Speculation is rife regarding which films and performances will take home the top honours. As the 2025 Oscars approach, while certain categories appear to have clear frontrunners, the major awards are still up in the air, adding an element of unpredictability and excitement to the upcoming ceremony.

The Sky News entertainment team, including Katie Spencer, Claire Gregory, Bethany Minelle, and Gemma Peplow, have weighed in on their predictions and preferences.

Best film:

The nominees for Best Picture include Anora, The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Emilia Pérez, I’m Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, Wicked and Dune: Part Two. While Conclave is expected to win with its strong ensemble cast and compelling narrative, Anora is also a strong contender. It’s a fresh, indie rags-to-riches story that has garnered significant praise. Experts are divided, with The Brutalist also getting recognition for its masterful storytelling.

Best actor:

The Best Actor category is another hotly contested one, with Adrien Brody’s performance in The Brutalist considered by many as the favorite to win. But Timothee Chalamet’s portrayal in A Complete Unknown is also a strong contender, following his SAG Awards victory. Colman Domingo’s role in Sing Sing has earned him praise for his understated but powerful performance, though many believe Brody will ultimately take home the Oscar.

Best actress:

Demi Moore’s return to the spotlight in The Substance has generated a lot of buzz, with many predicting her victory. But Anora‘s Mikey Madison, who has impressed critics with her portrayal of a damaged character, is also seen as a worthy winner. While Moore’s comeback story makes her a favorite, Madison’s performance has earned her a strong following.

Best supporting actor:

Kieran Culkin’s performance in A Real Pain is widely regarded as a strong contender, and many believe he will win. His performance has resonated with audiences, and his charm during awards season has earned him significant support. But Yura Borisov’s sensitive portrayal in Anora also stands out as a deserving performance in the category.

Best supporting actress:

Zoe Saldana’s performance in Emilia Perez is expected to win, as she has been widely praised for her role in the film. But Felicity Jones’ physically demanding role in The Brutalist and Ariana Grande’s standout performance in Wicked also deserve recognition. Despite the competition, Saldana’s consistent excellence makes her the front-runner.

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Best director:

In the Best Director category, Brady Corbet is predicted to win for his work on The Brutalist, though Sean Baker’s Anora has gained considerable momentum this awards season. Coralie Fargeat’s bold direction in The Substance also deserves recognition, with many applauding her fearless and maximalist approach to filmmaking. While Fargeat’s work has been divisive, her innovative vision has made a lasting impact.