Chicago March 3, 2025
The 97th Academy Awards saw many smiling faces, but one film stood out: “Anora,” directed by Sean Baker, took home the top film prize. Baker also won four Oscars, and the film’s star, Mikey Madison, was crowned Best Actress.
Adrien Brody won his second Best Actor Oscar for his performance in “The Brutalist,” 22 years after winning for “The Pianist.” His emotional speech moved the audience.
The ceremony also honored firefighters who battled recent wildfires, and Mick Jagger presented the Best Original Song award. Timothée Chalamet’s bright yellow suit was a highlight of the night.
One of the most emotional moments came when Saldaña accepted the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in “Emilia Pérez.” She tearfully dedicated her award to her grandmother, who immigrated to the US in 1961. Saldaña became the first American of Dominican origin to win an Oscar.
Saldaña’s win capped off a successful awards season, where she swept the Golden Globe, Critics’ Choice, BAFTA, and SAG awards for her portrayal of lawyer Rita Mora Castro.
