The 30th Critics Choice Awards nominations were announced this week, and they’ve given us a clearer picture of which films are likely to be major players in the race for the 2025 Oscars.
Six Lock-Solid Contenders
Based on nominations from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Golden Globes, and now the Critics Choice Awards, six films have emerged as front-runners:
- Focus’ Conclave
- Universal’s Wicked
- Netflix’s Emilia Pérez
- Warners’ Dune: Part Two
- A24’s The Brutalist
- Neon’s Anora
These films have consistently garnered critical acclaim and nominations across various awards bodies, making their presence on the Oscar ballot highly probable.
The Surging Stars
Several films have made impressive strides in recent weeks, boosting their Oscar hopes considerably.
MUBI’s The Substance
Following its Golden Globes nominations for best picture, director, screenplay, actress (Demi Moore), and supporting actress (Margaret Qualley), The Substance received further recognition from the Critics Choice Awards.
Moore’s captivating performance is now considered a strong contender for an Oscar nomination, and the film itself is gaining momentum.
Amazon/MGM’s Nickel Boys
While receiving only a single Golden Globe nomination (best picture), Nickel Boys has consistently impressed critics and industry figures. Its inclusion on prestigious lists like the AFI’s Top 10 and the National Board of Review’s Top 10, along with directing and cinematography awards, has solidified its position as a serious contender.
Facing An Uphill Battle
The Critics Choice Awards revealed some films that might be struggling to make a significant impact on the Oscars race.
Searchlight’s A Real Pain and Paramount’s September 5
Despite early recognition from the Golden Globes, both films failed to secure best picture nominations at the Critics Choice Awards, raising questions about their Oscar potential.
Paramount’s Gladiator II
While Denzel Washington’s performance is receiving attention, Gladiator II might only earn nominations in technical categories. Its lack of critical and industry support for other aspects of the film could hinder its chances for wider recognition.
Other Notable Moments
The Critics Choice Awards also highlighted several performers who are now stronger contenders for Oscar nominations, such as Yura Borisov from Anora and Daniel Craig from Queer.
This year’s awards season is shaping up to be an exciting race with many strong contenders vying for Academy recognition.