Top Oscar Winners of 2025: Anora Dominates with Five Wins

The 97th Academy Awards of 2025 saw a thrilling night of celebration, with Anora emerging as the biggest winner of the evening. The film, a gripping drama that tells the story of a New York sex worker who marries a wealthy Russian client, dominated the Oscars by sweeping up five prestigious awards. From Best Picture to Best Director, the night belonged to Anora, with several standout performances that stole the show. Here’s a closer look at the top Oscar winners and the night’s unforgettable moments.

Anora: A Film That Captured Hearts

Directed by Sean Baker, Anora made history by taking home the night’s most coveted award: Best Picture. The film’s raw emotional depth and powerful storytelling resonated deeply with both critics and audiences alike. It’s not just the plot, but the performances and direction that made Anora a triumph.

Set against the backdrop of the complex world of sex work, Anora challenges societal norms, delving into themes of survival, vulnerability, and love. The film’s powerful portrayal of its lead character struck a chord with viewers, making it one of the most talked-about films of the year.

Best Director: Sean Baker’s Visionary Direction

Sean Baker’s visionary direction in Anora earned him the Best Director Oscar. This marks a significant milestone in Baker’s career, as he becomes the third director in history to win multiple Oscars in the same ceremony. Known for his ability to portray underrepresented characters and communities with authenticity and care, Baker’s talent shone brightly in Anora.

Baker’s meticulous attention to detail, combined with his ability to evoke powerful performances from his cast, was a critical factor in the film’s success. His win further solidifies his reputation as one of Hollywood’s most distinctive voices, known for challenging norms and delivering stories that provoke thought and inspire change.

Best Actor: Adrien Brody Shines in The Brutalist

While Anora dominated the night, Adrien Brody’s exceptional performance in The Brutalist earned him the Best Actor Oscar. Brody, who won his first Oscar for The Pianist back in 2003, delivered a haunting and intense portrayal of a man battling inner demons. His performance was lauded for its emotional depth, range, and vulnerability, earning him a standing ovation from the audience.

Brody’s win is a testament to his continued brilliance as an actor, proving that he is as capable as ever of delivering standout performances that captivate audiences.

Best Actress: Mikey Madison’s Breakout Performance in Anora

Mikey Madison made a name for herself in Anora, and her performance as the titular character earned her the Best Actress Oscar. This role marks a major milestone in Madison’s career, catapulting her to international stardom. Her portrayal of Anora, a sex worker navigating a complicated relationship with her wealthy client, is both heart-wrenching and empowering.

Madison’s ability to convey the character’s vulnerability, strength, and emotional turmoil won over audiences and critics alike. Her win is proof that fresh talent and compelling performances are at the heart of great filmmaking.

Best Supporting Actor and Actress: Culkin and Saldaña Shine

The Best Supporting Actor and Best Supporting Actress categories were filled with notable performances, but it was Kieran Culkin and Zoe Saldaña who took home the coveted awards. Culkin, known for his roles in Succession and Igby Goes Down, won Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of a complex character in A Real Pain. His nuanced and emotionally charged performance captured the essence of his character, earning him recognition as one of Hollywood’s finest actors.

Zoe Saldaña made history with her win for Best Supporting Actress, taking home the award for her performance in Emilia Pérez. Saldaña’s portrayal of a determined, multi-layered character resonated deeply with audiences. Her win also marked a historic moment, as she became the first American of Dominican origin to ever win an Oscar.

A Night of Diversity and Breakthrough Performances

The 2025 Oscars were not just a celebration of individual talent but also a testament to the increasing diversity and inclusivity in Hollywood. Anora was a groundbreaking film in many ways, with its raw portrayal of life’s darker complexities, while performances like Madison’s and Saldaña’s highlighted the growing recognition of diverse talent in the industry.

From newcomer Mikey Madison’s Best Actress win to Zoe Saldaña’s historical Best Supporting Actress victory, the night showcased the evolving landscape of cinema. This year’s Oscars were a celebration of breakthrough performances and the stories that need to be told. It’s a step forward for representation and storytelling in Hollywood, and it shows that diverse narratives are being recognized and celebrated at the highest levels.

Conclusion: A Memorable Year for the Oscars

The 2025 Academy Awards were an unforgettable night, with Anora leading the charge and receiving five major awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. The night also showcased powerful performances from Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Kieran Culkin, and Zoe Saldaña, each of whom earned their spot in Oscar history.

The Oscars of 2025 will undoubtedly be remembered as a celebration of diverse voices, powerful storytelling, and exceptional talent. With films like Anora making waves on the global stage, the future of cinema looks brighter than ever, and the Academy Awards continue to be a reflection of the ever-changing world of film.