Oscars 2025: The Night of Surprises and Predictions

The 2025 Oscars ceremony was a whirlwind of excitement and unpredictability. The show kicked off with a stunning performance by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, setting the tone for a night filled with surprises. The opening number was a cinematic tribute to Los Angeles, followed by Grande's powerful rendition of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow. " The energy was electric, and the audience was on the edge of their seats. One of the biggest talking points of the night was the absence of a distributor for the documentary feature winner, "No Other Land. " The film's political content made it a tough sell, leaving many wondering if it would ever see the light of day. Despite this, the documentary's win was a testament to its impactful storytelling. The ceremony was hosted by Conan O'Brien, who brought his signature humor and charm to the stage. His opening monologue set the tone for a night of laughter and entertainment. O'Brien's energy was infectious, and he kept the audience engaged with his witty remarks and unexpected jokes. The night was filled with memorable moments, including a surprise appearance by Mick Jagger. Jagger presented the original song Oscar, revealing that Bob Dylan had initially been considered for the role. Dylan's past relationship with the Oscars was also a topic of discussion, with fans recalling his pride in his previous win for "Things Have Changed. "The ceremony also featured a tribute to the James Bond franchise, which was met with mixed reactions. Some viewers appreciated the nod to the iconic series, while others felt it was an unnecessary distraction. The tribute included a medley of Bond themes, performed by various artists. The night was also marked by several emotional acceptance speeches. Zoe Saldaña, who won the supporting actress Oscar for "Emilia Pérez, " began her speech by shouting out her mom and her immigrant parents. Her words resonated with many in the audience, highlighting the importance of family and heritage. The film editing category saw a significant win for "Anora, " directed by Sean Baker. Baker's win was a major milestone, as it brought him one step closer to tying Walt Disney's record for winning four Oscars in a single year. Baker's acceptance speech was filled with humor and gratitude, as he joked about saving the film in the editing process. The ceremony also featured a heartwarming moment when Paul Tazewell won the costume design Oscar for "Wicked. " Tazewell's win was a historic one, as he became the first Black man to win in this category. His acceptance speech was filled with emotion and gratitude, as he thanked his team and the Academy for recognizing his work. The night was filled with unexpected wins and surprises, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The ceremony was a celebration of filmmaking and the art of storytelling, showcasing the best of what Hollywood has to offer. The Oscars 2025 was a night to remember, filled with laughter, tears, and unforgettable moments.