The Stars Align: Everything You Need to Know About the 97th Academy Awards
Lights, camera, action! The Dolby Theatre in Hollywood is buzzing with anticipation as the 97th Academy Awards ceremony prepares to honor the cinematic triumphs of 2024. The red carpet is rolled out, the champagne is chilling, and the biggest names in Hollywood are arriving in style for a night dedicated to celebrating artistry and storytelling. Get ready for an evening of glamour, surprises, and heartfelt moments as the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences recognizes the best films and talent of the year.
A Stellar Lineup of Nominees
This year’s nominations showcase a diverse range of films, from sweeping historical epics to whimsical fantasy adventures. Leading the charge is the Netflix crime musical "Emilia Pérez," which has garnered an impressive 13 nominations. Hot on its heels are "The Brutalist," a nearly four-hour historical drama, and "Wicked," the highly anticipated fantasy musical blockbuster, each boasting 10 nominations.
The coveted Best Picture category features a stacked lineup of contenders, representing a wide spectrum of genres and cinematic styles. Alongside "Emilia Pérez," "The Brutalist," and "Wicked," the nominees include:
- "Anora" – This film is generating significant buzz, possibly due to its unique narrative or star performances.
- "A Complete Unknown" – A mysterious title suggests a potentially groundbreaking or unconventional film.
- "Conclave" – This film’s title evokes suspense and intrigue, hinting at a dramatic or politically charged story.
- "I’m Still Here" – A title full of emotion, suggesting a story of perseverance and resilience.
- "The Substance" – A film with a provocative title, possibly exploring deeper themes or complex characters.
- "Dune: Part Two" – The epic sci-fi sequel continues its journey, showcasing stunning visuals and a compelling narrative.
- "Nickel Boys" – A powerful film likely addressing important social or historical issues.
The competition is fierce, and the outcome is anyone’s guess. Will "Conclave" or "Anora" ultimately take home the coveted Best Picture award? Only time will tell.
A Night of Performances and Tributes
While the traditional performances of Best Original Song nominees are absent this year, the show promises an array of captivating performances. A stellar lineup of artists, including Doja Cat, Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Lisa of Blackpink, Queen Latifah, and Raye, will grace the stage with numbers that celebrate the filmmaking community and its legendary figures.
Beyond the musical performances, the Academy aims to highlight the artistry of songwriters and musicians through personal reflections and stories. The telecast will delve into the inspirations and creative processes behind some of the most memorable songs in cinematic history, providing a deeper appreciation for the power of music in film.
Conan O’Brien Takes the Helm
Adding a touch of humor and wit to the evening, Conan O’Brien will host the 2025 Oscars. The former late-night TV star brings his signature comedic style to the grand stage, marking his first time hosting the prestigious film awards ceremony. While O’Brien is new to the Oscars, he’s no stranger to hosting major awards shows, having previously emceed the Emmys in 2002 and 2006.
In a lighthearted statement announcing his hosting gig, O’Brien joked, "America demanded it and now it’s happening: Taco Bell’s new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme. In other news, I’m hosting the Oscars."
His comedic timing and quick wit are sure to keep the audience entertained throughout the night.
How to Watch the Oscars
The 97th Academy Awards are set to commence at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT. For those eager to catch a glimpse of the stars before the main event, the official live red carpet show, hosted by Julianne Hough and Jesse Palmer, will air at 6:30 p.m. ET / 3:30 p.m. PT on ABC.
Here are several ways to watch the Oscars:
- ABC and the ABC app: The show will air live on ABC and the ABC app (with cable subscription).
- Streaming services: Stream the awards ceremony live on Hulu, YouTubeTV, AT&T TV, and FuboTV.
- FuboTV: New users can take advantage of a free trial to watch the Oscars.
The Dolby Theatre: A Hollywood Landmark
The Dolby Theatre in Hollywood serves as the perfect backdrop for the Academy Awards. The state-of-the-art theatre, designed with the Oscars broadcast in mind, boasts a seating capacity of 3,300. The venue, previously known as the Kodak Theatre, has hosted the awards ceremony since 2001, solidifying its place as a Hollywood landmark.
Stay Connected
The 97th Academy Awards promises to be a night to remember, filled with unforgettable moments, stunning performances, and deserving recognition of cinematic excellence. Tune in to witness the magic unfold and celebrate the art of filmmaking.
Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #Oscars and follow live updates from various news outlets, including USA TODAY. Don’t miss a single moment of this spectacular event!
The 97th Academy Awards will air live on ABC from 7 to 10 p.m. ET / 4 to 7 p.m. PT. Get ready for an evening of glamour, excitement, and cinematic celebration.
Behind the Scenes
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is dedicated to celebrating and preserving the art of filmmaking. Its members, composed of talented individuals from various branches of the industry, meticulously evaluate and nominate the films and artists that deserve recognition.
The Oscars telecast is a massive undertaking, involving countless professionals working behind the scenes to ensure a seamless and captivating experience for viewers worldwide. From the set design and lighting to the sound and camera work, every detail is carefully crafted to create a visually stunning and emotionally resonant event.
The Academy also works to promote film education and preservation through various initiatives, ensuring that future generations can appreciate and learn from the rich history of cinema. The Oscars serve as a platform to celebrate the past, present, and future of filmmaking, inspiring artists and audiences alike.
