Oscars 2025: A Monumental Night for Independent Filmmaking

Last night, independent filmmaking took center stage at the Oscars. It was a powerful reminder that independent voices—no matter their size—can rise. Watching this year’s Oscars wasn’t just inspiring; it validated that bold, daring stories have space in an industry that often plays it safe.

Before we dive in, I have to mention the opening. Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivos’ performance set the tone, but it was Erivo’s rendition of Home from The Wiz that had me in tears, literally blubbering tears. Then to watch Ariana Grande watch Cynthia do what Cynthia does, nothing but pure love and admiration.

Then for them to sing Defying Gravity from Wicked… how dare they. The raw, emotional power of that moment reminded me why we do what we do—film, art in general, has the power to move us in ways nothing else can. To open the show with that while acknowledging the devastating LA fires was tasteful and moving.

I’ll be honest—I didn’t see most of the films nominated this year. But every Oscars, there’s one speech or moment that reminds me why I’m doing what I do. It brings me back to why it all matters. I may not be where they are yet, but my 10-year-old self still believes it’s possible. Over the years, there’s always one moment that sticks with me— Matthew McConaughey’s 2014 speech still shapes my mindset not just in my work but in life, and Emma Stone’s win for Poor Things last year reminded me that storytelling is about authenticity and truth.

One moment that stuck with me from last night was from The Only Girl in the Orchestra’s winner. She said, “Art gives order and meaning to the chaos we are living through.” That line captured the essence of the night—how art and storytelling ground us in uncertain times. Art not only provides an escape but is a testament to the times we live through, as it always has been.

For years, the Oscars have celebrated vision and talent, but the same faces and groups winning year after year have been discouraging. Last night was different. The Oscars gave space for fresh voices, new stories. Nowhere was this more evident than with Anora. Sean Baker’s film claimed 5 out of 6 Oscars it was nominated for, including Best Director—an undeniable milestone for independent filmmakers.

Anora’s success is more than just a win for the film—it’s a moment that shows what’s possible when independent filmmakers are given a platform. It’s a call to action for future filmmakers, proving that with dedication, creativity, and the right opportunities, independent voices can compete on the highest stage. This victory proves that independent filmmaking can break through the barriers that have often kept it on the sidelines. However, the door is not open wide just yet.

In his acceptance speech, Sean Baker spoke about something crucial—the need to bring people back into theaters. The communal experience of watching a film with an audience is fading. If we lose that, we risk losing what makes cinema unique.

The Oscars also continued its troubling lack of diversity in behind-the-scenes roles, with producers, directors, screenwriters, and editors still overwhelmingly white. While there were strides in on-screen diversity, true inclusivity means empowering voices across every role in filmmaking. But there were moments of progress last night. Karla Sofía Gascón made history as the first openly transgender performer nominated for an acting category for Emilia Pérez. Cynthia Erivo earned a nomination for Wicked, making her the first Black British actress to receive multiple acting nominations. Zoe Saldaña’s win for Emilia Pérez was a breakthrough for people of color in mainstream cinema. We must not let these victories be the endpoint, the door has only been cracked open, Hollywood has a long way to go.

True diversity isn’t just about representation; it’s about empowering all voices to thrive in an industry that should reflect the world we live in. It’s up to us—filmmakers, creators, and audiences—to make sure these changes aren’t just moments, but the beginning of a lasting shift.  The work must continue. We must keep pushing forward, creating, and making space for the voices that still need to be heard.

So keep writing, creating, and pushing forward. Your story deserves to be told, and you deserve to take up space—whether you're invited in or creating it for yourself.