The 98th Academy Awards nominations, announced in January, have set the stage for what promises to be a fiercely competitive ceremony on March 15 at the Dolby Theatre.
With “Sinners,” Ryan Coogler’s visceral horror-drama set in 1930s Mississippi, shattering records by securing 16 nods, surpassing the previous high of 14 held by classics like “Titanic” and “La La Land” the field reflects a diverse tapestry of storytelling.
Close behind is Paul Thomas Anderson’s satirical epic “One Battle After Another” with 13 nominations, underscoring a year where genre-bending films and international voices dominated.
Here’s a full rundown, infused with critical analysis on why these selections resonate, or occasionally falter in the broader cinematic landscape.
Best Picture: A Battleground of Ambition and Innovation
The Best Picture category features 10 films that encapsulate 2025’s cinematic zeitgeist: tales of horror, historical introspection, and speculative futures.
Leading the pack is “Sinners,” a vampire-infused narrative starring Michael B. Jordan in dual roles, which not only broke nomination records but also earned a 97% on Rotten Tomatoes for its unflinching exploration of racial terror and resilience. Coogler’s film masterfully blends genre thrills with social commentary, making it a frontrunner; its technical prowess in sound, visuals, and score elevates what could have been pulpy into profound allegory. Yet, its dominance raises questions about Academy favoritism toward high-concept blockbusters.
Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another,” a sprawling satire on American politics with Leonardo DiCaprio in the lead, garners 13 nods and feels like a timely riposte to contemporary divisions. Critics have lauded its chaotic energy and ensemble depth, but some argue its broad strokes risk alienating viewers seeking subtlety. “Frankenstein,” Guillermo del Toro’s gothic reimagining, stands out for its visual splendor (nine nominations), blending horror with empathy in a way that echoes del Toro’s “The Shape of Water.” Jacob Elordi’s monstrous turn adds layers, though the film’s fidelity to Mary Shelley’s themes might feel overly reverent to some.
“Sentimental Value,” Joachim Trier’s Norwegian drama, emerges as a quiet powerhouse with nine nods and a 96% Tomatometer score, praised for its intimate portrayal of familial bonds and loss. Renate Reinsve’s performance is a revelation, building on her “The Worst Person in the World” breakout. “Hamnet,” Chloé Zhao’s adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s novel about Shakespeare’s family grief, offers poetic visuals but has been critiqued for its languid pace, despite eight nominations.
Sports dramas “Marty Supreme” and “F1” inject adrenaline: Josh Safdie’s ping-pong saga with Timothée Chalamet is a kinetic underdog story, while Joseph Kosinski’s racing epic boasts stunning effects. “The Secret Agent,” Kleber Mendonça Filho’s Brazilian thriller, tops Tomatometer at 98% for its grindhouse stylings and political bite – a deserving international contender. Yorgos Lanthimos’s “Bugonia,” a conspiracy-laden comedy with Emma Stone, delights in absurdity but may divide with its offbeat tone. Finally, “Train Dreams,” a meditative Western, rounds out the list with introspective depth, though it risks being overshadowed by flashier peers.
In my view, this lineup celebrates diversity – from indie Norwegian fare to big-budget spectacles – but snubs like “Wicked: For Good” highlight the Academy’s occasional blind spots toward musicals. “Sinners” could sweep if voters prioritize innovation, but “One Battle” might appeal to those favoring auteur-driven narratives.
Directing: Visionaries at the Helm
The directing nominees showcase bold auteurs: Paul Thomas Anderson (“One Battle After Another”) for his masterful orchestration of chaos; Ryan Coogler (“Sinners”) for blending horror with historical gravitas; Chloé Zhao (“Hamnet”) for her naturalistic poetry; Josh Safdie (“Marty Supreme”) for high-octane pacing; and Joachim Trier (“Sentimental Value”) for emotional precision.
Anderson’s direction is a tour de force, weaving satire with pathos in a film that critiques power structures without preachiness. Coogler’s handling of dual timelines and visceral scares marks him as a generational talent, potentially earning his first win. Zhao’s ethereal touch suits “Hamnet’s” grief-stricken world, though some find it too restrained. Safdie’s frenetic style captures the thrill of competition, while Trier’s subtle framing elevates everyday drama to art. This category feels balanced, but the absence of del Toro for “Frankenstein” is a notable oversight, given its visual innovation.
Actor in a Leading Role: Powerhouses and Breakouts
Timothée Chalamet (“Marty Supreme”) channels manic energy as a ping-pong prodigy, a transformative role that could net him gold after multiple nods. Leonardo DiCaprio (“One Battle After Another”) delivers a career-highlight performance as a beleaguered politician, blending vulnerability with bravado – vintage PTA collaboration. Ethan Hawke (“Blue Moon”) brings quiet intensity to a musician’s downfall, a subtle turn in a smaller film that punches above its weight.
Michael B. Jordan’s dual portrayal in “Sinners” is electrifying, embodying twin brothers with nuance that transcends genre; it’s a first nomination that feels overdue. Wagner Moura (“The Secret Agent”) anchors the Brazilian thriller with raw charisma, infusing political intrigue with humanity.
Critically, Jordan’s work stands out for its emotional depth amid horror elements, positioning him as a favorite. Chalamet’s physical commitment impresses, but DiCaprio’s gravitas might sway traditionalists.
