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Oscars 2025 Winners List: ‘Anora’ Wins Five Academy Awards, Including Four for Filmmaker Sean Baker

Oscars 2025 Winners List: ‘Anora’ Wins Five Academy Awards, Including Four for Filmmaker Sean Baker

A Historic Night at the 97th Academy Awards

The 2025 Academy Awards will be remembered as a defining moment in modern cinema, with Sean Baker’s Anora emerging as the biggest winner of the night. This independent film, known for its raw storytelling and powerful performances, claimed five Oscars, including four for Baker himself—an unprecedented feat for an indie filmmaker.

With its gripping narrative, stunning direction, and standout performances, Anora solidified its place in cinematic history, proving that independent films can dominate Hollywood’s most prestigious stage. Let’s dive into the full Oscars 2025 winners list and explore how Anora stole the spotlight.

Oscars 2025: Full List of Major Winners

Best Picture: Anora

Sean Baker’s Anora took home the night’s most coveted award, defeating stiff competition from both major studios and indie films. The win cements Anora as a modern masterpiece, demonstrating the power of authentic, character-driven storytelling over blockbuster spectacle.

**Best Director: Sean Baker (Anora)**

Baker’s innovative approach to filmmaking—favoring naturalistic performances, real-world locations, and raw emotion—earned him his first Academy Award for Best Director. His work on Anora showcases the strength of independent cinema, proving that compelling narratives resonate more than extravagant budgets.

**Best Actress: Mikey Madison (Anora)**

In a category filled with powerhouse performances, Mikey Madison’s portrayal of Anora stood out. Her deeply nuanced, emotionally charged performance captured the complexities of her character’s journey, earning her a well-deserved Best Actress win.

Best Original Screenplay: Anora

Sean Baker’s ability to craft authentic dialogue, layered storytelling, and emotionally rich characters earned Anora the award for Best Original Screenplay. The film’s script seamlessly blends realism with poetic depth, making it one of the most celebrated screenplays of the decade.

Best Editing: Anora

Another award for Baker’s team, Anora‘s dynamic, fluid editing played a significant role in enhancing the film’s immersive experience. The seamless storytelling and natural pacing contributed to the film’s emotional depth and critical acclaim.

Other Notable Winners at the Oscars 2025

While Anora was the dominant force at the Academy Awards, other films also took home prestigious honors:

Best Actor – Paul Giamatti (The Holdovers)
Best Supporting Actress – Da’Vine Joy Randolph (The Holdovers)
Best Supporting Actor – Robert Downey Jr. (Oppenheimer)
Best Cinematography – Oppenheimer
Best Visual Effects – Dune: Part Two
Best International Feature Film – The Zone of Interest

These wins reflect a diverse and competitive Oscars year, with both independent and major studio films making an impact.

**Why Anora Dominated the Oscars 2025**

A Groundbreaking Independent Film

Unlike traditional Oscar-winning films backed by Hollywood’s biggest studios, Anora was a passion project led by Sean Baker, a director known for capturing authentic human experiences. His previous works, The Florida Project and Tangerine, laid the groundwork for Anora’s success, but it was this film that solidified his status as one of the most influential directors of his generation.

Powerful Storytelling That Resonates Globally

The film’s themes of identity, survival, and self-discovery struck a chord with audiences worldwide. Unlike mainstream productions, Anora immerses viewers in its protagonist’s world, making it a deeply personal yet universally relatable experience.

Oscar-Worthy Performances

Mikey Madison’s Best Actress win is a testament to the power of raw, intimate acting. Her ability to convey complex emotions without over-dramatization is what made her performance truly standout. With a compelling supporting cast and Baker’s signature directing style, Anora became an unforgettable cinematic experience.

**The Industry Impact of Anora’s Oscar Sweep**

The Rise of Indie Cinema at the Academy Awards

Anora’s success signals a major shift in the film industry—where storytelling and creativity are taking precedence over massive budgets. This win is an inspiration for independent filmmakers worldwide, proving that authenticity and artistic integrity can triumph over traditional Hollywood formulas.

What’s Next for Sean Baker and Mikey Madison?

Following their Oscar wins, both Baker and Madison are expected to take on more ambitious projects. While Baker has remained tight-lipped about his next film, his track record suggests he will continue exploring real-world narratives with emotional depth. Meanwhile, Madison’s Best Actress win has solidified her place in Hollywood, making her one of the most sought-after talents of the year.

**Final Thoughts: Anora’s Legacy in Cinema**

The 97th Academy Awards wasn’t just a celebration of film—it was a statement on the future of storytelling. Anora’s success marks a turning point for independent cinema, proving that raw, intimate narratives can resonate just as powerfully—if not more—than large-scale productions.

If you haven’t watched Anora yet, now is the time. This Oscar-winning masterpiece isn’t just a film—it’s a cultural moment that will be studied, discussed, and celebrated for years to come.