The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is set to reveal its Academy Award shortlists on December 17, showcasing 20 shortlisted scores—up from 15 in past years. The shortlist for the best original song category will remain at 15 entries. Following this announcement, nominations will be determined between January 8-12, with the final nominations revealed on January 17. The Oscars ceremony will take place on March 2, 2025.
Among the films in contention for Best Original Song are “Forbidden Road,” featuring contributions from past Grammy nominees including Robbie Williams, and “Winter Coat,” co-written by Nicholas Britell, who has multiple nominations for best original score. Other notable contenders include Elton John’s “Never Too Late,” which marks a potential new accolade for him, and “Mi Camino,” showcasing two entries from the same film, “Emilia Pérez.”
In the Best Original Score category, the selections include Benjamin Wallfisch’s work for “Alien: Romulus,” Hans Zimmer with “Blitz,” and Harry Gregson-Williams for “Gladiator II.” Both Wallfisch and Gregson-Williams are vying for their first Oscar nominations in this category. Notably, Andrea Datzman makes history as the first woman to score a Pixar feature film with “Inside Out 2,” reflecting a significant shift toward greater representation in the industry.
As the competition heats up, discussion around these films provides a glimpse into the vibrant musical landscape of cinema, highlighting the talent of both seasoned artists and emerging voices. This year’s Oscars promise to celebrate a diverse array of talent, and audiences can look forward to seeing how these films are recognized in the upcoming awards.
In a hopeful light, the increase in shortlisted scores demonstrates the Academy’s commitment to highlighting the importance of music in film, paving the way for more diverse narratives and talents in the industry. Overall, this year’s Oscars could be a strong platform for underrepresented voices, celebrating the rich tapestry of storytelling through music.