​Bowen Yang and Rachel Sennott Announce 97th Oscars Nominations​

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences unveiled the nominations for the 97th Academy Awards today, with comedians Bowen Yang and Rachel Sennott hosting the announcement from the Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Beverly Hills. Their lighthearted yet engaging delivery brought excitement to one of the most anticipated events in Hollywood.

A Celebration of Cinema

This year’s Oscar nominations showcased a diverse array of films spanning multiple genres, from blockbuster epics to intimate indie dramas. Leading the pack was Echoes of the Past, a historical drama that earned 11 nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor. Other notable films securing multiple nominations included the sci-fi thriller Nebula Rising and the surprise indie hit Midnight on Mulholland.

First-Time Nominees and Historic Milestones

The 2025 Oscars also recognized several first-time nominees, including rising stars like Amari Jackson, who received a Best Supporting Actor nod for his breakout role in The Last Light, and director Sofia Ramos, who became the first Latina filmmaker nominated for Best Director.

For the first time in Academy history, two animated films—Skybound and The Wild Within—were nominated for Best Picture, highlighting the growing influence of animation in mainstream cinema.

Industry and Fan Reactions

The nominations sparked widespread discussion on social media, with fans celebrating the recognition of underrepresented voices and fresh talent in the industry. Film critics noted that the Academy has continued its trend toward inclusivity, following years of controversy over diversity in Oscar nominations.

Rachel Sennott, known for her roles in Bottoms and Shiva Baby, infused humor into the presentation, jokingly lamenting that her own film wasn’t nominated. Bowen Yang, a Saturday Night Live veteran, quipped about the sheer volume of biopics in this year’s lineup, keeping the mood light as nominees were revealed.

Looking Ahead to the Ceremony

The 97th Academy Awards will take place on March 9, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, with late-night host Jimmy Fallon set to emcee. With a strong mix of established legends and new faces in the industry, the ceremony is expected to be one of the most exciting in recent years.