Los Angeles' Dolby Theatre played host to Hollywood’s biggest night as the 97th Academy Awards kicked off in grand fashion. With Emilia Pérez leading the nominations with 13 nods, followed closely by Wicked and The Brutalist with 10 each, anticipation was high for a night full of surprises.
The ceremony opened with a powerful musical moment as Wicked star Ariana Grande performed a stirring rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow, following a visual tribute to the city of Los Angeles. But as the night unfolded, it was Anora that emerged as the evening’s biggest winner, sweeping five Academy Awards, including the coveted Best Picture prize.