AS the 97th Academy Awards approach, the film industry worldwide eagerly awaits the ceremony at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.
This year’s Oscars on March 2 promise a blend of tradition and modernity, with Conan O’Brien making his debut as host.
A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE OSCARS
Established in 1929, the Academy Awards have long been the pinnacle of cinematic achievement, honouring outstanding contributions to the art of filmmaking.
Over the decades, the Oscars have evolved, reflecting changes in the industry and society, while remaining a prestigious accolade for filmmakers and actors alike.
LEADING FILMS AND PERFORMANCES
This year’s nominations are led by Emilia Pérez, a French-produced, Mexican-set musical that has garnered 13 nods, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Karla Sofía Gascón.
The film tells the story of a drug lord who transitions into a philanthropist, marking a significant moment as Gascón becomes the first transgender actress nominated for an Oscar.
Close on its heels is The Brutalist, with 10 nominations. Directed by Brady Corbet, the film explores the life of a Jewish architect in post-World War II America, delving into themes of faith and trauma.
In the acting categories, Demi Moore’s performance in The Substance positions her as a frontrunner for Best Actress, while Timothée Chalamet’s portrayal of Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown has earned him a Best Actor nomination.
Kieran Culkin is favoured for Best Supporting Actor for his role in A Real Pain, and Zoe Saldana is a strong contender for Best Supporting Actress.
CONAN O’BRIEN TAKES THE HELM
In his Oscars debut, Conan O’Brien brings his unique brand of humour and extensive experience in television to the ceremony. Known for his quick wit and engaging style, O’Brien has expressed excitement about the opportunity, noting that he has sought advice from previous hosts, including Billy Crystal and Jimmy Kimmel, to prepare for the event.
The 2025 Oscars will be broadcast live on ABC and, for the first time, streamed on Hulu, making the event more accessible to audiences worldwide.
With a diverse lineup of presenters, including Oprah Winfrey, Selena Gomez and Robert Downey Jr., the ceremony promises to be a memorable celebration of cinematic excellence.
You can watch the 97th Academy Awards live on the Seven Network (Channel 7) and stream it online via 7plus.
The main event starts at 10am, and pre-ceremony coverage, including The Oscars Red Carpet Show, begins at 9.30am.
