This year’s 98th Academy Awards brought a mix of history-making nominations and exciting wins, as the film industry appreciated the best movies of 2025. The Oscars hosted by Conan O’Brien recognized outstanding achievement in filmmaking, acting, and directing, ranging from wins in record-setting nominations and new, surprising victories.
One of the biggest stories of this year’s Oscars was the domination by Ryan Coogler’s Sinners. With an impressive 16 nominations, the film broke previously held records by classic films such as Titanic and La La Land, which had topped at 14. Sinners was recognized across a range of categories, including Best Picture, Best Director for Coogler, Best Actor for Michael B. Jordan, and Best Original Screenplay, reflecting both its support and praise from the industry.
A close competitor was Paul Thoam Anderson’s One Battle After Another, which earned an outstanding 13 nominations for Best Picture and Best Director, as well as some acting mentions for Leonardo DiCaprio and other significant actors. Many other films also left their strong mark on the Oscars, with films such as Marty Supreme, Hamnet, and Bugonia.
The acting categories featured a large variety of both diverse and talented nominees. For Best Actor, the competitors ranged from Leonardo DiCaprio to Michael B. Jordan. For Best Actress, nominees included Jessie Buckley, Emma Stone, all talented and hardworking actors and actresses.
When it comes to the actual ceremony, several different films walked away with major wins that ended the awards. One Battle After Another took multiple awards home in major categories such as Best Picture and Best Director for Paul Thomas Anderson, marking a milestone for Paul, who has been appreciated for many years.
Performances by actors across the films also received major praise with awards going to veteran stars and new talent. These wins highlight how the Oscars can pinpoint talented performances that can grasp both audiences and critics.
The 98th Academy Awards displayed both tradition and drastic change in Hollywood. Ranging from new record-breaking nominations to strong standings from films and actors with diverse themes. The ceremony displays the continuing evolution of the film industry, making memorable moments that will continue to shape movies for the future.
