Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Showcases 2025 Oscar Nominee Spotlights

Los Angeles, February 21, 2025 - In the lead-up to the 97th Academy Awards, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is hosting a series of engaging and exclusive events titled "Oscar Nominee Spotlights." These events, running from February 21 to March 1, feature screenings of all nominated films across various categories, insightful panel discussions with nominees, and unique showcases of items from the films.

The series kicks off with the annual "Breaking the Oscars Ceiling" program, focusing this year on the pivotal role of casting directors in the filmmaking process. Esteemed panelists including Carmen Cuba, Julia Kim, and Victoria Thomas will discuss the evolution of casting, its challenges, and the new heights it is reaching, especially with the Academy's recent recognition of casting directors with an official award category.

Highlights of the Spotlight series include discussions on animated short and feature films, documentary films, live-action shorts, cinematography, and best picture nominees. Each session promises an in-depth look at the artistic and technical brilliance behind this year's Oscar-nominated works.

For fans of animation, the museum offers back-to-back events on February 22, starting with screenings of animated short films in the morning followed by a panel discussion on animated feature films in the evening. Notable films like "Inside Out 2" and "Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl" are among the discussed, providing attendees a rare glimpse into the creative processes behind these beloved animations.

The documentary categories are also well represented with separate events for short and feature films on February 23. These sessions will allow filmmakers to share the compelling real-life stories and inspirations behind their impactful works.

In terms of technical artistry, the sessions on cinematography on February 26, and makeup and hairstyling on March 1, will delve into the visual and aesthetic considerations that bring film narratives to life. The makeup and hairstyling panel will be accompanied by a morning showcase in the Sidney Poitier Grand Lobby, displaying intricate items like prosthetic makeup pieces and concept sketches from the nominated films.

Each spotlight event is designed to offer both education and inspiration, catering to film enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Tickets are required for entry and are available for advance reservation through the Academy Museum’s website and mobile app. The museum emphasizes that purchasing a general admission ticket does not guarantee entry to these programs due to limited seating capacity.

The Oscar Nominee Spotlights are part of the Academy Museum's broader mission to celebrate and preserve the art of cinema. This initiative is supported by various sponsors, including the Ruderman Family Foundation, which advocates for the representation of people with disabilities in the entertainment industry.

For those unable to attend in person, select events from the Oscar Nominee Spotlights will be available via livestream, making this prestigious series accessible to a global audience.

For more information on the Oscar Nominee Spotlights and to reserve tickets, visit the Academy Museum's official website.