‘One Battle After Another’ Leads 2025 Gotham Awards Nominations with Six Nods
The Gotham Awards committee announced the nominations for its 2025 ceremony on Tuesday, highlighting Paul Thomas Anderson’s high‑budget action epic “One Battle After Another” as the most‑nominated film with six nods. The slate also includes a nomination for comedian‑actor Adam Sandler in the supporting category, marking a notable crossover between mainstream comedy and the festival’s traditionally indie‑focused roster.
The six nominations for Anderson’s film cover Best Feature, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Editing, and Best Original Score. Sandler’s nod comes for his performance in the drama “Midnight Harbor,” a role that critics have praised for its depth beyond his typical comedic work. Other highlighted entries include a documentary on climate activism and a debut feature from a rising female director.
Founded in 1991, the Gotham Awards have become a key barometer for independent cinema, often foreshadowing Oscar contenders. The six‑nominee record set by “One Battle After Another” surpasses the previous high of five nominations, reflecting the growing scale of genre‑blending projects that straddle both commercial and artistic ambitions.
Organizers said the nominations illustrate the evolving landscape of independent filmmaking, where larger budgets are increasingly allocated to genre pieces that retain a distinct creative voice. Industry analysts noted that the inclusion of a high‑profile star such as Sandler could broaden the awards’ audience while maintaining its commitment to artistic merit. Several film scholars commented that the diversity of categories this year underscores the Gotham’s role in championing a wide range of storytelling forms.
The 2025 Gotham Awards ceremony is scheduled for early December in New York City, where the nominees will be gathered for screenings and panels ahead of the final awards night. Observers will watch to see whether Anderson’s sweeping nominations translate into wins, and how Sandler’s recognition might influence future casting decisions for actors traditionally associated with comedy.
