Hollywood is abuzz with anticipation as the 97th Oscars approach, promising a night filled with glitz, glamour, and unforgettable moments. The ceremony is set to take place at the illustrious Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, starting at 16:00 PT, 19:00 ET, and midnight GMT. This year's frontrunner for most nominations is the Spanish-language musical "Emilia Pérez," which garnered a staggering 13 nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Karla Sofía Gascón.

Despite the accolades, controversy looms over Gascón due to her past social media posts. Other contenders in the race include "The Brutalist," "Wicked," and the drama "Conclave," among others, all eager to claim the coveted Best Picture award. Renowned US comedian Conan O'Brien will host the event, replacing Jimmy Kimmel, which adds an extra layer of excitement to the evening.

This Oscars season has not been devoid of surprises. In the best actress category, Demi Moore's nomination for her role in "The Substance" has sparked discussions, especially after Mikey Madison's unexpected win at the BAFTAs. Meanwhile, the Best Actor competition heightens with Adrian Brody and Timothée Chalamet vying for the top honors.

As the ceremony progresses, tributes will likely acknowledge the devastating wildfires in LA, which impacted countless lives in the city. The organizers have confirmed that support mechanisms will be highlighted throughout the night.

The show will also feature musical performances, with Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande set to showcase a medley from “Wicked.” The Oscars will broadcast live on ABC in the US and across numerous global territories, ensuring that cinema lovers worldwide can tune in to witness a celebration of the artistry and talent that define this year's film industry.

From unveiling touching stories of triumph to addressing social issues, the 97th Oscars promise to be a thrilling event, encapsulating the highs and lows of the cinematic world in 2025.