Mikey Madison, Adrien Brody, and Zoë Saldana: announced as 2025 Oscar winners

Full list of winners

On the night of March 2–3, 2025, the 97th Academy Awards ceremony took place in Los Angeles.

This year, there was much debate over who would take home the statuettes, as almost all the nominated films made a huge impact in the film world. The intrigue lasted until the highly anticipated night.

Best Picture — «Anora»

The controversial film Anora, directed by Sean Baker, won one of the top awards — Best Picture. It also triumphed in four other categories. The film took home awards for Best Original Screenplay, Best Editing, Best Director, and Best Actress, with Mikey Madison receiving the honor.

The film tells the story of a young sex worker from Brooklyn named Anora, who falls in love with the son of a Russian oligarch and marries him. The film features several Russian actors, including Mark Eidelstein and Yuri Borisov, both of whom previously appeared in projects filmed in occupied Crimea.

Best Actor — Adrien Brody

Adrien Brody won Best Actor for his portrayal of László Tóth in The Brutalist, a Hungarian architect and Holocaust survivor. The character emigrates to the U.S. in 1947, facing poverty and antisemitism, but ultimately gets an opportunity to prove himself through a millionaire’s ambitious project.

Brody masterfully conveys László’s character development, depicting his evolution throughout the film. Critics have praised Brody’s performance, comparing it to The Pianist and highlighting his deep immersion into the role.

Best Supporting Actor — Kieran Culkin

Kieran Culkin won Best Supporting Actor for his role as Benji in A Real Pain, directed by Jesse Eisenberg. Benji is the eccentric cousin of the main character, David. He is a charming and emotionally open character, with Culkin adding a mix of sarcasm and vulnerability that brings depth to the role. Critics have praised his performance, and this Oscar win is not the first award he has received for the role.

Best Supporting Actress — Zoë Saldana

Zoë Saldana won Best Supporting Actress for her role as lawyer Rita Moro Castro in Emilia Pérez, directed by Jacques Audiard. Rita is an emotional character whose personality unfolds through dramatic scenes and musical numbers. Saldana skillfully balances strength and fragility, while her dancing and singing abilities enhance the role.