The 97th Academy Awards, held on March 2, 2025, were filled with both celebrations and surprises. While films like "Anora" and "The Brutalist" took center stage, several notable performances and productions were conspicuously absent from the winner's circle. Here's a look at some of the most talked-about snubs of the evening.
Demi Moore's Anticipated Win Falls Short
Demi Moore, a seasoned actress with a career spanning decades, was widely expected to clinch the Best Actress award for her role in "The Last Showgirl." Her portrayal had garnered critical acclaim throughout the awards season. However, the Oscar went to Mikey Madison for "Anora," leaving many industry insiders and fans surprised.
"A Complete Unknown" Shut Out
James Mangold's "A Complete Unknown," a biopic about Bob Dylan starring Timothée Chalamet, entered the night with eight nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actor. Despite high expectations, the film did not secure any awards, marking one of the night's most significant shutouts.
Selena Gomez Overlooked for "Emilia Pérez"
"Emilia Pérez" led the nominations with 13 nods, and while Zoe Saldaña took home Best Supporting Actress, her co-star Selena Gomez was notably absent from the nominations. Gomez's performance had been praised, making her omission a point of discussion among critics and fans alike.
Angelina Jolie and Nicole Kidman Miss Out
Both Angelina Jolie, for her portrayal in the "Maria Callas" biopic, and Nicole Kidman, for her role in "Babygirl," were expected to be strong contenders this year. Their absence from the nominations highlighted a broader discussion about the Academy's evolving preferences and the increasing competition from international films.
"Flow" Surprises in Best Animated Feature
In a category dominated by major studios, Latvia's "Flow" emerged victorious in the Best Animated Feature category.This win was unexpected, especially against contenders like "The Wild Robot" and "Inside Out 2," showcasing the Academy's recognition of diverse storytelling.
Conclusion
The 2025 Oscars highlighted the Academy's unpredictable nature, with several anticipated wins not materializing. These snubs serve as a reminder of the subjective nature of awards and the ever-evolving landscape of cinema.
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