Oscar 2025: A Hollywood Mash‑up with Masks and Movies
Next April 25th, the Oscars aren’t just a big night—they’re a full‑on blockbuster. With new producers on the scene, the old “speeches‑only” formula is getting a makeover that will not only let winners brag a bit longer but will also toss in masks as a headline‑grabber.
Why the Change?
The pandemic has forced Hollywood to think outside the box, and couple of fresh faces—Steven Soderbergh, Stacey Sher, and Jesse Collins—are renaming the ceremony as a movie in motion.
- Why Soderbergh is on board: He’ve just directed the viral‑hit Contagion and says “COVID has opened up a chance to do something new.”
- What they’ll change: Think of a stage set in the Art Deco Union Station (LA’s hottest spot), with presenters like Brad Pitt, Harrison Ford, and Halle Berry playing themselves—or a slightly tweaked version.
- Spending time on the mic: Oscars were once a 45‑second “grab‑and‑go” talk. Now, winners get to spin stories and spill personal gems.
- COVID‑slated protocol: They’re rolling out test‑based safety measures and consulting epidemiologists who researched the pandemic a decade ago.
Mask‑matters and Mystery
When asked if masks would be required, Soderbergh’s reply was as cryptic as a plot twist:
“Masks will play a very important role in the story. That topic is very central to the narrative.”
So expect some headgear to blend into the Oscar vibes—no Gucci hat, just a mask that packs a punch.
Remote Viewing: No Zoom, Just Satellite
Got travel restrictions? No worries. Nominees can join via satellite from anywhere, but the show won’t be hosting a live Zoom session. Feel the LA energy or catch your own local view.
Pre‑Show Pep Rally
The night kicks off with a 90‑minute pre‑show featuring five original musical contenders. Their tracks will have been recorded on the roof of the new Academy Museum and somewhere in Iceland, giving fans a sonic map from LA to the Arctic.
Overall Feel
Picture a cinematic setting, complete with celebrity antics and a touch of science detail, all stitched together into a fresh Oscar narrative. The Oscars are stepping into the pandemic‑era era while keeping the magic alive—bigger stage, longer speeches, and masks that tell a story of their own.
