As the 2025 Oscars approach, industry insiders and film fans are closely watching 2024’s standout releases to see which might capture Academy glory. From festival hits to critical darlings, this year’s top contenders promise fierce competition across categories. Here’s a look at the films, directors, and actors most likely to make a splash at the 2025 Oscars.
Note: This article will be updated as we approach the Oscars.
Best Picture Predictions for the 2025 Oscars
Here are some of the top films from 2024 that are poised to dominate the Best Picture category:
- Anora
Directed by Sean Baker, Anora follows Ani, a young Brooklyn sex worker whose impulsive marriage to Vanya, the son of a Russian oligarch, changes her life. The film’s dynamic storytelling and compelling performances have earned high praise, with The Financial Times hailing it as a “future classic.” Anora also won the Palme d’Or at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, making it a strong Best Picture contender. - The Brutalist
Brady Corbet’s The Brutalist is an ambitious film that explores postwar themes with a powerful visual style. Its success at the Venice Film Festival has propelled it into Oscars conversations, positioning it as a major Best Picture contender. - Conclave
Edward Berger’s Conclave dives into the intense election of a new pope, blending high-stakes drama with political intrigue. This film’s gripping narrative has resonated with audiences and critics alike, earning it a likely place in the Best Picture category. - Sing Sing
Directed by Greg Kwedar, Sing Sing stars Colman Domingo in a moving portrayal of life behind bars. With its heartfelt storytelling and emotional depth, this prison drama is gaining momentum as a Best Picture contender. - Dune: Part Two
Denis Villeneuve returns to Arrakis with Dune: Part Two, continuing the saga of Paul Atreides. Known for its grand scale and stunning cinematography, this sequel could secure multiple nominations, including Best Picture.
Best Director Predictions for the 2025 Oscars
Behind these films are directors who have left a significant mark on 2024’s cinematic landscape. Here’s a look at directors likely to contend for Oscars in 2025.
- Sean Baker for Anora
Baker’s authentic and immersive style in Anora has earned him considerable acclaim, making him a likely nominee for Best Director. - Brady Corbet for The Brutalist
Corbet’s ambition and vision have given The Brutalist an edge, positioning him as a strong contender for Best Director. - Edward Berger for Conclave
Known for his compelling storytelling, Berger’s direction in Conclave could earn him a nod for Best Director. - Steve McQueen for Blitz
McQueen’s upcoming Blitz, anticipated to bring fresh historical insight, has generated significant Oscars buzz even before its release. - Denis Villeneuve for Dune: Part Two
Villeneuve’s work on the Dune series has captivated audiences and critics alike, and his directorial vision for Part Two could secure him a nomination.
Best Actor Predictions for 2025 Oscars
Some standout performances in 2024 are setting the stage for a highly competitive Best Actor race. Here are the actors generating the most awards-season buzz:
- Colman Domingo in Sing Sing
Domingo’s powerful role in Sing Sing has earned him acclaim and likely a place among the Best Actor nominees. - Adrien Brody in The Brutalist
Brody’s intense portrayal in The Brutalist has positioned him as a frontrunner in the Best Actor category. - Ralph Fiennes in Conclave
Fiennes’ commanding role in Conclave has critics speculating he could earn his next Oscar nomination. - Paul Mescal in Gladiator II
Mescal brings new energy to Ridley Scott’s historical epic, making him a notable contender for Best Actor. - Jesse Eisenberg in A Real Pain
Eisenberg’s role has been praised for its emotional depth, likely putting him in the running for a nomination.
Best Actress Predictions for the 2025 Oscars
The Best Actress category is equally competitive, with several performances standing out this year:
- Mikey Madison in Anora
Madison’s portrayal of Ani in Anora has critics raving, with some calling her performance Oscar-worthy. - Karla Sofía Gascón in Emilia Pérez
Gascón’s depth in Emilia Pérez has captivated audiences, making her a strong Best Actress contender. - Nicole Kidman in Babygirl
Kidman’s powerful performance has caught the eye of critics and could land her another Oscar nomination. - Angelina Jolie in Maria
Jolie’s role in Maria has received widespread acclaim, making her a potential nominee in the Best Actress category. - Saoirse Ronan in The Outrun
Ronan’s nuanced portrayal in The Outrun has positioned her as a likely candidate for Best Actress.
Join the Conversation!
Which 2024 films do you think deserve a shot at Oscar gold? Share your predictions below as we count down to the 2025 Academy Awards.
Stay tuned for updates to this page as the Oscars season progresses!
