The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is set to announce its shortlists for the 2025 Oscars on December 17, marking a notable change with an increase in the number of shortlisted scores from 15 to 20. However, the shortlist for the best song category will remain at 15 entries.
Voting for the nominations will take place from January 8 to January 12, with the official announcement of nominations scheduled for January 17. The final voting phase will occur between February 11 and February 18, leading up to the prestigious award ceremony on March 2.
Highlighting some of the contenders for best original song, several notable tracks and their creators are in the mix. “Forbidden Road,” co-written by Sacha Skarbek, Freddy Wexler, and Robbie Williams, is featured in the film “Better Man,” which creatively portrays Williams as a chimpanzee using motion capture technology.
Another strong contender, “Winter Coat,” is a collaboration between Nicolas Britell and Steve McQueen, with previous nominee Taura Stinson also on board, and if nominated, she could tie the record for most nods by a Black woman in this category. Additionally, Elton John, a two-time Oscar winner, brings “Never Too Late” from “Elton John: Never Too Late” into the spotlight, continuing his legacy in the music industry.
Other notable mentions include “El Mal” and “Mi Camino,” both from the film “Emilia Pérez,” showcasing the duo of Clément Ducol and Camille Dalmais. “Beautiful That Way” by Miley Cyrus and “Beyond” by Barlow & Bear also showcase the diverse talent in the music industry vying for recognition.
In the original score category, notable composers such as Benjamin Wallfisch, Hans Zimmer, and A.R. Rahman are among those anticipated to receive nominations. Rahman, known for his iconic score in “Slumdog Millionaire,” is back in the mix with “The Goat Life.”
With an exciting mix of established talents and emerging artists, this year’s Oscar nominations promise to showcase a vibrant array of musical creativity. The upcoming Oscars could very well serve as a platform to celebrate a diverse range of voices in music, bringing fresh perspectives to the cinema scene.
In conclusion, the changes to the shortlist process and the variety of nominees indicate a progressive step towards inclusivity and recognition of talent within the film music landscape. As the nominations approach, anticipation is building for what could be a memorable ceremony for artists and audiences alike.