The 97th Academy Awards commenced on a Sunday afternoon in Hollywood amidst a challenging year for the film industry. Following a 3% decline in ticket sales compared to the previous year and disruptions due to strikes, the event was a pivotal moment for the industry, which has seen its share of troubles, including the impact of California wildfires.

Major Winners of the Evening

Best Picture: “Anora”

The coveted Best Picture award went to “Anora,” a gritty narrative set in Brooklyn that tells the story of an erotic dancer and her unexpected marriage to the son of a Russian oligarch. Directed by Sean Baker, this film has gained recognition as a favorite after winning the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.

Best Actress: Mikey Madison

Mikey Madison received the Best Actress award for her portrayal in “Anora,” surpassing strong contenders including Demi Moore, who starred in “The Substance.”

Best Director: Sean Baker

Sean Baker also took home the award for Best Director, celebrating his comprehensive work on “Anora,” which he wrote, produced, directed, and edited. The film’s unique perspective on its subject matter continues to resonate with audiences.

Best Actor: Adrien Brody

Adrien Brody won Best Actor for his compelling performance as Lázló Tóth in “The Brutalist.” This role marked Brody’s second Oscar win as he depicted the life of a Holocaust survivor whose creative journey in architecture significantly altered societal expectations.

Best Supporting Actress: Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldaña achieved her first Oscar win for Best Supporting Actress in “Emilia Pérez.” Her performance was part of a remarkable awards season that included wins across several major ceremonies.

Best Supporting Actor: Kieran Culkin

Kieran Culkin completed his award season dominance by winning the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his role in “A Real Pain.” This victory capped a strong performance in multiple television awards leading up to the Oscars.

Opening Highlights

The ceremony’s host, Conan O’Brien, kicked off the program with his signature humor, delivering light-hearted jabs at the industry. Among his remarks, he humorously noted, “Did Conan not have work done? Seriously. He looks his age.”

The event commenced with a dazzling musical performance, featuring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. Grande opened with a rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” while Erivo followed up with “Home” from “The Wiz.” Their duet of “Defying Gravity” received resounding applause.

Impact of the Nominees and Ceremony

This year’s awards reflected a shifting landscape in cinema, with “Anora” becoming an unexpected frontrunner and revealing audiences’ growing appetite for diverse narratives in film. The ceremony also emphasized Hollywood’s resilience and commitment to storytelling during tough times.