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Actress in a Leading Role: Depth and Diversity
Jessie Buckley (“Hamnet”) embodies maternal anguish with shattering authenticity, a performance that cements her as a force. Rose Byrne (“If I Had Legs I’d Kick You”) surprises with comedic bite in a quirky indie, showcasing range often overlooked. Kate Hudson (“Song Sung Blue”) revives her dramatic chops in a musical biopic, evoking vulnerability.
Renate Reinsve (“Sentimental Value”) delivers a layered portrait of regret and renewal, building on her international acclaim. Emma Stone (“Bugonia”) thrives in Lanthimos’s weirdness, her alien-like poise adding intrigue.
Buckley’s raw emotion makes her a frontrunner, though Reinsve’s subtlety could upset. Hudson’s nod feels like a comeback, but the category’s strength lies in its mix of established and emerging talents.
Actor in a Supporting Role: Scene-Stealers Shine
Benicio Del Toro (“One Battle After Another”) brings gravitas as a shadowy advisor, his menace understated yet potent. Jacob Elordi (“Frankenstein”) transforms into the creature with poignant physicality, a breakout that elevates the film. Delroy Lindo (“Sinners”) infuses paternal wisdom with heartbreak, a veteran finally recognized.
Sean Penn (“One Battle After Another”) chews scenery as a rival politico, but his intensity borders on caricature. Stellan Skarsgård (“Sentimental Value”) offers quiet wisdom, grounding the drama.
Elordi’s innovative take on a classic role impresses most; Lindo’s emotional anchor in “Sinners” could win for representation.
Actress in a Supporting Role: Ensemble Excellence
Elle Fanning (“Sentimental Value”) captures youthful turmoil with finesse. Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, also from “Sentimental,” adds familial tension. Amy Madigan (“Weapons”) delivers fiery grit in a thriller. Wunmi Mosaku (“Sinners”) exudes quiet strength amid chaos. Teyana Taylor (“One Battle After Another”) steals scenes with sharp wit.
This category highlights “Sentimental’s” ensemble, but Mosaku’s poised performance in a horror context stands out as innovative.
Screenplay Categories: Words That Wound and Heal
Original Screenplay nods go to “Blue Moon” (Robert Kaplow), “It Was Just an Accident” (Jafar Panahi et al.), “Marty Supreme” (Ronald Bronstein & Josh Safdie), “Sentimental Value” (Eskil Vogt & Joachim Trier), and “Sinners” (Ryan Coogler). Coogler’s script masterfully intertwines history and horror, while Trier’s dialogue rings with authenticity.
Adapted Screenplay: “Bugonia” (Will Tracy), “Frankenstein” (Guillermo del Toro), “Hamnet” (Chloé Zhao & Maggie O’Farrell), “One Battle After Another” (Paul Thomas Anderson), “Train Dreams” (Clint Bentley & Greg Kwedar). Anderson’s adaptation sparkles with wit, but del Toro’s faithful yet fresh take on Shelley impresses.
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Technical and Artistic Categories: Craft at Its Finest
Cinematography honors “Frankenstein’s” moody shadows (Dan Laustsen), “Marty Supreme’s” dynamic shots (Darius Khondji), “One Battle’s” vibrant chaos (Michael Bauman), “Sinners'” atmospheric dread (Autumn Durald Arkapaw), and “Train Dreams'” vast landscapes (Adolpho Veloso). Durald Arkapaw’s work in “Sinners” is transformative, using light to underscore racial themes.
Production Design nods emphasize immersive worlds: “Frankenstein’s” gothic sets, “Hamnet’s” Elizabethan authenticity. Costume Design celebrates period flair in “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” “Frankenstein,” etc.
Original Score: Jerskin Fendrix’s eerie “Bugonia,” Alexandre Desplat’s haunting “Frankenstein,” Max Richter’s poignant “Hamnet,” Jonny Greenwood’s eclectic “One Battle,” Ludwig Göransson’s rhythmic “Sinners.” Göransson’s fusion of jazz and tension could repeat his “Oppenheimer” success.
Original Song: Standouts like “I Lied To You” from “Sinners” blend soulful lyrics with narrative punch.
Animated Feature: “Elio” from Pixar competes with international gems like “Arco.” Documentary Feature includes timely exposés like “The Alabama Solution.”
Visual Effects: “Avatar: Fire and Ash” leads with groundbreaking tech, while “Sinners” innovates in practical horrors.
Sound and Editing categories reward precision in action-packed “F1” and rhythmic “Sinners.”
International Feature: “The Secret Agent” (Brazil) vies with “Sentimental Value” (Norway), highlighting global storytelling.
Surprises, Snubs, and Predictions
Surprises abound: “Sinners'” record haul validates genre films; first-time nods for Elordi, Mosaku, and others diversify the field. Snubs include “Wicked: For Good’s” shutout, perhaps due to musical fatigue, and overlooked indies like “Viva Verdi!”
As a critic, “Sinners” feels like the zeitgeist film, likely to win Best Picture and Director for its cultural resonance. Acting wins might go to Jordan and Buckley for emotional heft. This year’s Oscars celebrate risk-takers, signaling a vibrant future for cinema amid industry challenges.
