The 30th Annual Critics Choice Awards 2025 was a night to remember, filled with memorable speeches, unexpected wins, and a grand celebration of cinematic excellence. Held at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California, on February 7, 2025, this year’s ceremony was hosted by the hilarious and sharp-witted Chelsea Handler, who returned for another year after her stellar performance in 2024. The Critics Choice Awards are considered one of the most reliable indicators of the Oscars race, and this year’s winners have set the stage for what’s to come in Hollywood’s award season.
The Critics Choice Awards stand apart for their ability to recognize both mainstream blockbusters and independent gems, ensuring that true artistic achievements do not go unnoticed. This year, the red carpet was buzzing with stars from both the film and television industries, dressed in glamorous couture and ready to celebrate the best performances and productions of the year. The event saw the attendance of Hollywood legends, emerging talents, and renowned filmmakers, making it a star-studded evening. Among the big names gracing the red carpet were Leonardo DiCaprio, Margot Robbie, Robert Downey Jr., Zendaya, Bradley Cooper, Emma Stone, Paul Giamatti, and many more. The energy was electric as fans and critics alike anticipated who would take home the coveted trophies.
Biggest Winners of the Night
Best Picture: Anora
The top honor of the night went to Anora, a film that has received rave reviews for its powerful storytelling and compelling performances. The film, directed by Sean Baker, was hailed for its bold narrative and stunning visuals, making it a well-deserved winner. Anora beat out tough competitors like Oppenheimer, Poor Things, and Killers of the Flower Moon, securing its place as a frontrunner in the Oscars race.
Best Director: Jacques Audiard – Emilia Pérez
Jacques Audiard took home the Best Director award for his work on Emilia Pérez, a film that has been praised for its unique storytelling approach and gripping direction. Audiard, known for his masterful storytelling, delivered an acceptance speech filled with gratitude and emotion, crediting his cast and crew for their dedication.
Best Actor: Adrien Brody – The Brutalist
In one of the most competitive categories of the night, Adrien Brody won Best Actor for his brilliant performance in The Brutalist. Brody’s portrayal of a struggling architect navigating post-war America left critics and audiences mesmerized.
Best Actress: Demi Moore – The Substance
Demi Moore made a stunning comeback with her award-winning role in The Substance, a film that explores the dark side of beauty and perfection. Her emotional speech reflected her journey in Hollywood and the importance of women-led narratives in cinema.
Best Supporting Actor: Kieran Culkin – A Real Pain
With his charismatic and moving performance, Kieran Culkin took home the Best Supporting Actor award for A Real Pain. His role as a complex and troubled character resonated with audiences, further solidifying his place as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors.
Best Supporting Actress: Zoe Saldaña – Emilia Pérez
The talented Zoe Saldaña earned Best Supporting Actress for Emilia Pérez, adding another accolade to her already impressive career. Her performance was praised for its depth and authenticity, making her a standout in the category.
Television Triumphs: The Best of the Small Screen
While film dominated the evening, the television categories were just as thrilling. Some of the biggest winners in the TV realm included:
- Best Drama Series: Shōgun
- Best Actor in a Drama Series: Hiroyuki Sanada – Shōgun
- Best Actress in a Drama Series: Kathy Bates – Matlock
- Best Comedy Series: Hacks
- Best Limited Series: Baby Reindeer
One of the biggest shockers was Kathy Bates’ win for Matlock, a performance that has been described as powerful and deeply moving. Meanwhile, Shōgun dominated the drama categories, with Hiroyuki Sanada receiving high praise for his outstanding lead performance.
Memorable Moments and Emotional Speeches
Every awards night has unforgettable moments, and the 2025 Critics Choice Awards was no exception. Some highlights included:
- Demi Moore’s heartfelt speech, where she credited her return to the big screen as a “personal victory” and thanked her fellow actresses for inspiring her.
- Kathy Bates’ genuine shock at winning Best Actress in a Drama Series, where she humorously exclaimed, “I need a minute to process this!”.
- Kieran Culkin’s witty acceptance speech, where he joked about his unexpected rise to fame and gave a heartwarming tribute to his family.
- Leonardo DiCaprio’s standing ovation for Killers of the Flower Moon, despite the film missing out on the top awards.
- A tribute to late actor Matthew Perry, where fellow Friends co-stars honored his legacy with a moving speech.
Fashion Highlights: Red Carpet Glamour
No Critics Choice Awards would be complete without fashion highlights. Some of the best-dressed stars of the night included:
- Zendaya in a breathtaking Valentino gown.
- Timothée Chalamet rocking an edgy Dior suit.
- Margot Robbie embracing classic Hollywood glam in Chanel.
- Florence Pugh dazzling in a bold Alexander McQueen dress.
- Robert Downey Jr. sporting a sleek Tom Ford ensemble.
The red carpet fashion was a mix of classic elegance and bold statements, reflecting the energy of the night.
Critics Choice Awards vs. The Oscars: What Does This Mean?
The Critics Choice Awards are often seen as a precursor to the Oscars, with many winners going on to receive Academy Award nominations. With Anora taking home Best Picture, it has positioned itself as a major contender for the Best Picture Oscar.
Additionally, the strong performances by Adrien Brody, Demi Moore, and Kieran Culkin indicate that these stars may have a clear path to Oscar glory.
Final Thoughts: A Night to Remember
The Critics Choice Awards 2025 was a spectacular night, celebrating the best in film and television while setting the stage for the upcoming Academy Awards. With unexpected wins, emotional speeches, and glamorous moments, the ceremony was a testament to Hollywood’s evolving landscape.
As the awards season continues, all eyes are now on the Oscars, where the biggest showdown in cinema will take place. Whether or not the Critics Choice winners will repeat their success at the Academy Awards remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – this year’s entertainment industry is brimming with talent, creativity, and unforgettable performances.
Stay tuned for more awards season coverage and follow us for all the latest updates on Hollywood’s biggest night! 🎬🏆✨
