Ahead of the Oscars, the Associated Press breaks from tradition with alternative awards that celebrate the quirky, heartfelt, and overlooked moments in 2025’s best films, proving that movie magic often hides in plain sight.
As the film industry gears up for the 97th Academy Awards, the Associated Press is challenging the status quo with its own set of honors that go beyond Best Picture and Best Actor. Curated by AP Film Writers Lindsey Bahr and Jake Coyle, these awards spotlight the elements that make cinema unforgettable—from a scene-stealing cat to a prop so absurd it becomes iconic.
This isn’t just a whimsical list; it’s a necessary correction to an awards season that often narrows the year’s cinematic achievements to a handful of frontrunners. By highlighting categories like “Best cat” and “Funniest prop,” the AP reminds us that the essence of film lies in its details—the small performances, creative risks, and unexpected joys that resonate with audiences long after the credits roll.
Consider the “Best cat” award, given to the tiny gray tabby named Olga in “Sorry, Baby.” Played by Noochie, Olga isn’t just a pet; she’s a symbol of comfort in a film that explores vulnerability and connection. As the AP notes, actress Eva Victor felt compelled to clarify that nothing bad happens to Olga—a testament to how much audiences care about these on-screen companions [Associated Press].
Then there’s the “Funniest prop” for the goldfish in “Splitsville.” In a scene where characters fight over a woman, a half-dozen water-filled bags of fake goldfish become the center of a roller coaster stunt that is “silly, dumb, and works” [Associated Press]. It’s a moment of physical comedy that showcases the film’s inventiveness.
These awards are more than just fun; they represent a deeper truth about film appreciation. The Oscars have their place, but they often exclude genres like horror, comedy, or independent films that thrive on creativity over spectacle. The AP’s list includes “One of Them Days,” a theatrical studio comedy that revives a genre thought extinct, with Keke Palmer delivering a “sensational dynamo” performance [Associated Press].
Other notable honors include “Most ecstatic religious ceremony” for the Shaker dances in “The Testament of Ann Lee,” “Best opening” for the unforgettable Missy Elliott-inspired scene in “On Becoming a Guinea Fowl,” and “Best use of a star” for Gwyneth Paltrow in “Marty Supreme.” Each award highlights a specific achievement that might be ignored in mainstream discourse.
For fans, this list is a treasure map. It validates the emotional connections they feel to these moments—whether it’s the devastation of a costume in “Hedda” or the psychedelic hilarity of a Subway-themed trip in “Friendship.” These are the elements that spark fan theories, memes, and endless debates on social media. While the Oscars debate eligibility rules, the AP celebrates what makes movies beloved.
Moreover, this approach underscores the importance of critics and outlets that look beyond the consensus. In an era of algorithm-driven content, such curated lists remind us that film criticism should be diverse and inclusive of all forms of storytelling. It’s a call to recognize the full spectrum of cinematic art, from high drama to low comedy.
As the Oscars approach, the AP’s awards serve as a counter-narrative, urging us to remember the films that didn’t make the shortlists but left an indelible mark. Whether it’s the goldfish in “Splitsville” or the gold of “No Other Choice‘s” elevator pitch, these are the stories that define a movie year beyond the trophies.
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