The 2025 Oscars are right around the corner.
Former late-night talk show host Conan O’Brien is set to host Hollywood’s biggest night, where stars such as Demi Moore, Ariana Grande, and Edward Norton are battling it out for the film industry’s top honors.
Here is everything you need to know about this year’s Academy Awards.
Your Guide to Watching the Oscars
The 2025 Oscars can be watched live on Sunday at 7 p.m. ET, airing on ABC. This year marks an exciting change: the award show will also be streamed live on Hulu, creating a more accessible viewing experience for audiences everywhere. For those who miss the observance, Hulu will make the entire ceremony available for streaming the following day. It’s a momentous occasion when the glamour of Hollywood meets the accessibility of modern streaming services.
Spotlighting This Year’s Nominees
This year’s nominations are fresh and dynamic, with many first-time contenders rising from the depths of indie projects to the heights of golden statuettes. Leading the pack is Demi Moore, who has already secured both a Golden Globe and a Critics Choice Award for her brilliant portrayal in “The Substance.” This compelling narrative, alongside films like “Emilia Perez” and “I’m Still Here,” has set the stage for a thrilling race, capturing the imagination of cinema enthusiasts everywhere.
Among the exciting list of first-time nominees in the lead actress category, Fernanda Torres and Karla Sofía Gascón shine brightly. Both were unsuspecting but pivotal in their performances. Each nominee demonstrates that talent transcends experience, a reminder that Hollywood is often about breakthrough moments.
Noteworthy Snubs That Spark Debate
The landscape of nominations is often as intriguing as the winners themselves, especially when glaring omissions come to light. Angelina Jolie, anticipated by many for her role in “Maria,” was unexpected. Similarly, Pamela Anderson’s touching performance in “The Last Showgirl” left viewers bewildered when she wasn’t included in the nominations. A whispered conversation that fills the air with discussions of what could have been is part of what makes the Oscars so engaging.
Nicole Kidman also faced an unexpected absence this year, having garnered significant acclaim for her portrayal in “Babygirl.” Her snub resonates with audiences, reminding them that triumph isn’t always awarded with recognition, sometimes leaving behind a lingering sense of injustice.
Presenters: A Celebration of Talented Alumni
This year, the Oscars welcome back luminaries such as Goldie Hawn and Halle Berry to present awards. Their impressive history makes them fitting voices for this cherished night. Emma Stone and Cillian Murphy will provide a nod to the promising careers of the new faces while honoring last year’s winners. The presence of past nominees, like Oprah Winfrey and Ana de Armas, creates a tapestry woven with both nostalgia and anticipation.
A New Era for Performances
For the first time, the performances at the Oscars will shift focus from the songs themselves to the brilliant songwriters behind them. This approach honors creativity in a profound, contemplative way. While some may miss the familiar tunes, artists such as Doja Cat and Queen Latifah will still grace the stage, leaving audiences with memorable performances that resonate beyond the screen. The choice to include Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo in a special collaborative performance hints at the show’s willingness to innovate.
