The Biggest Oscar Nomination Snubs of 2025: What Were They Thinking?!
Every year, as the Oscar nominations are announced, Hollywood and movie lovers around the globe eagerly wait to see if their favorites have made the cut. And, as tradition dictates, the Academy never fails to shock us with some jaw-dropping snubs—and 2025 was no exception! From heart-wrenching performances to awe-inspiring direction, some of the most deserving contenders were left out in the cold. Let’s dive into the biggest snubs of the 2025 Oscars and try to make sense of the madness.
1. Emily Clarke in The Silent Serenade
When The Silent Serenade premiered, Emily Clarke’s performance as a deaf pianist struggling to connect with her estranged family was hailed as career-defining. Critics and audiences alike were captivated by her emotional depth and authenticity. Yet, somehow, her name was missing from the Best Actress category. Fans took to social media, questioning how such a masterful portrayal could go unrecognized. Emily’s snub is already being compared to Amy Adams’ notorious lack of Oscars over the years.
2. Celestial Storm Left Out of Best Picture
The sci-fi epic Celestial Storm had it all: groundbreaking visual effects, a gripping storyline, and a stellar cast led by Dwayne Johnson and Zendaya. Despite dominating the box office and sparking countless conversations about climate change and human resilience, it failed to secure a Best Picture nod. Sci-fi fans were left scratching their heads, with many labeling this as a missed opportunity for the Academy to embrace more diverse genres.
3. Michael Peña’s Transformative Role in Shadows of the Barrio
Michael Peña delivered a powerhouse performance in Shadows of the Barrio, playing a reformed gang leader navigating his new life while mentoring troubled youth. Critics predicted this would be his golden moment, but the Best Actor category completely overlooked him. The snub has reignited conversations about the Academy’s historical underrepresentation of Latino actors in major categories.
4. Greta Gerwig Shut Out of Best Director for The Women of Windsor
After delivering back-to-back hits, Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of The Women of Windsor, a modern reimagining of Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor, was expected to land her a third Best Director nomination. The film’s nuanced storytelling and Gerwig’s ability to extract unforgettable performances from her ensemble cast were widely praised. Yet, the Best Director lineup was notably male-dominated once again, sparking fresh debates about gender equality in Hollywood.
5. Original Song Snub: "Echoes in the Wind" from Midnight Sonata
If there was one song that dominated playlists and TikTok trends in 2024, it was "Echoes in the Wind". Sung by rising star Lila Harper, this hauntingly beautiful ballad was the emotional backbone of Midnight Sonata. Many assumed it was a shoo-in for a Best Original Song nomination, but the Academy had other plans. Fans are now left to wonder if the Academy voters even listen to soundtracks.
6. Paul Mescal and Saoirse Ronan’s Chemistry in Lost Horizons
Individually, Paul Mescal and Saoirse Ronan are powerhouses. Together, in Lost Horizons, they created cinematic magic. Their portrayal of a couple torn apart by war was gut-wrenching and unforgettable. Despite their individual brilliance, neither received acting nominations. This snub feels like a double blow to fans who were rooting for their recognition.
7. Best Animated Feature: Moonlit Dreams
The enchanting Moonlit Dreams took audiences on a fantastical journey through a world inspired by Japanese folklore. Its stunning animation and emotionally rich narrative made it a fan favorite, yet it failed to make the Best Animated Feature shortlist. Many felt this was a clear oversight in favor of more commercially successful, but less innovative, films.
Why Do These Snubs Keep Happening?
It’s no secret that the Academy has a history of favoring certain genres and styles while ignoring others. Blockbusters, comedies, sci-fi, and even some indie darlings often find themselves on the outside looking in. While the Oscars are undoubtedly prestigious, these snubs remind us that awards aren’t the only measure of a film’s greatness.
Share Your Thoughts
Did your favorite star or movie get snubbed this year? Who do you think deserved a nomination? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation. And don’t forget to stay tuned for our Oscars predictions and live coverage of the big night—because, love it or hate it, the Oscars always give us something to talk about!
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