‘Stick-it-to-the-man sentiment’: Oscar-nominated films compete to bait Donald Trump

Almost all the shortlisted movies this year can be seen as a critique of the incoming president. Accident or design?

Oscars nominations 2025: the full list

When reacting to Oscar nominations, actors traditionally err on the side of hyperbole. This year was no exception. “I don’t know if I’m quite in my body,” said Demi Moore, on learning she was shortlisted for The Substance. “I looked at my phone and fell on the floor,” said Monica Barbaro, who plays Joan Baez in A Complete Unknown. “I actually haven’t stopped sobbing,” offered Ariana (Wicked) Grande.

Karla Sofía Gascón, however, bucked the trend. The first out trans actor ever nominated for an Oscar took the opportunity to address the executive order signed by Donald Trump earlier this week, restricting US government recognition to only biological sex.

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