Oscars 2025: Highlights from a Night of Triumph and Heart

LOS ANGELES — On March 2, 2025, the 97th Academy Awards showcased powerful performances and stirring acceptance speeches, highlighting both triumph and social issues.

Palestinian director Basel Adra and Israeli co-director Yuval Abraham received the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature for their film “No Other Land,” shining a spotlight on the ongoing struggles faced by Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. Upon receiving the award, Adra said, “About two months ago, I became a father, and my hope to my daughter is that she will not have to live the same life I am living now.” His co-director echoed this sentiment, noting the inequality in their respective lives under differing legal systems.

The Oscars were graced by standout performances from A-list celebrities, including Zoe Saldaña, who won Best Supporting Actress for her role in “Emilia Pérez.” An emotional Saldaña opened her speech thanking her family, stating, “Everything brave, outrageous and good that I’ve ever done throughout my life is because of you.”

Musical tributes were a highlight of the night, with songs associated with the James Bond franchise featuring performances by Doja Cat, Raye, and LISA from Blackpink. The tribute began with Margaret Qualley performing, followed by the other stars contributing to a rousing celebration of the iconic film series.

During a notable comedic moment, host Conan O’Brien led a dance break while toasting to Southern California’s firefighters who had recently battled local wildfires, receiving a standing ovation. He quipped, “I don’t know why I did this — I just a second ago nodded and said ‘thank you.’”

The ceremony has shifted focus on the growing popularity of musicals, evident with both “Wicked” and “Emilia Pérez” nominated for Best Picture, a rarity since 1968. The films combined for a total of 23 nominations this year.

In a world where the film industry is entrenched in major social issues, director Sean Baker won Best Original Screenplay for “Anora,” and expressed gratitude towards the sex worker community. He stated, “They have shared their stories. They have shared their life experience with me over the years. My deepest respect. I share this with you.”

Amidst the glitz and glamour, the evening also faced reflections on serious global issues, including the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza amidst the applause for achievements in the film community. The award for Best Original Song went to “El Mal” from “Emilia Pérez,” with songwriter Camille stating that music and art could be a force of progress.

This Oscars served not only to celebrate the art of filmmaking but also to remind viewers of the stories and struggles that motivate and inspire those behind the scenes.