Oscars 2025: Every Political Statement Made at This Year’s Ceremony

The 97th Academy Awards: A Night of Triumph and Advocacy

Anora’s Historic Triumph and Advocacy for the Marginalized
The 97th Academy Awards was a night of milestones, with Anora emerging as the standout film, winning Best Picture and multiple top honors. Mikey Madison won Best Actress for her powerful portrayal in this comedy/romance about a sex worker, while Adrien Brody claimed the Best Actor award for his role in The Brutalist. The evening was not only a celebration of cinematic excellence but also a platform for advocacy, as many winners addressed pressing social issues.

Director Sean Baker’s Historic Win and Call for Change
Sean Baker made history by becoming the first person to win four Oscars for a single film, Anora. In his acceptance speeches, Baker championed independent filmmaking and the importance of theatrical experiences, emphasizing the communal joy of cinema. He also advocated for the decriminalization of sex work, urging societal change through his work.

Celebrating Heritage and Hope: Zoe Saldana and Walter Salles
Zoe Saldana, winning Best Supporting Actress for Emilia Pérez, shared a deeply personal moment, honoring her Dominican heritage and immigrant roots. Her speech highlighted the significance of representation, making her the first Dominican-American to receive an Oscar. Walter Salles, director of I’m Still Here, celebrated Brazilian cinema’s recognition and reflected on democracy’s fragility, drawing parallels between Brazil’s past and the global present.

Adrien Brody and Basel Adra: Voices for Justice and Unity
Adrien Brody, in his second Oscar win, spoke against hate and oppression, advocating for inclusivity. His words echoed the lingering traumas of war and systemic oppression. Basel Adra and Yuval Abraham, co-directors of No Other Land, addressed the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, calling for justice and unity in their acceptance speech, emphasizing the need for collective action to end suffering.

A Night of Representation and Reflection
The Oscars showcased the power of storytelling as a tool for change and representation. From celebrating cultural heritage to addressing global conflicts, the winners used their platform to inspire and advocate, leaving a lasting impact beyond the ceremony.

This event not only honored cinematic achievements but also served as a call to action, reminding us of the enduring power of storytelling to challenge and transform society.