This year’s Oscars delivered a surprise upset in the Best Actress category, with 25-year-old Mikey Madison taking home the award for her role in Anora. While Madison’s win was widely seen as a triumph for young and diverse talent, some critics have expressed outrage over the loss of Demi Moore, who played a complex and powerful performance in The Substance.
Moore had been favored to win, thanks in part to her heartfelt Golden Globes acceptance speech and her reputation as a highly respected actress. However, the Academy’s decision has sparked accusations of misogyny and ageism. Some critics have suggested that Madison won due to her youth and beauty, implying that Moore was somehow less deserving because of her age.
This line of thinking is fundamentally sexist and ignores the hard work and dedication that Madison brought to her role in Anora. The film’s nuanced exploration of vulnerability, comedy, and tragedy was a complex and powerful achievement that required careful crafting and performance. Unlike Moore, who played a single scene with limited dialogue, Madison delivered a rich and multifaceted performance that earned her the Oscar.
Moreover, to suggest that Moore’s loss was somehow tied to her physical appearance is not only unfair but also damaging. Moore is an accomplished actress and model who has dedicated herself to powerful roles throughout her career. To imply that she lost due to her looks is to underestimate her talent and diminish her achievements.
The Substance explored themes of feminism, self-loathing, and societal pressure, making it a complex and thought-provoking film. By reducing Madison’s win to the grounds of youth and beauty, critics are ignoring the substance (pun intended) of Moore’s performance and undermining the progress made in recognizing diverse talent.
Ultimately, the Academy’s decision reflects a shift towards greater representation and diversity in the industry. While some critics may still harbor biases against older actresses or those perceived as less conventionally attractive, it is essential to recognize that these perspectives are not representative of a broader cultural consensus.
Source: https://slate.com/culture/2025/03/oscars-2025-anora-mikey-madison-demi-moore-substance.html