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As the 2025 Oscar season reaches its culmination, numerous Academy Awards voters have shared their ballots with Gold Derby, explaining their choices and the rationale behind them. We ensured the anonymity of these voters while providing their candid thoughts. With the voting now in the rearview mirror, we are able to divulge some of these previously confidential ballots. Here we present the picks of Voter 1.
BEST PICTURE: Emilia Pérez
It’s important to recognize why some may hesitate to champion Emilia Pérez, particularly given the controversial past social media behavior of its lead actor. However, it’s crucial to note that such issues should not overshadow the film’s artistic merit, which, in my opinion, surpasses that of its nine competitors. The creativity and unique flair of this film are undeniable, and it stands out for its originality. If the goal of the Academy Awards is to celebrate innovation, Emilia Pérez undoubtedly embodies that spirit like no other film this year. In my ranking, Anora follows in second place, with Conclave taking the third spot.
BEST DIRECTOR: Jacques Audiard (Emilia Pérez)
Initially, my choice for Best Director leaned towards Sean Baker for Anora, but I ultimately felt let down by its conclusion. Therefore, I shifted my vote to Jacques Audiard. His remarkable ability to navigate the complexities of directing this film—balancing conflicting genres like mob drama, musical, and psychological exploration—is commendable. The visual artistry present throughout the film is nothing short of stunning, showcasing Audiard’s expertise in creating a seamless viewing experience.
BEST ACTRESS: Mikey Madison (Anora)
Mikey Madison emerged as a remarkable talent in this film. Until now, she was unfamiliar to me, yet her performance was captivating and multifaceted. I was particularly struck by her ability to convey profound emotion, exemplified in a powerful scene where her character’s anguish comes to the surface in a memorable confrontation. It’s a challenging act to portray such raw feelings, yet she did it effortlessly.
BEST ACTOR: Colman Domingo (Sing Sing)
While I briefly considered Sebastian Stan for his impressive evolution throughout The Apprentice, I ultimately felt compelled to honor Colman Domingo. His commanding presence and exceptional performance made a significant impact. Domingo’s portrayal was not only dynamic but also revealed him to be a person worthy of accolades, both for his on-screen talent and his admirable character. I also found Clarence Maclin noteworthy, despite not securing a nomination; his role was a standout within the film.
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS: Zoe Saldaña (Emilia Pérez)
Zoe Saldaña truly shone in Emilia Pérez, delivering a performance that left a lasting impression. Her magnetic charisma exceeded that of her competition, particularly Karla Sofía Gascón. Saldaña managed to embody a fiery spirit that captivated audiences, making her portrayal unforgettable. While her role was clearly exceptional, if I had to name a runner-up, it would be Ariana Grande for her work in Wicked.
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR: Jeremy Strong (The Apprentice)
In my view, Jeremy Strong deserves recognition as a frontrunner in this category. He captured the chilling essence of Roy Cohn with such authenticity that it left a deep impression. After witnessing his remarkable performance, I became a devoted admirer. The caliber of acting in this category is impressive, with Edward Norton also delivering a stellar performance in A Complete Unknown. However, Strong’s portrayal stands out as particularly compelling.
BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY: Emilia Pérez
Although Emilia Pérez is based on a novel, its narrative feels refreshingly innovative. The screenplay showcases a fearless creativity that distinguishes it from prior adaptations. It’s essential to acknowledge the film’s distinctiveness, and I enthusiastically support it. The actions of one individual should not define the brilliance of the entire production.
BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY: September 5
While September 5 may not be the frontrunner, its screenplay is deserving of recognition. This underrated film encapsulates compelling drama and standout performances, presenting a riveting story. The depiction of newsroom dynamics, particularly in a pre-digital age context, adds a nostalgic layer that enriches the storytelling. It’s a unique period piece that reexamines familiar narratives in an exciting way.
Source
www.goldderby.com