The 2025 Critics Choice Awards: A Celebration of Cinematic Excellence
SHARE
The anticipation for the 30th annual Critics Choice Awards is building as the nominations for the film categories were unveiled on December 12, 2024. Scheduled to air live on January 12, 2025, this prestigious event will be hosted by comedian Chelsea Handler for the third consecutive year.
The Critics Choice Awards, known for their ability to predict Academy Award nominations, will honor the finest achievements in film and television over the past year.
Leading the nominations are two highly acclaimed films: Wicked and Conclave, each securing an impressive 11 nominations. Both films are in contention for coveted awards such as Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Acting Ensemble. The nominations reflect a diverse range of genres and themes, showcasing the creative talents of filmmakers and actors alike.
Wicked, an adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, has garnered significant attention not only for its star-studded cast but also for its technical achievements. Cynthia Erivo is nominated for Best Actress, while Ariana Grande is recognized as a contender for Best Supporting Actress. The film’s director, Jon M. Chu, and its production team have also received nods in various categories, including Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Visual Effects.
On the other hand, Conclave, a gripping religious thriller directed by Edward Berger, has made waves with its intense narrative and powerful performances. Notably, Ralph Fiennes has been nominated for his role in this film, contributing to its standout presence among this year’s nominees.
Following closely behind are two other films, Dune: Part Two and Emilia Pérez, each earning 10 nominations. These films further enrich the competition in categories such as Best Picture and acting awards. The presence of diverse narratives—from epic science fiction to musical comedies—highlights the dynamic landscape of contemporary cinema.
The nominees for major categories include:
– Best Picture
– A Complete Unknown
– Anora
– The Brutalist
– Conclave
– Dune: Part Two
– Emilia Pérez
– Nickel Boys
– Sing Sing
– The Substance
– Wicked
– Best Actor
– Ralph Fiennes – Conclave
– Timothée Chalamet – A Complete Unknown
– Adrien Brody – The Brutalist
– Best Actress
– Cynthia Erivo – Wicked
– Mikey Madison – Anora
– Demi Moore – The Substance
These nominations reflect not only the artistic merit of the films but also their cultural relevance and impact on audiences throughout the year.
In addition to film categories, television nominations were announced earlier, with FX’s Shōgun leading with six nods. Other popular series like *Abbott Elementary* and *What We Do in the Shadows* also received multiple nominations, showcasing a robust selection of television programming that resonates with viewers.
As we approach the ceremony date, excitement continues to build around which films and performances will take home awards. The Critics Choice Awards serve as a vital platform for recognizing excellence in film and television, celebrating both established stars and emerging talent within the industry.
With a blend of humor from Handler’s hosting and heartfelt tributes to cinematic artistry, the Critics Choice Awards promise to be a memorable evening that honors the best of entertainment from the past year. As fans eagerly await January 12, discussions about potential winners are already heating up across social media platforms and among industry insiders alike.
*Cover Photo/Thumbnail Photo from Getty Images