10 Fearless Predictions for the 2025 Oscars

 

The 2025 Oscars season is officially underway. With nominations just a month away and winners set to be announced two months later, it’s time to shake up the consensus and explore some bold predictions for this year’s awards. While the Oscars often feel predictable, with certain films gaining momentum through precursor awards, surprises can and do happen. Here are 10 fearless forecasts that challenge the current narrative for this year’s Academy Awards.

10. Denis Villeneuve Could Miss Out on a Best Director Nomination
Despite expectations for Denis Villeneuve to secure a nomination for Dune: Part Two, history might repeat itself. The filmmaker was famously snubbed in 2021 for the first Dune installment, and his omission from the Golden Globes Best Director lineup raises concerns. While Dune: Part Two is widely praised as a superior sequel, the Academy may wait to reward Villeneuve for the final installment of the trilogy.

9. Demi Moore Might Nab a Best Actress Nomination
Demi Moore’s transformative performance in The Substance, a chilling body-horror film, is one of the year’s most daring. Despite the Academy’s historical hesitation to recognize horror performances, Moore’s compelling portrayal of Elisabeth’s descent into madness could break through. If nominated, it would mark a triumphant return to the spotlight for Moore, even if a win remains a long shot.

8. Sebastian Stan Could Earn His First Best Actor Nod
Sebastian Stan is making waves with standout roles in The Apprentice and A Different Man. Known for his Marvel tenure, Stan’s transition to dramatic roles might finally land him an Oscar nomination. Whether it’s for his controversial portrayal in The Apprentice or his gripping performance in A Different Man, Stan is poised to become a contender in the Best Actor race.

7. Denzel Washington Might Not Win Best Supporting Actor
Although Denzel Washington is the early favorite for his role in Gladiator II, his frontrunner status could work against him. With two Oscars already under his belt, the Academy might favor rising stars like Kieran Culkin (A Real Pain), whose campaign is gaining momentum. Washington’s impressive performance might fall short in securing him a third Oscar.

6. DreamWorks’ The Wild Robot Could Be a Best Picture Contender
Animated films rarely break into the Best Picture category, but The Wild Robot might be an exception. DreamWorks’ stunning adaptation has resonated with audiences and critics alike, making it a potential dark horse. With nominations expected for Best Animated Feature, Best Song, and Best Score, The Wild Robot could carve a path to the Oscars’ top prize.

5. Gladiator II Might Leave Empty-Handed
Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II has big shoes to fill after the original’s Oscar triumph. However, the sequel’s reception suggests it may struggle to win any awards, despite potential nominations in acting and technical categories. If Denzel Washington doesn’t secure a win, Gladiator II could end the night without a single trophy.

4. Lily-Rose Depp Could Be Nominated for Nosferatu
Horror performances are notoriously overlooked, but Lily-Rose Depp’s haunting portrayal in Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu could defy the trend. Critics have already praised her emotionally charged and physically demanding performance, positioning her as a potential contender in the fiercely competitive Best Actress race.

3. Netflix’s Emilia Pérez Might Lead in Nominations
Emilia Pérez is poised to dominate the Oscars with nominations across major and technical categories. Netflix’s track record for securing multiple nominations positions this divisive yet acclaimed film as a frontrunner. With potential nods for Best Picture, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, and more, Emilia Pérez could lead the 2025 Oscars nomination count.

2. Wicked Could Win the Most Oscars of the Night
The long-awaited adaptation of Wicked is gaining awards-season momentum. With possible wins in categories like Best Picture, Best Actress, and technical achievements, the film could emerge as the night’s biggest winner. If its nominations align with its buzz, Wicked could surpass even its toughest competitors to claim multiple trophies.

1. The Oscars Might Announce a Stunts Category
This bold prediction doesn’t concern the winners or nominees but rather the future of the Oscars. Following the introduction of a Best Casting category for the 2026 ceremony, the Academy might finally announce the long-awaited Best Stunts category during this year’s telecast. Such a move would honor the incredible work of stunt performers and reflect a broader recognition of cinematic artistry.