**Oscars 2025: A Night of Surprises, Memorable Kisses, and Gravity-Defying Performances**

Mikey Madison triumphs in a tight best actress race; notable performances include Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande's stunning duet, the heartfelt emotional speeches, and a return of iconic moments.

 

The 2025 Oscars were an extraordinary celebration of cinema, with a blend of glamour, powerful speeches, and unforgettable performances that left audiences buzzing long after the credits rolled.

One of the standout surprises of the night was 25-year-old Mikey Madison taking home the best actress award for her role in the riveting film "Anora," beating out pre-event favorite Demi Moore. Madison's win highlighted a classic underdog story loved by awards ceremonies, considering her ascent from relative obscurity to shining star.

"Anora" tells a compelling narrative focused on sex workers, sparking conversations about societal perceptions, particularly highlighted by Edie Turquet, a dancer in the film, who expressed hopes this win might challenge stereotypes surrounding her community.

Performances during the ceremony were equally notable, with Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande teaming up to deliver a breathtaking rendition of "Defying Gravity." Their performance culminated in a standing ovation, showcasing the talent and charisma both actresses brought to the stage. Earlier, Grande dazzled attendees in a stunning red gown as she opened the show with "Somewhere Over the Rainbow."

In a nostalgic moment that took fans back to the 2003 Oscars, Halle Berry surprised everyone by planting a kiss on Adrien Brody, reminiscent of Brody’s emotional acceptance kiss two decades prior. Berry explained to Variety that it was all in good fun, especially since Brody's girlfriend was supportive of the gesture.

Another pair making headlines were Kylie Jenner and Timothée Chalamet, who were spotted sharing a tender kiss amidst the crowd, highlighting the romantic atmosphere of the night.

However, some moments took a more humorous turn—comic host Conan O'Brien poked fun at Adam Sandler’s casual attire, prompting Sandler to theatrically announce his exit before hilariously shouting Timothée Chalamet's surname, leaving the audience in stitches.

The backdrop of the ceremony was the recent devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, which claimed many lives. O'Brien invited firefighters to the stage, honoring their bravery and delivering thoughtful jokes—even involving the current events surrounding the Joker sequel.

There were also teary and poignant acceptance speeches, like Zoe Saldaña’s, who won best supporting actress for a powerful role in "Emilia Pérez." She choked back tears as she expressed gratitude to her family and emphasized her identity as an American of Dominican origin, representing her heritage with pride.

A riveting tale emerged from Iranian filmmakers Hossein Molayemi and Shirin Sohani, who won the Academy Award for best animated short just hours after arriving in Los Angeles following an intense visa struggle. Their film, "In the Shadow of the Cypress," became symbolic of resilience and hope.

Politics, too, found a way into the ceremony through humor and poignant moments, with references to global events slipping into hosting dialogues and acceptance speeches, including sentiments about the war in Ukraine.

While the night sparkled with laughter, tears, and spectacular moments, many anticipated jabs at political figures, particularly former President Trump, were noticeably absent during the evening's discussion—a sign of evolving sentiments in Hollywood.

Overall, the Oscars 2025 not only honored cinematic achievements but encapsulated a night of heartfelt connections and memories, resonating with a global audience.