The 97th Academy Awards, set for March 2, 2025, are shaping up to be a historic event with several groundbreaking moments expected to unfold. From record-breaking nominations to major milestones in diversity and representation, this year’s Oscars could redefine the landscape of Hollywood. Here are some key historic moments to watch for:
1. Karla Sofía Gascón’s Trailblazing Nomination
Spanish actress Karla Sofía Gascón has made history as the first openly transgender performer to receive an Academy Award nomination. She stars in Emilia Pérez, portraying a drug lord undergoing gender affirmation surgery. If she wins, it will mark a significant moment for transgender representation in the film industry.
2. Emilia Pérez Dominates as a Non-English Film
With a record 13 nominations, Emilia Pérez has set a new benchmark for non-English-language films at the Oscars. If it wins Best Picture, it will be the first film outside the English language to claim the honor, reinforcing the Academy’s growing recognition of international cinema.
3. A Potential Historic Win for Female Directors
Coralie Fargeat is the only female director nominated this year for her body horror film The Substance. If she wins, she will become just the fourth woman to ever claim the Best Director award, underscoring the need for greater gender inclusivity in Hollywood’s top honors.
4. Brazil’s Cinematic Breakthrough
Brazilian actress Fernanda Torres has received a nomination for I’m Still Here, making her the second Brazilian actress to be recognized in this category. If she wins, she will be the first Brazilian actress to ever take home an Oscar, marking a monumental moment for South American cinema.
5. Timothée Chalamet’s Record-Breaking Achievement
At just 29 years old, Timothée Chalamet has earned his second Best Actor nomination for his portrayal of Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown. This makes him the youngest two-time nominee in the category since James Dean, further solidifying his reputation as one of the most talented actors of his generation.
6. Latino Representation at an All-Time High
With multiple Latino performers nominated across acting categories, this year’s Oscars showcase unprecedented Latino representation. From Zoe Saldaña in Emilia Pérez to Monica Barbaro in A Complete Unknown, the growing diversity highlights Hollywood’s evolving storytelling.
7. Diane Warren’s 16th Attempt at an Oscar
Legendary songwriter Diane Warren has received her 16th nomination for Best Original Song with The Journey from The Six Triple Eight. Despite her many nominations, she has yet to secure an Oscar. Could 2025 be her year?
8. Cynthia Erivo’s Shot at EGOT Glory
Already an Emmy, Grammy, and Tony winner, Cynthia Erivo is nominated for Best Actress for her role as Elphaba in Wicked. If she wins, she will join the exclusive club of EGOT winners, making her one of the few performers to achieve this prestigious honor.
9. The Resurgence of Movie Musicals
For the first time since 1969, two musicals—Emilia Pérez and Wicked—are in contention for Best Picture. If one of them wins, it will be the first musical to take home the top award since Chicago in 2003, signaling a revival of the genre in mainstream cinema.
As we approach the 2025 Oscars, these potential milestones promise an unforgettable night filled with history-making moments. Whether through groundbreaking wins, increased diversity, or genre-defining achievements, this year’s Academy Awards will be one to remember.
