Oscar 2025 Predictions: Which Films Will Shine in Editing, Cinematography, Costume, and Production Design?

Despite being a top contender for Best Picture, The Brutalist faces challenges in key technical categories leading up to the 2025 Oscars. The film has struggled with precursor nominations in film editing, missing out on recognition from the American Cinema Editors (ACE) and BAFTA. It only received a nod from the Critics Choice Awards, placing it below competitors like Anora, Conclave, and Dune: Part Two.

Film Editing

The film editing branch is currently voting, and while Challengers seems vulnerable, its dynamic sports editing might earn it respect. The history of snubs for editors, as seen with Roma in 2018, raises questions about Sean Baker's risk as he edits his own film.

Costume Design looks bleak for The Brutalist, which has not garnered any nominations from BAFTA, Critics Choice, or the Costume Designers Guild. Competitors like Conclave, A Complete Unknown, and Wicked dominate this category.

Cinematography

However, The Brutalist excels in Cinematography and Production Design. The film's use of VistaVision in stunning 70mm has received acclaim, and it stands strong alongside Conclave and Nosferatu in these categories. Past trends suggest that sequels of Oscar-winning films often face snubs, which could affect Dune: Part Two.

Costume Design Predictions

1. Wicked Part I (Universal Pictures) - Paul Tazewell
2. Conclave (Focus Features) - Lisy Christi
3. Nosferatu (Focus Features) - Linda Muir
4. Gladiator II (Paramount Pictures) - Janty Yates
5. A Complete Unknown (Searchlight Pictures) - Ariane Phillips

Production Design Predictions

1. Wicked Part I (Universal Pictures) - Nathan Crowley
2. The Brutalist (A24) - Judy Becker
3. Conclave (Focus Features) - Suzie Davies
4. Nosferatu (Focus Features) - Craig Lathrop
5. Dune: Part Two (Warner Bros) - Patrice Vermette

Oscar nominations will be announced on January 23. Here are the final predictions for Film Editing, Cinematography, Costume Design, and Production Design.