2025 Oscar Predictions: Who Will, Could, and Should Win

The 97th Academy Awards Oscar Predictions are upon us, and the race is tighter than ever. With an array of compelling films and performances, predicting the winners is no easy feat. In this comprehensive guide, Oscar Predictions we’ll delve into the frontrunners, potential surprises, and deserving nominees across all major categories.
Best Picture: Anora vs. Conclave
Who Will Win: Anora
Sean Baker’s “Anora” has been a standout this awards season, sweeping major guild Oscar Predictions including the Critics Choice, Producers Guild, and Directors Guild. Its blend of screwball comedy and poignant storytelling has resonated with voters, positioning it as the frontrunner for Best Picture .
Who Could Win: Conclave
“Conclave,” a political thriller directed by Roland Emmerich, has garnered significant attention for its gripping narrative and stellar ensemble cast. While it hasn’t secured as many precursor awards as “Anora,” its timely subject matter and critical acclaim make it a strong contender .
Who Should Win: The Brutalist
Oscar Predictions Despite its lengthy runtime, “The Brutalist” has been lauded for its ambitious storytelling and historical depth. Directed by Brady Corbet and starring Adrien Brody, the film’s exploration of post-Holocaust trauma offers a profound cinematic experience .
Best Actor: Brody vs. Chalamet
Who Will Win: Adrien Brody
Brody’s portrayal of a Holocaust refugee in “The Brutalist” has earned him critical acclaim and major award wins, including the Golden Globe and BAFTA. His transformative performance positions him as the likely winner in this category .
Who Could Win: Timothée Chalamet
Chalamet’s portrayal of Bob Dylan in “A Complete Unknown” has been a revelation, showcasing his versatility and depth as an actor. His recent SAG Award win has bolstered his Oscar prospects, making him a formidable challenger to Brody .
Who Should Win: Adrien Brody
While Chalamet’s performance is noteworthy, Brody’s nuanced and emotionally charged portrayal in “The Brutalist” stands out as the most compelling in this category.
Best Actress: Moore vs. Madison
Who Will Win: Demi Moore
Moore’s comeback performance in “The Substance,” where she plays a former A-list actress undergoing a monstrous transformation, has captivated audiences and critics alike. Her fearless portrayal of Hollywood’s ageism issues has made her a frontrunner in this category .
Who Could Win: Mikey Madison
Madison’s performance in “Anora” has been a revelation, earning her the BAFTA for Best Actress. Her compelling portrayal of a sex worker fighting against Russian oligarchs has garnered significant attention, positioning her as a strong contender .
Who Should Win: Mikey Madison
While Moore’s performance is impressive, Madison’s breakout role in “Anora” offers a fresh and powerful perspective, making her the deserving winner in this category.
Best Director: Baker vs. Emmerich
Who Will Win: Sean Baker
Baker’s direction in “Anora” has been widely praised for its innovative storytelling and character development. His success in securing major guild awards underscores his strong position in this race .
Who Could Win: Roland Emmerich
Oscar Predictions Emmerich’s direction of “Conclave” has been lauded for its tension-filled narrative and strong performances. While he hasn’t secured as many precursor awards as Baker, his experience and the film’s critical acclaim make him a viable contender .
Who Should Win: Sean Baker
Oscar Predictions Baker’s unique vision and direction in “Anora” have set a new benchmark in filmmaking, making him the deserving winner in this category.
Best Original Screenplay: The Substance vs. Anora
Who Will Win: The Substance
“The Substance” stands out for its sharp, satirical script that delves into Hollywood’s obsession with youth and beauty. The screenplay’s wit and relevance have made it a favorite among voters .
Who Could Win: Anora
Oscar Predictions While “Anora” has been recognized for its direction, its screenplay also deserves mention for its compelling narrative and character development. Its blend of humor and drama offers a unique cinematic experience .
Who Should Win: The Substance
The originality and boldness of “The Substance’s” screenplay make it the standout choice in this category.
Best Adapted Screenplay: Conclave vs. The Brutalist
Who Will Win: Conclave
“Conclave’s” adaptation of its source material into a gripping political thriller has been widely praised. Its intelligent and engaging script positions it as the likely winner in this category .
Who Could Win: The Brutalist
While “The Brutalist” has been recognized for its direction, its screenplay also deserves mention for its deep exploration of post-Holocaust trauma. Its historical depth offers a compelling narrative .
Who Should Win: Conclave
Oscar Predictions The sharp and engaging script of “Conclave” makes it the deserving winner in this category.
Best International Feature: I’m Still Here vs. Emilia Pérez
Who Will Win: I’m Still Here
Brazil’s “I’m Still Here” has captivated audiences with its poignant portrayal of a family dealing with the aftermath of a dictatorship. Its critical acclaim and emotional depth make it the likely winner in this category .
Who Could Win: Emilia Pérez
“Emilia Pérez,” a Dominican film, has garnered attention for its exploration of identity and cultural heritage. While it faces strong competition, its unique perspective makes it a contender .
Who Should Win: I’m Still Here
The emotional resonance and storytelling excellence of “I’m Still Here” make it the deserving winner in this category.
Best Production Design: Wicked vs. The Brutalist
Who Will Win: Wicked
“Wicked’s” elaborate sets and fantastical elements have been lauded for their creativity and attention to detail. Its visual splendor positions it as the likely winner in this category .
Who Could Win: The Brutalist
“The Brutalist” offers a stark contrast with its minimalist and period-accurate design, Oscar Predictions immersing viewers in.