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Ranking the 2025 Best Picture Oscar Nominees

Published January 24, 2025

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced the nominees for the 2025 Oscars, continuing the tradition of revealing the contenders one year after the previous ceremony. This year’s Best Picture category features ten films, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Unlike last year's predictable nominations, this year presents a more challenging landscape where picking a frontrunner has proven difficult.

The competition this year covers a wide spectrum of quality, with some films rising to remarkable heights while others struggle to leave a lasting impression. The nominees include everything from major blockbusters to more intimate stories, and while some may feel deserving of top honor, others might seem out of place in the running for Best Picture.

10. Emilia Pérez (2024)

Directed by Jacques Audiard, Emilia Pérez tells the story of a conflicted lawyer aiding a transgender cartel boss in navigating her new identity. While the film attempts to tackle significant themes, it ultimately falls short due to its inconsiderate portrayal of serious subjects such as the drug war and the character’s transition. Critics have heavily criticized its tone and approach, making it a contentious nominee.

9. Wicked (2024)

Based on the beloved Broadway musical, Wicked offers the first act of a story rooted in the lore of the Wizard of Oz. Although it features impressive performances from stars like Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, the film struggles with its uneven song selection and the challenge of splitting a single narrative into parts. Fans of the musical may appreciate it, but its incomplete feel may not resonate with all viewers.

8. Conclave (2024)

Conclave, a drama centered around the election of a new pope, is presented in a melodramatic style that appeals to mainstream audiences. The film might attract viewers looking for a mix of intrigue and lively performances from actors like Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci, but its focus on spectacle over substance leaves some wanting more depth. The film's flashy presentation could endear it to Academy voters looking for crowd-pleasers.

7. Dune: Part Two (2024)

Director Denis Villeneuve returns with Dune: Part Two, a sequel that dives back into the rich universe created by Frank Herbert. While it delivers stunning visuals and expands on the story's mythology, many viewers might find it lacks emotional connection to its characters. It is an impressive achievement in world-building and cinematic spectacle but may leave some spectators feeling detached.

6. A Complete Unknown (2024)

In A Complete Unknown, Timothée Chalamet takes on the role of Bob Dylan, charting the early phase of his career. While it offers an engaging look at a legendary figure, the film opts for a simple narrative style that sometimes sacrifices deeper exploration. It succeeds as an entertaining look at Dylan's world, though it may feel superficial to those seeking an in-depth analysis of his life.

5. I’m Still Here (2024)

Walter Salles directs I’m Still Here, a poignant drama about the disappearance of a Brazilian politician during a military coup. The film's gripping first half sets a strong tone, capturing the tension and fear of an impending crisis. However, it struggles to maintain that intensity as it shifts into themes of grief and uncertainty, often leaving the audience longing for resolution alongside the characters.

4. Nickel Boys (2024)

Nickel Boys draws upon Colson Whitehead's novel to examine the harrowing experiences of young boys in a reform school. The film's innovative use of perspective and visual storytelling creates a bridge to the emotional core of its narrative. While some viewers may find its technique limiting, the movie’s powerful themes of trauma and resilience shine through.

3. The Brutalist (2024)

Brady Corbet's ambitious film The Brutalist weaves a tale about artistic integrity set against a backdrop of historical events. Featuring strong performances by Adrien Brody and Guy Pearce, it struggles with pacing issues, especially during a lengthy intermission. Despite its flaws, the film's attempts to tackle complex themes and moral ambiguity leave a lasting impact.

2. The Substance (2024)

The Substance makes a shocking entry into the Best Picture race with its provocative storytelling, blending horror and satire. Director Coralie Fargeat presents a film that defies conventional norms, offering both grotesque visuals and compelling performances, particularly from Demi Moore. While its audacious approach may not sit well with all viewers, it has certainly sparked discussion.

1. Anora (2024)

Sean Baker’s Anora emerges as a standout film, blending humor and tragedy into a captivating narrative. The film’s exploration of dreams, socio-economic challenges, and personal connections resonates deeply with audiences. Baker's unique storytelling approach showcases a raw and authentic view of life that has positioned it as a serious contender for the Academy's top honor.

The 97th Academy Awards will take place on March 2, airing live on ABC and streaming on Hulu.

Oscar, Nominees, Movies