The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has officially kicked off the race for the 97th annual Academy Awards, set to take place on Sunday, March 2, 2025. As a major event in the film industry, the Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars, are highly anticipated each year.
The Academy Screening Room has released its first batch of eligible titles to its members, including films like Thelma, Shirley, Hit Man, Wildcat, and Ultraman: Rising. These initial titles are just the beginning, with more films expected to be added to the roster as awards season progresses.
Thelma, a comedy featuring veteran actress June Squibb, tells the story of a grandmother who takes matters into her own hands after falling victim to an internet money scam targeting the elderly. Magnolia Pictures is hoping to garner attention for Squibb’s performance in the film.
Netflix has also entered the race with multiple offerings. Hit Man, a Richard Linklater comedy, showcases Glen Powell in a versatile role that has caught the eye of critics. Meanwhile, Shirley, starring Regina King as Shirley Chisolm, explores the historic political run of the first Black woman to seek the Democratic Presidential nomination.
Wildcat, directed by Ethan Hawke, and Ultraman: Rising, an animated feature from Netflix, round out the early contenders vying for recognition from the Academy.
With the recent success of Netflix’s 2022 film Pinocchio at the Academy Awards, the streaming platform is looking to make a splash once again with its diverse lineup of films. The Academy Screening Room provides members with access to these films for consideration, offering various streaming platforms for convenient viewing.
In addition to screenings, the Academy promises members access to exclusive content, including Academy Museum programming and educational sessions on topics like unconscious bias. The organization remains committed to adding more films to the lineup as distributors make them available throughout the season.
Looking Ahead
As the fall festival circuit kicks off in Venice, Telluride, and Toronto, the excitement surrounding the Academy Awards will only continue to grow. The anticipation of which films will make the final cut for nominations and ultimately take home the coveted Oscars makes this awards season one to watch.
In the words of the Academy, “Fasten your seatbelts” as the race for the 97th Annual Academy Awards gathers momentum and sets the stage for another unforgettable evening in Hollywood.