Academy Awards 2025: What Films Are Dark Horses in the Best Picture Race?
Academy Awards 2025: What Films Are Dark Horses in the Best Picture Race?
Some movies seem almost a shoo-in for a Best Picture nomination on January 23, 2025, such as Anora, The Brutalist, Emilia Perez, and Conclave. Also, big blockbusters like Wicked and Dune: Part Two are strong contenders for a nomination.
However, the Academy Awards is known for Oscar shocks and snubs, meaning it is hard to predict the films that will receive a Best Picture nomination this year.
While the above flicks are predicted to earn a nomination, the Academy could include one or more surprising nominees in the category. Read on to learn about the dark horses in the Best Picture race this year.
1xBet’s Odds at 11 predict a 9.1% chance that Nickel Boys will win Best Picture at the Academy Awards 2025 ::: Discover the current Odds now HERE
Nickel Boys
Nickel Boys might not be the strongest contender for Best Picture, but the historical drama could be a surprise Best Picture pick this year.
The film, based on Colson Whitehead’s 2019 novel The Nickel Boys, earned much critical acclaim following its release.
Also, it has won various industry-respected awards, such as Best Film at the Toronto Film Critics Association and Best Picture at the National Society of Film Critics.
A Real Pain
A Real Pain has already proven it has what it takes to win prestigious awards, as it was named one of the top ten films of 2024 by the National Board of Review and the American Film Institute.
The comedy-drama was written, directed, and produced by Jesse Eisenberg, who stars in the movie alongside Kieran Culkin, with the latter now a clear frontrunner to win Best Supporting Actor at the Oscars this year.
Also, the movie has received various nominations at many respected award ceremonies, including the Satellite Awards, Independent Spirit Awards, Gotham Awards, and the Critics’ Choice Awards.
What’s more, it has earned a score of 96% on Rotten Tomatoes, meaning it has received glowing reviews from top movie critics, with some tipping the film for Oscar glory.
The Substance
The Substance has become one of the most talked about movies of the year for its dark story, exceptional performances, and powerful message.
While the plot and production might divide opinion, the film is a dark horse in the Best Picture race, as many have praised its maximalist direction and unique storytelling.
Also, the movie has enjoyed success at various award shows recently. For instance, it received five nominations at the 82nd Golden Globes, which included Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.
Plus, Demi Moore won the award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, and she could earn an Oscar nod for Best Actress.
A Different Man
Many were shocked when A Different Man won Best Feature Film at the 34th Gotham Awards, proving the flick shouldn’t be underestimated in the Best Picture race this year.
The audience was stunned when the doppelgänger flick won the award over Sean Baker’s Anora.
Not to mention, the psychological thriller, which was written and directed by Aaron Schimberg, was named one of the Top Ten Independent Films by the National Board of Review in 2024.
Sebastian Stan, who plays the leading role of Edwards, has won multiple awards for his exceptional performance, too.
For instance, he won the Silver Bear for Best Leading Performance at the Berlin International Film Festival and Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy at the Golden Globe Awards.
If you believe A Different Man will win Best Picture at the Academy Awards 2025, you could win $7000 by betting $100 at 1xBet if it happens.
