Music shines at Oscars 2025: Emilia Perez and The Brutalist win the statuette
The 97th edition of the Oscar Awards has left unforgettable moments in the history of cinema, but also in music. With a Best Original Song category full of big names and soundtracks that have marked the year, the gala at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles once again demonstrated that music is a fundamental pillar in film narrative.
In this edition, the great protagonist was Emilia Pérez, who won the award for Best Original Song, while The Brutalist won the statuette for Best Original Soundtrack.
“El Mal”, Best Original Song
The night’s big winner in the music category was El Mal, the theme song for the film Emilia Perez, composed by Clément Ducol and Camille. The song, which had already been recognized with the Golden Globe, won in a highly competitive category.
Camille, in her acceptance speech, thanked the entire team and vindicated the power of music in film:
“Music has the power to give voice to the voiceless, to move and to bring justice. This award is for all those who believe in art as a tool for change.”
The award ceremony had an iconic moment when Mick Jagger took the stage as presenter, after replacing Bob Dylan, who had been the first choice but decided to decline the invitation with a resounding, “Look for someone younger.” Jagger, with a chuckle, replied, “I’m younger, I’ll do it!”
Songs nominated in the category:
- “El Mal” – Emilia Perez (WINNER)
- “My Way” – Emilia Perez
- “Never Too Late” – Elton John: Never Too Late
- “The Journey” – The Six Triple Eight
- “Like a Bird” – Sing Sing
Best Original Score: The Brutalist
In the Best Original Score category, the award went to Daniel Blumberg for his work on The Brutalist. This was his first Oscar nomination and win, making it a milestone in his career.
Blumberg, visibly moved, emphasized the importance of music in the construction of cinematographic identity:
“The soundtrack not only complements the story, but also expands it. Sometimes, the notes say more than the dialogue.”
With an experimental and risky proposal, the music of The Brutalist managed to prevail against renowned competitors such as Volker Bertelmann and John Powell.
Nominated for Best Original Score:
- Daniel Blumberg – The Brutalist (WINNER)
- Volker Bertelmann – Conclave
- Clément Ducol and Camille – Emilia Perez
- John Powell and Stephen Schwartz – Wicked
- Kris Bowers – The Wild Robot
Performances at the gala: an unexpected twist
This year, the Academy decided to forego live performances of the nominated songs, opting instead for a series of reflections by the songwriters on their creative process. However, the gala did feature special performances by artists such as Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Doja Cat, Lisa from BLACKPINK and Queen Latifah, who provided memorable musical moments.
Conclusion: music, the undisputed protagonist
The Oscars 2025 have once again demonstrated that music in film is more than an accompaniment; it is another character within the narrative. From Emilia Perez to The Brutalist, through Mick Jagger’s tribute and Camille’s vindication, this edition has been a clear example of how music continues to make a difference on the big screen.
