The 97th Academy Awards weren’t just a celebration of cinema—they were a spectacle, a constellation of Hollywood’s brightest stars illuminating the Dolby Theatre on a night of grandeur, surprises, and cultural milestones. From a red carpet that blurred the lines between old Hollywood elegance and modern rebellion to a ceremony that saw both expected triumphs and stunning upsets, the evening was a cinematic event.
The Red Carpet: A Fashion Universe of Its Own
Before a single envelope was opened, the night’s first act unfolded on the red carpet, where couture and personality collided in a dazzling display. The Prom-Core phenomenon dominated, with stars embracing crystal-drenched gowns and statuesque silhouettes. Demi Moore shimmered in a silver Giorgio Armani Privé creation, while Selena Gomez exuded vintage romance in a Ralph Lauren masterpiece adorned with crystal teardrops. Meanwhile, Cynthia Erivo once again proved her status as a sartorial visionary in an avant-garde Louis Vuitton ensemble that blurred the lines between art and attire.
Menswear saw a renaissance of risk-taking: Timothée Chalamet turned heads in an audacious yellow Givenchy by Sarah Burton suit that redefined red-carpet masculinity, and Colman Domingo’s red-and-black Valentino look was a masterclass in bold sophistication.
The Ceremony: A Night of Triumphs and Twists
Anora: The Indie Gem That Ruled the 97th Academy Awards
In a night filled with cinematic triumphs and unexpected turns, Anora emerged as the crowning jewel of the 97th Academy Awards, sweeping five of the biggest categories: Best Picture, Best Director (Sean Baker), Best Actress (Mikey Madison), Best Original Screenplay and Best Film Editing.
Mikey Madison’s transformative performance as Ani secured her the Best Actress award, cementing her as Hollywood’s next powerhouse talent. The film’s win for Best Original Screenplay highlights its razor-sharp writing—equal parts tender, tragic, and bitingly humorous—while Best Film Editing underscores the kinetic energy that propels the narrative forward.
Lights, Legends, and Legacy: The Standout Winners of the 97th Academy Awards
At the 97th Academy Awards, several notable achievements highlighted the evening. Adrien Brody earned his second Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal of László Tóth in The Brutalist, a role that showcased his profound depth and versatility. The film also garnered the Best Cinematography award, with Lol Crawley’s work capturing the stark beauty and emotional gravity of the narrative.
Kieran Culkin’s performance in A Real Pain earned him the Best Supporting Actor accolade, reflecting his ability to bring nuanced characters to life.
In the realm of visual storytelling, Wicked stood out by winning Best Costume Design, with Paul Tazewell making history as the first Black man to receive this honor, celebrating his innovative and culturally resonant designs.
Twist and Controversy: Did The Substance Deserve Better at the 97th Oscars?
The 97th Academy Awards were rife with anticipation, particularly for Demi Moore’s performance in The Substance, which had garnered significant acclaim throughout the awards season. Despite expectations, Moore did not secure the Best Actress Oscar, leading to discussions about whether The Substance received the recognition it deserved. This outcome has sparked conversations about potential snubs and the complexities of awards recognition.
“The 97th Academy Awards proved that Hollywood still thrives on spectacle, surprises, and storytelling that lingers long after the night ends.”
Performances That Left the Room Breathless
Beyond the awards, the night’s musical performances electrified the audience. A show-stopping James Bond tribute saw Blackpink’s Lisa, Doja Cat, and Raye deliver a sultry, high-energy medley that oozed espionage glamour. The Best Original Song winner, performed live, became an instant classic, leaving chills in its wake. Unexpected collaborations and on-stage chemistry between artists added a layer of spontaneity to an otherwise meticulously orchestrated night.
The Aftermath: After-Parties, Viral Moments, and Internet Frenzy
As the official ceremony wrapped, the night was far from over. At the Vanity Fair and Gucci after-parties, celebrities let loose in couture ensembles that pushed boundaries even further. Social media ignited with viral moments—from Timothée Chalamet and Kylie Jenner’s whispered exchanges to candid snapshots of nominees toasting their statuettes.
Memes were born, debates flared, and Hollywood’s digital pulse beat faster than ever as the world dissected, celebrated, and occasionally ridiculed the night’s most outrageous moments.
The 97th Oscars’ Legacy: A Night That Will Shape the Future
Beyond the gowns and golden statues, the 2025 Academy Awards cemented trends that will ripple across the industry. The rise of unconventional storytelling, the blurring of gendered fashion norms, and the continued push for diversity in both filmmaking and award recognition all signaled a shift in Hollywood’s DNA.
And as the last limousine disappeared into the Los Angeles night, golden statues in hand and champagne still flowing, one thing was certain: this starry night at the Oscars was one for the ages. The countdown to the 98th Academy Awards has already begun.
