Who's in the Run for Best Picture at the 2025 Oscars?

Read about this year's nominees for the most coveted award of the season.

Photo: IndieWire

The Academy Awards are shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory—but much of the buzz seems to be about their cultural impact rather than the films themselves. The night's most coveted prize, Best Picture, is packed with strong contenders that deliver outstanding storytelling and exceptional performances.

Big-budget spectacles like Dune: Part Two bring stunning visuals and world-building, while smaller, more personal stories like Anora and Nickel Boys deliver raw emotional depth. We also have a few surprises, like the musical thriller Emilia Pérez, leading the pack with 13 nominations, and The Brutalist, an artistic drama that has quietly built strong awards momentum. And let’s not forget Wicked, which brings Broadway magic to the big screen with a fresh adaptation of the beloved musical.

Anora

Sean Baker's Anora offers a raw and intimate portrayal of life in Brooklyn, following the journey of a young woman navigating personal and societal challenges. The film has been lauded for its authentic storytelling and compelling performances, capturing the essence of urban struggles.

The Brutalist

Directed by Brady Corbet, The Brutalist is a historical epic that delves into mid-20th-century conflicts, exploring themes of ambition and architectural innovation. The film's intricate narrative and stunning cinematography have earned it ten Oscar nominations, making it a formidable contender this year.

A Complete Unknown

James Mangold's A Complete Unknown chronicles Bob Dylan's pivotal transition to rock and roll, with Timothée Chalamet delivering a standout performance as the iconic musician. The film has garnered attention for its insightful portrayal of a cultural icon and is available in theaters.

Conclave

Conclave offers a thrilling glimpse into the secretive world of papal elections, weaving a narrative filled with intrigue and political maneuvering. The film's compelling storytelling and strong ensemble cast have made it a standout in this year's nominations.

Dune: Part Two

Denis Villeneuve's Dune: Part Two continues the epic saga with breathtaking visuals and a gripping storyline. The film has been praised for its technical achievements and is a strong contender in multiple categories.

Emilia Pérez

Jacques Audiard's Emilia Pérez leads this year's nominations with 13 nods. The Netflix musical thriller tells the story of a Mexican cartel leader undergoing a gender transition. While the film has been celebrated for its storytelling and performances, it has also sparked controversy due to past social media comments by lead actress Karla Sofía Gascón.

I'm Still Here

Representing Brazil, I'm Still Here has been nominated for Best International Feature Film. The film has been recognized for its compelling narrative and strong performances, making it a notable entry in this year's awards.

Nickel Boys

Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, Nickel Boys brings to light the harrowing experiences of boys at a reform school in the Jim Crow South. The film's powerful storytelling and poignant performances have resonated with audiences and critics alike.

The Substance

Coralie Fargeat's The Substance is a thought-provoking film that has garnered attention for its unique narrative and direction. The film has been recognized in multiple categories, highlighting its impact in this year's awards.

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Wicked

The beloved Broadway musical Wicked makes its way to the big screen, featuring standout performances by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. The film has been praised for its adaptation and musical numbers, securing its place among this year's top contenders.