The 2025 Gotham Film Awards delivered an unforgettable evening filled with milestone victories, heartfelt speeches, and a celebration of global cinema. Paul Thomas Anderson’s critically acclaimed drama One Battle After Another, led by Leonardo DiCaprio, emerged as the night’s standout winner, securing the prestigious Best Feature award. Despite receiving six nominations, the film ultimately earned just one trophy—but it was the most coveted one of the ceremony.
During his acceptance speech, Anderson expressed genuine surprise at the win, humorously admitting he feared something had gone wrong as his film continued to miss out in other categories. The date of the ceremony held special meaning for him, as he honored partner Maya Rudolph by acknowledging the anniversary of their relationship, calling her the person who “made me a better filmmaker.”
The evening also belonged to renowned Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi, whose powerful feature It Was Just an Accident swept all three of its nominated categories—Best International Feature, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Director. His victories came just hours after he was sentenced in absentia to a year in prison in Iran, making the emotional depth of his speech even more profound. Panahi dedicated his wins to independent filmmakers around the world, reflecting on the personal and political challenges he continues to face and affirming his commitment to storytelling.
Breakthrough talents were also celebrated. My Father’s Shadow continued its momentum, securing awards for Breakthrough Director Akinola Davies Jr. and Outstanding Lead Performance for Sopé Dìrísù, who prevailed over a lineup of acclaimed actors including Jennifer Lawrence, Ethan Hawke, and Amanda Seyfried. Wunmi Mosaku took home Outstanding Supporting Performance for Sinners, with director Ryan Coogler accepting on her behalf. Rising star Abou Sangaré earned the Breakthrough Performer award for his compelling work in Souleymane’s Story.
The ceremony further honored influential figures through its special tribute recognitions, celebrating artistry and innovation across the entertainment industry. These included a Director Tribute for Noah Baumbach, an Ensemble Tribute for the cast of Sinners, and a Spotlight Tribute for Tessa Thompson for Hedda. Additional honors acknowledged the contributions of Guillermo del Toro, Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi, Kate Hudson, Hugh Jackman, Julia Roberts, Luca Guadagnino, Jeremy Allen White, and Scott Cooper, highlighting their impact through groundbreaking performances and creative achievements.
Full List of Competitive Winners
• Best Feature – One Battle After Another
• Best International Feature – It Was Just an Accident
• Best Documentary Feature – My Undesirable Friends: Part I, Last Air in Moscow
• Best Director – Jafar Panahi (It Was Just an Accident)
• Breakthrough Director – Akinola Davies Jr. (My Father’s Shadow)
• Best Original Screenplay – Jafar Panahi (It Was Just an Accident)
• Best Adapted Screenplay – Harry Lighton (Pillion)
• Outstanding Lead Performance – Sopé Dìrísù (My Father’s Shadow)
• Outstanding Supporting Performance – Wunmi Mosaku (Sinners)
• Breakthrough Performer – Abou Sangaré (Souleymane’s Story)
