Inside Look: 2025 Oscar Nominees for Best Supporting Actor

Experience exclusive scenes from the 2025 Oscar-nominated supporting actor performances. Tune in for insightful interviews with the talented nominees. The prestigious awards ceremony will be held on March 2.

Yura Borisov in "Anora"

In "Anora," both a hilarious and touching tale unfolds with Anora, a sex worker from Brooklyn, who finds herself swept off her feet by the whimsical scion of Russian oligarchs. However, these influential figures are not easily trifled with, nor are their enforcers.

Director Sean Baker eschews the typical mafia stereotypes by crafting a nuanced narrative. Yura Borisov's Igor, tasked with restraining Anora, becomes captivated by her determination. Borisov expertly portrays Igor's transformation from a menacing figure to an empathetic ally.

Borisov's portrayal relies heavily on non-verbal cues, showcasing his character as a keen observer drawn to Anora’s resolve. Their unspoken connection subtly evolves throughout the film, adding emotional depth to their story.

Reflecting on his character, Borisov emphasizes the power of empathy and human connection, suggesting that bridging cultural and personal divides is both challenging and rewarding—a sentiment he hopes resonates with viewers.

Kieran Culkin in "A Real Pain"

Recognized for his role in "Succession," Kieran Culkin takes on a new challenge in "A Real Pain," a film directed by Jesse Eisenberg. Culkin plays Benji, a misguided yet endearing character navigating a soul-searching trip to Poland.

This reflective journey is intertwined with his family's past as Benji awkwardly navigates a Holocaust heritage tour. Culkin taps into both the humor and poignancy of Benji's experiences in this cross-cultural exploration.

Jesse Eisenberg, both writer and director, was drawn to Culkin's authentic performance, capturing the charm and chaos embodied by his character. Their collaboration brings an effortless familiarity to the screen, enhancing the narrative's impact.

Edward Norton in "A Complete Unknown"

Esteemed actor Edward Norton reincarnates Pete Seeger, a folk legend, in the biographical film "A Complete Unknown." Norton's portrayal delves into Seeger's musical influence and mentoring relationship with Bob Dylan, amidst a politically charged era.

Overcoming the challenges of playing a music icon, Norton learned to play the banjo authentically. His dedication brings a layer of credibility to the film, which aims to highlight the transformative power of art and activism.

Norton sees the film as a conduit to reignite public interest in artists as catalysts for social change, urging audiences to revisit the impact of historical figures who fought for cultural and social justice.

Guy Pearce in "The Brutalist"

In "The Brutalist," Guy Pearce plays industrialist Harrison Lee Van Buren, who engages architect László Tóth, portrayed by Adrien Brody, to design a monumental structure. The movie explores power dynamics and personal insecurities.

Pearce brilliantly captures his character's complex nature—overbearing yet vulnerable, controlling yet expressively insecure. Through their interactions, Van Buren wrestles with internal conflicts while attempting to assert dominance over Tóth's artistry.

Pearce's nuanced interpretation highlights human fragility and the performative aspects of power, serving as a mirror to our own lives' intricate dance between authority and vulnerability.

Jeremy Strong in "The Apprentice"

Jeremy Strong's riveting portrayal of Roy Cohn in "The Apprentice" examines the mentor-mentee dynamics between Cohn and Donald Trump. The film scrutinizes the formation of Trump’s controversial ethos.

Set against the backdrop of New York City during the pivotal 1970s and '80s, Strong's performance is at once mesmerizing and chilling, spotlighting the manipulative tactics that shaped a future leader.

Despite political pushback, the film stands as a critical reflection on history, urging audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about power, politics, and personal legacy.