At the 2025 Academy Awards, the independent film Anora stole the spotlight, winning five major awards, including the coveted Best Picture.
Directed by Sean Baker, Anora tells the compelling story of a sex worker whose marriage to the son of a Russian oligarch quickly falls apart.
The film’s success came as a surprise, especially considering its modest $6 million budget, a fraction of what most Hollywood blockbusters typically cost.
A Surprising Win for Mikey Madison
One of the most exciting moments of the night came when 25-year-old Mikey Madison won the Best Actress award for her role in Anora.
In a gracious acceptance speech, Madison expressed her disbelief and joy, saying, “This is a dream come true.
I grew up in Los Angeles, but Hollywood always felt so far away from me.
So to be here standing in this room today is really incredible.”
Madison’s win was considered an upset, as she bested 1990s megastar Demi Moore, who had long been a favorite to take home the award for her role in The Substance.
Backstage, Madison revealed that she was still processing the win, joking about heading home to clean up after her puppies.
“I just know that tonight I’m going to go home to my new puppies and probably clean up their mess,” she laughed.
Sean Baker’s Big Night
Director Sean Baker also had a night to remember, winning Best Director, Best Editing, and Best Original Screenplay for Anora.
In his acceptance speech, Baker took the opportunity to champion independent filmmaking.
“I want to thank the Academy for recognizing a truly independent film.
This film was made on the blood, sweat, and tears of incredible indie artists,” he said, adding to the excitement of an already unforgettable night.
Anora’s Strong Showing and the Battle with Conclave
Anora was not only the big winner of the night but also demonstrated the power of indie films in a competitive field.
The film received six nominations and won five of them, an impressive feat for a production made on such a small budget.
In contrast, Conclave, a film about the secretive election of a new Catholic leader, was expected to be a major contender but ultimately only took home the Best Adapted Screenplay award.
A Classic Oscars with Some Political Undercurrents
The Oscars broadcast itself was a classic one, free of the intense political commentary that had marked previous years.
Host Conan O’Brien kept the atmosphere light, steering clear of controversial topics like Donald Trump or the war in Ukraine.
However, there was a subtle nod to the conflict, with a brief mention of the situation in Gaza during one of the speeches.
The ceremony opened with a stunning medley of songs from Wicked, performed by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, which included the rousing number “Defying Gravity.”
The performance was one of the standout moments of the night, earning rave reviews from both the audience and critics.
Kieran Culkin and Adrien Brody Claim Acting Awards
The acting categories mostly went as expected, with Kieran Culkin taking home Best Supporting Actor for his role in A Real Pain.
Culkin, ever the humble actor, quipped, “I’ve already lost whatever speech I prepared.”
Meanwhile, Adrien Brody won his second career Oscar for his role in The Brutalist.
Brody, whose first win came for The Pianist in 2002, became part of an exclusive group of actors who have won multiple Academy Awards, including Marlon Brando and Jack Nicholson.
Zoe Saldaña’s Emotional Win
In one of the most emotional moments of the night, Zoe Saldaña won the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in Emilia Perez.
Saldaña, who is of Dominican descent, dedicated her win to her family and her heritage, saying, “I am the first American of Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award. I know I will not be the last.”
Her words struck a chord with audiences and highlighted the ongoing importance of diversity in Hollywood.
Looking Ahead to More Exciting Wins
With Anora taking center stage at the Oscars, the night ended with a sense of excitement and promise for the future of independent filmmaking.
As the credits rolled, it was clear that the 2025 Academy Awards had been a night to remember, not just for the big winners, but for all those who made their mark on the industry.
The journey for Anora and its talented cast and crew has just begun, and many are eager to see where their success will take them next.