The annual Academy Awards nominations invariably spark debate, with some films lauded and others inexplicably overlooked. The 2025 nominations were no exception, with well-deserved recognition for films like Emilia Pérez, The Brutalist, Anora, I’m Still Here, and The Substance. However, several noteworthy films were omitted, raising questions about the Academy’s selection process. This article highlights ten such films, suggesting alternative nominees in their respective categories, not to diminish the achievements of the selected films, but to champion those unjustly ignored. The overarching question remains: are these omissions merely a matter of preference or do they reveal deeper biases within the Academy?
Kneecap, a vibrant and insightful Irish-language music biopic, was surprisingly snubbed in the Best International Feature and Best Original Song categories. Its critical acclaim and box office success in Ireland made its omission all the more baffling. The film skillfully blends humor with a poignant exploration of language and cultural preservation, making it a significant cultural achievement. All We Imagine As Light, an Indian film exploring the interconnected lives of three women, was another notable omission. Its unique narrative style, blending realism with surreal elements, creates a powerful and moving experience. The film’s exploration of female friendship and belonging resonated with audiences, making its absence from the Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay categories a significant oversight. The Devil’s Bath, a chilling psychological drama exploring a dark chapter of European history, was also overlooked. Its unflinching portrayal of a disturbing historical practice may have been too challenging for the Academy’s mainstream sensibilities, but its artistic merit and thematic depth warrant recognition.
Saoirse Ronan’s powerful performance in The Outrun as a recovering addict was surprisingly absent from the Best Actress category. While the category was undoubtedly competitive, Ronan’s nuanced and emotionally resonant portrayal deserved consideration. The Bibi Files, a documentary exposing alleged corruption by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, was another significant omission. Its brave and timely investigation of political power and its impact on the Middle East raised crucial questions, making its absence from the Best Documentary category a disappointment. Small Things Like These, a sensitive adaptation of Claire Keegan’s novella about the Magdalene Laundries in Ireland, was overlooked in the Best Supporting Actress and Best Adapted Screenplay categories. Emily Watson’s understated yet powerful performance and Enda Walsh’s nuanced screenplay deserved recognition for their contribution to this poignant historical drama.
Grand Tour, a Portuguese film exploring themes of commitment and longing through a continent-spanning journey, was another overlooked gem. Its innovative blend of comedy and documentary elements created a dreamlike and captivating narrative, making its absence from the Best International Feature category a missed opportunity. Bird, a coming-of-age fairy tale blending social and magical realism, was overlooked in the Best Director and Best Cinematography categories. Andrea Arnold’s empathetic direction and Robbie Ryan’s evocative cinematography created a unique and emotionally resonant film that deserved recognition. Daniel Craig’s captivating performance as a lovesick drug addict in Queer, a surreal adaptation of William S. Burroughs’ novel, was shockingly ignored in the Best Actor category. Craig’s departure from his typical roles showcased his versatility and talent, making his omission a significant oversight. Dahomey, a docu-fiction essay exploring the return of stolen artifacts to Benin, was overlooked in the Best Documentary category. Its examination of colonialism and historical justice offered a timely and important perspective.
Finally, The Seed of the Sacred Fig, a powerful Iranian political thriller nominated for Best International Feature, deserved consideration for Best Picture. Its exploration of complex social and political issues, coupled with its artistic merit, made it a strong contender. These omissions raise questions about the Academy’s selection process and its potential biases. While the nominated films undoubtedly hold merit, the absence of these ten films suggests a need for greater diversity and inclusivity in the Academy’s considerations. These films represent a rich tapestry of storytelling, tackling complex themes and showcasing exceptional talent both in front of and behind the camera. Their absence from the Oscars shortlist is a loss not only for the filmmakers but also for audiences who miss out on experiencing these compelling and thought-provoking works. The Academy’s continued commitment to recognizing excellence in filmmaking should encompass a wider range of perspectives and artistic styles, ensuring that deserving films, regardless of their origin or subject matter, receive the recognition they deserve.
