Historic milestones: the 2025 oscars shatter multiple records

The 97th Academy Awards delivered an evening full of surprises, fierce competition and groundbreaking achievements. With an exceptionally strong lineup of films and talent, this year’s Oscars proved to be a night of historic firsts. From major wins in animation and international film to groundbreaking individual achievements, the ceremony saw multiple records rewritten. Here’s a look at the records that were shattered on Hollywood’s biggest night.
'Flow' becomes the first independent and latvian film to win best animated feature
The animated feature 'Flow' made history in more ways than one. Not only did it become the first independent film to ever win the Oscar for 'Best Animated Feature,' but it also marked a major milestone for Latvia by securing the country’s first win in the category. Adding to its groundbreaking journey, 'Flow' had already set a precedent before the ceremony even began by becoming the first animated film ever nominated for 'Best International Feature.' Its triumph signals a significant moment for independent and international animation in the Academy’s history.
Paul Tazewell breaks barriers in best costume design
With his work on 'Wicked,' Paul Tazewell earned the Oscar for 'Best Costume Design,' marking a historic achievement. Having been previously nominated for his contributions to 'West Side Story' (2021), Tazewell’s victory this year made him the first Black man to win in the category. His award highlights not just his exceptional talent but also an overdue step toward greater recognition of diversity in behind-the-scenes roles within the film industry.
Zoe Saldana becomes the first dominican actor to win an acting oscar
The race for 'Best Supporting Actress' was one of the most unpredictable of the evening, but in the end, Zoe Saldana took home the trophy for her role in 'Emilia Perez.' Her win was historic, making her the first Dominican actor to ever claim an Oscar in any acting category. Despite some debate surrounding the film’s reception, Saldaña’s triumph is a landmark moment, solidifying her place in the Academy’s record books and paving the way for more diverse representation in Hollywood.
'I’m Still Here' brings Brazil its first oscar win
Brazilian cinema achieved a monumental breakthrough with 'I’m Still Here,' which won 'Best International Feature Film.' Given the film’s dual nomination for Best Picture, its victory in the international category wasn’t entirely unexpected, but its significance cannot be overstated—this marks the first-ever Oscar win for Brazil. The achievement represents a major moment for Brazilian filmmakers and could open doors for more recognition of the country’s cinematic contributions on a global scale.
'Emilia Perez' sets an unfortunate record in the international feature category
While 'I’m Still Here' celebrated victory, 'Emilia Perez' found itself on the opposite side of history. As both films were nominated for 'Best International Feature' and 'Best Picture,' the loss in the International category made Emilia Perez the first film to receive nominations in both categories and yet fail to win Best International Feature. Typically, when an international film is nominated for Best Picture, it dominates the International Feature category as well, making Emilia Perez’s loss an unexpected and unique moment in Oscar history.
Adrien Brody’s flawless oscar record continues
In one of the most competitive Best Actor races in years, Adrien Brody emerged victorious for his performance in 'The Brutalist.' His win set a rare record—Brody has now won the Oscar for Best Actor in both of his first two nominations. His previous win came for 'The Pianist' over two decades ago, and with this second triumph, he joins an elite group of actors who have maintained a perfect win rate at the Academy Awards.
Sean Baker matches walt disney’s oscar record in a single night
Sean Baker had an unforgettable evening at the Oscars, winning four awards for his work on 'Anora.' Taking home Best Director, Best Editing, Best Original Screenplay and Best Picture, Baker matched a record held by Walt Disney for the most Oscars won by an individual in a single night. While Disney achieved his feat across multiple projects, Baker’s accomplishment is particularly impressive, as all his awards stemmed from the same film. His success with 'Anora' cements his place as one of the most dynamic filmmakers in recent memory.
The 2025 Oscars proved to be one of the most memorable ceremonies in recent history, with records broken across multiple categories. From historic firsts for independent and international films to groundbreaking achievements by individual artists, the night reflected the evolving landscape of the Academy Awards. As the industry continues to shift toward greater inclusivity and global representation, this year’s winners have set a precedent that will shape the future of cinema for years to come.