garnered the recognition it deserved, "The Substance" still celebrated a victory with its win for Best Makeup and Hairstyling, highlighting the transformative power of these artistic crafts.
You can rent "The Substance" on Amazon Prime Video.
"While I’m Still Here": International Acclaim and Apple Anticipation
The Brazilian nominee, "While I’m Still Here," triumphed in the Best International Film category, showcasing the global reach of compelling storytelling.
While not yet available for streaming, "While I’m Still Here" can be pre-ordered through Apple TV.
"Flow": An Animated Upset with Heart
"Flow," the Latvian film about a cat, defied expectations and secured the Best Animated Film award, beating out contenders like "Inside Out 2" and "The Wild Robot," proving that emotional resonance can triumph over commercial giants.
"Flow" is available to stream on Hulu.
Short but Sweet: Honoring the Short Film Form
The Academy also recognized excellence in short filmmaking across different genres:
- The winner for Best Documentary Feature Film is unavailable to watch in the U.S.
- The winner for Best Live Action Short is available to watch on YouTube.
- The winner for Best Documentary Short is available to watch on Netflix.
- The winner for Best Animated Short Film is available to rent via Vimeo.
The 2025 Oscars were a testament to the power of storytelling, celebrating a diverse range of voices and artistic visions. From the grand sweep of "Anora" to the quiet triumphs of short films, the awards highlighted the enduring magic of cinema and its ability to move, inspire, and entertain audiences worldwide. Now, with these films readily available on various streaming platforms, you have the opportunity to experience the award-winning magic for yourself.
