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 the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion during World War II.
Technical Excellence
The technical mastery behind Wicked has also been acknowledged with a nomination for Best Makeup and Hairstyling. The category highlights the artistry and innovation that bring fantastical worlds and characters to life, further solidifying the film’s reputation as a visual masterpiece.
A Night to Celebrate Black Excellence
This year’s nominations not only honor individual achievements but also reflect a broader shift toward recognizing the diverse voices that shape contemporary cinema. From compelling narratives rooted in history to stories of resilience and self-discovery, the contributions of Black filmmakers, actors, and creatives are driving conversations and redefining what it means to tell universal stories.
As the world awaits the 97th Academy Awards, the recognition of Black talent across so many prestigious categories sets the stage for an unforgettable celebration of cinema’s power to inspire and transform. With nominees like Cynthia Erivo, Colman Domingo, and Zoe Saldaña leading the way, this year’s Oscars promise to highlight the richness of Black creativity on one of the biggest stages in the world.
[Photo: Instagram]
