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A Record-Breaking Year for Latinos at the Oscars
The 2025 Oscars are shaping up to be a landmark occasion for Latino representation, boasting a record number of nominations in acting, directing, and production categories. A highlight this year is the film Emilia Pérez, though Latino talent is shining in many of the nominations beyond this standout movie.
Latinos have long fought for recognition in Hollywood, with only nine acting nominations in the past two decades and just two wins: Rita Moreno and Ariana DeBose, both for playing Anita in West Side Story. For the first time, this year Latino talent has been recognized in three major acting categories at the same Oscars.
Emilia Pérez Takes the Spotlight
Under the direction of Jacques Audiard, Emilia Pérez is shaking things up with an astounding 13 nominations. They’re up for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Karla Sofía Gascón is in the running for Best Actress. Despite tough critiques, the film has struck a chord for its distinctive mix of drama and musical storytelling, exploring the journey of a Mexican drug lord undergoing a gender transition.
A Landmark Year for Latino Actors
Fernanda Torres – Nominee for Best Actress
Fernanda Torres’s performance in I’m Still Here is absolutely outstanding. Portraying Eunice Paiva, a woman who became a human rights activist following her husband’s disappearance during Brazil’s military dictatorship, Torres provides a raw and emotional performance. What makes this nomination even more meaningful is the legacy she carries forward. Her mother, Fernanda Montenegro, made history as the first Brazilian actress to be nominated for an Oscar. Now, Torres is following in her footsteps, bringing worldwide attention to a story deeply rooted in Brazilian history.
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Colman Domingo – Best Actor Nominee
Colman Domingo’s nomination for Sing Sing celebrates his ability to transform challenging roles into unforgettable performances. His portrayal of John “Divine G” Whitfield, based on a real-life figure, captures the complexity of life behind bars and the humanity within the prison walls. With Belizean and Guatemalan heritage, Domingo is a shining example of the growing presence of Latin talent in Hollywood. This nomination is his second in the Best Actor category after his work in Rustin, further solidifying his reputation as a powerhouse performer.
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Zoe Saldaña – Best Supporting Actress Nominee
Zoe Saldaña has been a staple in major Hollywood hits for quite some time, but her role in Emilia Pérez marks a new pivot in her career. As Rita, a lawyer representing a Mexican drug lord navigating a gender transition, Saldaña brings a powerful mix of strength, sensitivity, and humor. This challenging role not only won her a Golden Globe but now also her first Oscar nomination. She truly showcases her prowess in portraying complex, multi-dimensional characters in this film.
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Mónica Barbaro – Best Supporting Actress Nominee
Mónica Barbaro has been making a name for herself in Hollywood, climbing the ranks steadily. Her first Oscar nomination for ‘A Complete Unknown’ is a testament to her talent and hard work. Barbaro masterfully brings the legendary Joan Baez to life, capturing the singer’s relationship with Bob Dylan during the transformative 1960s. Her blend of elegance and intensity reflects the essence of Baez, showcasing a dramatic range that establishes her as a rising star. This recognition is particularly significant for someone with roots in Mexico, Nicaragua, and Italy, emphasizing the richness of her heritage.
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I’m Still Here – Nominee for Best Picture and Best International Feature
It’s not just the actors making history. Latino filmmakers and stories are also taking center stage this year. Walter Salles’s I’m Still Here is a strong contender in both the Best Picture and Best International Feature categories, bringing a Brazilian narrative to a global audience.
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