2025 Oscars Predictions: “Anora” and “Conclave” Lead Best Picture Race After SAG Awards
Anne Thompson’s final 2025 Oscars predictions spotlight “Anora” and “Conclave” for Best Picture, while Mikey Madison and Timothée Chalamet are favored for acting accolades after surprising SAG Awards wins. The Screen Actors Guild Awards, streamed on Netflix, offered hints at potential upsets, with Jessica Gunning and “Only Murders in the Building” also taking home honors. Political statements and ensemble performances are expected to play a significant role at the Academy Awards, reflecting the evolving film industry.
The 2025 Oscars are shaping up to be a highly anticipated event, with a diverse array of films and performances vying for the coveted awards. As the film industry continues to evolve, the Oscars serve as a barometer for the trends and tastes that define contemporary cinema. From groundbreaking performances to unexpected upsets, the 2025 Academy Awards promise to be a celebration of cinematic excellence.
The Frontrunners: Predicting the 2025 Oscar Winners ###
Anne Thompson’s final predictions for the 2025 Oscars highlight several standout films and performances across 23 categories. In the Best Picture category, “Anora” and “Conclave” are among the top contenders, each bringing a unique narrative and cinematic style to the forefront. “Anora” is praised for its compelling storytelling and strong performances, while “Conclave” captivates audiences with its intricate plot and ensemble cast. In the acting categories, Mikey Madison and Adrien Brody are predicted to take home the awards for Best Actress and Best Actor, respectively, for their powerful performances in “Anora” and “The Brutalist.”
The race for Best Supporting Actor is expected to be tight, with Kieran Culkin’s role in “A Real Pain” garnering significant attention. Culkin’s performance is lauded for its depth and emotional resonance, making him a strong contender in this category. Similarly, the Best Supporting Actress category sees Zoe Saldaña as a frontrunner for her role in “Emilia Pérez,” a film that has stirred controversy and discussion throughout the awards season.
Memorable Moments from the 2025 SAG Awards ###
The 2025 Screen Actors Guild Awards, streamed live on Netflix, provided a glimpse into the performances and films likely to make waves at the Oscars. Hosted by Kristen Bell, who was also nominated for her work in the comedy series “Nobody Wants This,” the SAG Awards showcased a mix of humor, heartfelt moments, and standout performances. One of the most memorable moments was the unexpected opening by Jean Smart, who was initially set to host but was replaced due to unpaid SAG dues. Smart’s comedic timing and self-deprecating humor set a light-hearted tone for the evening.
Another highlight was the emotional acceptance speech by Shōgun star Anna Sawai, who won for Female Actor in a Drama Series. Sawai’s tears were a testament to the genuine connection she felt with her cast and the significance of the award in the context of their journey. The SAG Awards also featured a touching tribute to Hollywood’s Scream Queens, with Jamie Lee Curtis leading the homage and reflecting on her long career in the genre.
Surprising Upsets and Notable Wins ###
The SAG Awards saw several surprising upsets that could foreshadow similar outcomes at the Oscars. Jessica Gunning’s win for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series for her role in “Baby Reindeer” was a significant upset, given the competition from established stars like Kathy Bates and Cate Blanchett. Gunning’s victory highlights the industry’s growing appreciation for new talent and fresh performances.
Timothée Chalamet’s win for Best Actor in a Motion Picture for his portrayal of Bob Dylan in “A Complete Unknown” was another unexpected outcome. Chalamet’s candid acceptance speech, in which he acknowledged the challenges of the role and his pursuit of greatness, resonated with audiences and underscored his rising status in Hollywood. Similarly, Demi Moore’s win for her role in “The Substance” was a poignant moment, as she reflected on her journey from a young actress to a seasoned performer.
The Impact of Ensemble Performances ###
Ensemble performances were a significant focus at the SAG Awards, with “Only Murders in the Building” and “Conclave” taking home top honors in their respective categories. The win for “Only Murders in the Building” was met with surprise and humor by Selena Gomez, who accepted the award on behalf of the cast and playfully noted the absence of her co-stars Martin Short and Steve Martin. The ensemble cast’s chemistry and collaborative spirit were evident, making their win a testament to the power of teamwork in storytelling.
“Conclave” also made a strong impression, winning the award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture. The film’s ensemble, including John Lithgow and Ralph Fiennes, took a moment to pray for the health of Pope Francis, adding a poignant note to their victory. The success of “Conclave” at the SAG Awards could signal a potential upset at the Oscars, given the film’s strong ensemble and compelling narrative.
Political Statements and Union Advocacy ###
The SAG Awards also served as a platform for actors to voice their political and social concerns. Zoe Saldaña, in accepting her award for Best Supporting Actress for “Emilia Pérez,” used her speech to advocate for union rights and artistic freedom. She emphasized the importance of being true to oneself and the role of actors in telling stories that provoke thought and inspire change. Saldaña’s message resonated with the audience, highlighting the ongoing relevance of union advocacy in the entertainment industry.
Jane Fonda’s acceptance of the SAG Life Achievement Award was another highlight, as she used the opportunity to reflect on her six decades in Hollywood and her activism. Introduced by Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Fonda’s speech was a blend of humor and earnestness, as she recounted her journey and urged her fellow actors to use their platform to foster empathy and fight for social justice. Her words underscored the enduring impact of actors as agents of change.
The Role of Nostalgia and Humor ###
Nostalgia and humor played significant roles in the SAG Awards, with Kristen Bell’s opening monologue setting a playful tone. Bell’s parody of the “Frozen” song “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” showcased the early careers of many nominees, adding a light-hearted touch to the evening. The segment highlighted the journey of actors from their first roles to their current successes, reminding the audience of the industry’s rich history and the personal stories behind each performance.
Humor was also evident in the interactions between presenters and winners. Kieran Culkin’s acceptance speech for Male Actor in a Supporting Role was filled with wit and self-deprecation, as he humorously acknowledged the weight of the award and playfully called out Adrien Brody. The evening’s humor was a reminder of the joy and camaraderie that underpin the entertainment industry, even amidst the seriousness of the awards.
Implications for the 2025 Oscars ###
The 2025 SAG Awards provided valuable insights into the potential outcomes of the upcoming Oscars. The success of films like “Conclave” and “Only Murders in the Building” at the SAG Awards suggests that ensemble performances and strong narratives will be key factors in the Academy’s decisions. The surprising wins by Jessica Gunning and Timothée Chalamet indicate a shift towards recognizing fresh talent and innovative performances, which could influence the Oscars’ voting.
Political and social advocacy, as seen in the speeches by Zoe Saldaña and Jane Fonda, will likely continue to play a role at the Oscars. The industry’s ongoing commitment to union rights and artistic freedom reflects broader societal trends and the responsibility of artists to engage with the world around them. As the Oscars approach, these themes will undoubtedly shape the conversations and celebrations of cinematic achievement.
In conclusion, the 2025 Oscars are poised to be a reflection of the dynamic and evolving landscape of the film industry. From the predicted frontrunners to the surprising upsets at the SAG Awards, the upcoming Academy Awards promise to honor the diversity, talent, and impact of contemporary cinema. As audiences and industry insiders alike look forward to the event, the Oscars will continue to serve as a celebration of the art and craft of filmmaking.
Leave a Reply