The 2025 Academy Awards are shaping up to be a historic night as the spotlight shines brightly on the incredible contributions of Black artists and creatives. The 97th Oscars, set to air live from the Dolby Theatre on March 2 at 7 p.m. ET, will celebrate the year’s best in cinema. With Conan O’Brien hosting the ceremony, audiences are anticipating an evening that blends entertainment with a showcase of extraordinary talent. This year’s nominations highlight the profound impact of Black voices across various categories, underscoring the range and depth of storytelling brought to the big screen in 2024. Films like Nickel Boys and Wicked stand out, leading multiple categories with their compelling narratives and artistic achievements. Notable Nominations in Acting In the acting categories, Cynthia Erivo earned a nomination for Best Actress for her powerful portrayal in Wicked, the much-anticipated adaptation of the beloved musical. Her performance is celebrated for its emotional depth and complexity, breathing new life into a well-known character. Colman Domingo, known for his transformative roles, received a Best Actor nomination for his performance in Sing Sing. His role in this prison drama is lauded for its authenticity and ability to connect audiences with deeply human stories of redemption and resilience. Zoe Saldaña also garnered attention with a Best Supporting Actress nomination for her role in Emilia Pérez. Her work has been praised for its nuance and ability to bring dimension to a character navigating personal and cultural intersections. Recognitions in Screenwriting and Music The category for Adapted Screenplay features two standout nominations with strong ties to Black creatives: Nickel Boys, penned by RaMell Ross and Joslyn Barnes, and Sing Sing, written by Clint Bentley and Greg Kwedar with contributions from Clarence Maclin and John 'Divine G' Whitfield. Both scripts reflect thought-provoking themes that resonate with modern audiences, from systemic injustice to personal transformation. In music, Wicked dominates with a nomination for Best Original Score, adding another feather to its cap. Additionally, “The Journey” from The Six Triple Eight has been recognized in the Best Original Song category, celebrating its inspirational message tied to the story of […]
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