The Surprises and Snubs of the 2025 Oscar Nominations
The announcement of the 2025 Oscars nominations has caused quite a stir, mirroring the excitement and tension that typically accompany this annual event. Expert predictions based on previous awards, such as the Golden Globes and Critics Choice, can hint at potential nominees; however, surprises and notable omissions inevitably keep fans and industry insiders on their toes. Amid the buzz, many anticipated contenders in the Best Picture category ultimately received nods, but several surprising exclusions have shifted the landscape significantly.
Notable Nominations
Among the expected nominees, actors like Demi Moore, Kieran Culkin, and Ariana Grande secured their places as frontrunners in their categories. Films such as Anora, The Brutalist, and Conclave are also in the running for the prestigious Best Picture award, reinforcing their status as major players in this year’s awards season. That said, the exclusion of certain anticipated names has added an unpredictable element to the Oscar race.
Key Snubs and Surprises
1. Gladiator II Overshadowed in Visual Effects
In a shocking turn of events, Ridley Scott’s highly anticipated sequel, Gladiator II, did not receive a nomination for Best Visual Effects. The film’s groundbreaking visual craftsmanship was praised, particularly in its stirring combat sequences. Instead, the nomination went to Alien: Romulus, a film that also belongs to the expansive mythology of Scott’s earlier works. This was a notable shift, especially given the mixed reception some of the film’s technological choices received.
2. Surprises in Best Original Screenplay
September 5, a gripping drama based on the events of the 1972 Olympics, garnered a surprise nomination for Best Original Screenplay. Many had predicted that Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers would claim this spot, but it was ultimately left off the list entirely, marking a significant surprise for audiences and critics alike. The absence of Challengers in multiple categories spreads the disappointment further, particularly given the acclaim for its anticipated storytelling.
3. Best Cinematography Snubs
Another eyebrow-raising omission came in the Best Cinematography category, where Conclave—a film celebrated for its stunning visuals directed by Stephane Fontaine—failed to secure a nomination. This snub is particularly surprising, considering its strong showing in other categories, which raises questions about voter preferences and the reception of its aesthetic achievements.
4. Original Score Exclusions
The Best Original Score segment also revealed significant snubs, particularly for Challengers. Despite the film’s memorable soundtrack by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, it was passed over for a nomination in favor of The Wild Robot, further compounding the pitfalls faced by Guadagnino’s film this season.
5. Best Actor Race Shakes Up
The competition for Best Actor has intensified, notably with Daniel Craig’s exclusion for his compelling role in Queer. This left the field open for Sebastian Stan, who received acclaim for his performance as Donald Trump in The Apprentice. Craig’s remarkable portrayal showcased a different emotional depth, making his voters’ choices all the more surprising.
6. Surprising Directorial Choices
Edward Berger’s lack of recognition in the Best Director category for Conclave marks a second consecutive year of snubs after his work in All Quiet on the Western Front. Berger’s artistry is undeniable, yet voters opted for different narratives this year, spotlighting James Mangold for A Complete Unknown instead, a decision that reshapes award expectations.
Missed Opportunities in Best Picture
1. Snubs for A Real Pain and Sing Sing
Notably absent from this year’s Best Picture nominations, A Real Pain failed to capitalize on its precursor nominations, raising eyebrows among fans. Similarly, Sing Sing, with its emotive narrative and engaging testimonials, missed the opportunity despite its critical acclaim and well-deserved nods for acting and screenwriting.
2. I’m Still Here: A Landmark Nomination
Conversely, I’m Still Here, an international feature from Brazil, made waves by securing a spot in the Best Picture category. This marks an unprecedented achievement for Brazilian cinema and showcases the diversity of storytelling reaching the Oscars stage. Fernanda Torres’ recognition as a potential Best Actress contender further enhances the film’s significance.
Conclusion
The 2025 Oscars nominations have undeniably stirred discussion with their mix of expected favorites and unexpected exclusions, marking a year of both triumphs and disappointments in the cinematic world. The conversations these choices generate reflect the evolving landscape of film and the response of Academy voters to a diversifying array of narratives and performances.
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