Highlights from the Oscars 2025: A Memorable Night of Musical Performances and Tributes
The 97th Academy Awards, one of the most anticipated nights in Hollywood, is known as the must-see awards show in the film industry, and this year was no exception.
The Oscars typically host their award show event every January in Los Angeles, CA. However, the Academy had to postpone the awards show to 2 March due to the sudden wildfires that impacted the major city, leaving the audience eagerly awaiting the grand event.
The Oscars, a prestigious global event, honour excellence in filmmaking by bringing together actors, producers, cinematographers, editors, writers, costume designers, and other industry professionals. Films across all genres are submitted to the Academy for consideration, with winners recognised for their outstanding contributions to cinema.
This year’s ceremony was held at the renowned Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, a city that serves as the epicenter of the film and television industry. Home to major studios and production companies, Los Angeles plays a vital role in shaping the entertainment landscape. The event was hosted by Conan O’Brien, a distinguished comedian and television personality, who returned for his fourth consecutive year as host.
The show opened with a montage of last year’s standout films, animations, and musicals, setting the tone for an exciting night and keeping the audience eagerly anticipating what was to come.
As the stage remained in darkness, a familiar voice filled the room – a voice none other than Grammy winner and Oscar nominee Ariana Grande, standing with effortless elegance as she delivered a stunning rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow. Dressed in a dazzling red ball gown, she captivated the audience before Cynthia Erivo took to the stage, her powerful voice commanding the room. The energy soared when Ariana returned, joining Cynthia for a historic duet of Defying Gravity, their first-ever live performance from Wicked. As Cynthia’s platform lifted and she delivered that breathtaking high note, the stage illuminated in a dazzling display of lights.
The performance concluded with a well-deserved standing ovation, marking one of the most unforgettable opening moments in Oscars history.
A James Bond tribute by Lisa, Doja Cat, and Raye
The stage transformed into a dazzling homage to James Bond, featuring elegant ballroom dancers moving in perfect synchrony. Among them was Margaret Qualley, star of The Substance and a nominee in five categories that evening. As the dancers gracefully parted, global K-pop sensation Lisa, from BLACKPINK, descended onto the stage, commanding attention as she launched into a powerful rendition of Live and Let Die.
As Lisa exited, the center stage illuminated with a cascade of sparkling lights. Rising from beneath the stage, Doja Cat emerged, bathed in a soft glow. Dressed in a shimmering, crystal-embellished gown that elegantly outlined her silhouette, she captivated the audience with a soulful and mesmerising performance of Diamonds Are Forever.
But just as the applause settled, RAYE took the stage, her commanding voice filling the room as she delivered a spellbinding rendition of Skyfall. Behind her, golden star-like lights cascaded across the backdrop, creating a cinematic spectacle that enhanced the depth of her sultry, soulful vocals.
A Memoriam of Legends that passed away
Another highlight of the night was when The Academy of Motion Pictures and Arts held an ‘In Memoriam’ – a clip honouring and remembering the actors, actresses, cinematographers, comedians, writers, sound, editors, directors, producers, and many more, who worked in the film industry and sadly passed away the previous year. As the clips played, a live orchestra, a testament to the importance of music in the film industry, provided a moving soundtrack, enhancing the emotional impact of the tribute.
But just when you thought the performances were over, there were more.
The Oscars saved the best for last as the musical night was ending. Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey introduced us to an honorary tribute to the late Quincy Jones, a legendary music composer who worked with notable artists in the music industry before his passing late last year. Actress and artist Queen Latifah performed the Quincy Jones tribute with Ease on Down the Road from The Wiz. Queen Latifah delivered a powerhouse performance, commanding the stage with electrifying energy as dozens of dancers moved perfectly around her.
The 97th Academy Awards truly lived up to its reputation as a night to remember, celebrating the incredible achievements of the film industry and honoring the legends who have shaped it.
