2025 Oscars Predictions: Who Will Take Home the Gold and Who Deserves It Most?

Academy Awards Predictions: Exciting Options for 2023

This year’s Academy Awards are shaping up to be thrilling. Film critics speculate on key categories, highlighting remarkable films and performances. Let’s dive into the top predictions for the Oscars.

1. Best Picture

Caryn James notes the wild race among nominees, with “Anora” initially leading the pack. This film is colorful and heartfelt, making it a favorite. However, “Conclave,” a political thriller set in the Vatican, has strong support due to its compelling story and awards buzz. Its potential as a second-choice pick could result in a surprise win.

Nicholas Barber echoes her sentiments, stating “Anora” might take the award, appealing to both critics and audiences. Its gritty authenticity and vibrant storytelling set it apart in a competitive field.

2. Best Director

Barber believes Sean Baker, who helms “Anora,” and Brady Corbet of “The Brutalist” are in tight competition. Baker’s knack for blending different tones gives him an edge. Caryn James agrees, praising Baker’s dynamic direction, making this a thrilling contest.

3. Best Actor

Adrian Brody appears to have the advantage for his role in “The Brutalist,” having won major awards leading to the Oscars. Yet, Timothée Chalamet’s performance in “A Complete Unknown” could sway voters, especially as he won the SAG Award. Barber predicts this battle will be tight, but Brody’s portrayal is likely to resonate deeply with voters.

4. Best Actress

Demi Moore is a strong contender for her role in “The Substance,” where she navigates Hollywood’s harsh realities. After winning the Golden Globe, her powerful performance, along with a compelling comeback narrative, puts her in prime position to win. As James points out, other actresses like Mikey Madison and Fernanda Torres could also shake things up, but Moore seems to have the edge.

5. Best Supporting Actor

Kieran Culkin is the clear frontrunner thanks to his multifaceted role in “A Real Pain.” His ability to blend humor with depth has won accolades, making his victory anticipated. Barber believes Culkin’s momentum in previous awards signals this win is almost guaranteed, despite strong performances from others in the category.

6. Best Supporting Actress

Zoe Saldaña’s starring role in “Emilia Pérez” has been overshadowed by her co-star’s controversy. However, her stellar performance as Rita gives her optimism for a win. James emphasizes Saldaña’s transformation during the film and her emotional responses during award ceremonies, depicting her growth as an actress.

7. Best Adapted Screenplay

Peter Straughan’s screenplay for “Conclave” seems destined for recognition. Critics acclaim the adaptation’s depth, turning a novel into a captivating script. Barber notes that the other nominees struggle to match this level of excitement.

8. Best Original Screenplay

This is a competitive category, with “Anora,” “The Brutalist,” and “A Real Pain” all showcasing unique storytelling. Barber thinks the edge may go to “Anora” for its innovative script, while James favors the precision of Eisenberg’s “A Real Pain.”

9. Best International Film

Following a controversial start for “Emilia Pérez,” “I’m Still Here” stands tall as the standout contender. The film’s exploration of personal struggles amid political upheaval gives it a poignant edge. Critics argue that its emotional depth and message resonate, making it a deserving nominee.

10. Best Animated Feature

Nicholas Barber highlights “The Wild Robot” as a frontrunner, citing its charm and strong voice cast, while “Flow” presents an innovative, dialogue-free experience. James believes the box office success of “The Wild Robot” could play a crucial role in sealing its win.

11. Best Documentary Feature

Documentaries with political urgency often capture the Academy’s attention. “No Other Land” stands out for its heartrending portrayal of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Barber believes that stories like these align closely with current global issues, making it a potential winner this year.

12. Best Original Score

Daniel Blumberg’s score for “The Brutalist” is creating buzz due to its emotional depth. Critics believe it could overshadow the competition, including scores from “Emilia Pérez” and “Wicked,” both of which might split voter attention.

13. Best Cinematography

While “Nickel Boys” misses out on recognition, contenders like “The Brutalist” and “Nosferatu” capture the Academy’s eye with stunning visuals. Barber suspects that the grandeur in “Dune: Part Two” may clinch the win, appealing to the Academy’s tendency to reward blockbuster films.