Amidst the anticipation of the 97th Oscars, the spotlight falls on the contenders vying for the Best Original Score. This year, the competition is fierce, with women composers making an impressive impact in a field traditionally dominated by their male counterparts.
This year’s race for the Best Original Score is stirring excitement with its diverse lineup. In a notable shift, the shortlist for this category has expanded from 15 to 20, offering a broader canvas for contenders. Among those creating a buzz are five women composers whose work has captured attention. Chanda Dancy with “Blink Twice,” Camille from “Emilia Pérez,” Tamar-kali’s “The Fire Inside,” Andrea Datzman’s contribution to “Inside Out 2,” and Amelia Warner with “Young Woman and the Sea” form a powerful group challenging the norm. Their presence underscores a significant change in the landscape, where female voices are increasingly being recognized.
Meanwhile, Cristobal Tapia de Veer rides the wave of his recent success from “The White Lotus” with his work on “Babygirl.” Known for its unsettling, experimental sound, “Babygirl” is a standout in the nominations. Similarly, Benjamin Wallfisch showcases masterful tension with his score for “Alien: Romulus,” raising the bar for suspenseful soundscapes.
The eligibility pool this year rests at 145 contenders, making the decision to narrow it down to just 20 a challenging task for the Academy. However, the most surprises in the lineup come not from who made it, but from those who didn’t. Esteemed composers like Alan Silvestri with “Here,” Alexandre Desplat and his work on “The Piano Lesson,” and Jon Batiste’s “Saturday Night” found themselves unexpectedly excluded. Even indie favorites such as “Nickel Boys” and “The Substance” were absent from the list, leaving many to wonder about the dynamics at play in this year’s selections.
As the anticipation builds towards March 2, when the 97th Oscars will finally unveil the winners, the conversation continues to evolve. With legendary names like Stephen Sondheim and John Powell in the mix, speculation runs high regarding potential breakthroughs. The question remains: can a beloved production like “Wicked” secure a coveted spot among the finalists?
The Best Original Score category at the 2025 Oscars promises not only stiff competition but also a celebration of diversity and innovation. With a lineup that challenges traditional norms, this year’s nominations are setting new standards in the world of film music. As the countdown to the Oscars continues, the excitement around these predictions is palpable.
Source: Yahoo