As the film festival circuit heats up and Academy members prepare to evaluate various contenders, it’s time to unveil our winner predictions. And in the spirit of celebrating global cinema, Koktail invites you to give a shoutout to some of Asian cinema on this occasion—reflecting on its past triumphs while embracing the bright future ahead.

This Palme d'Or winner from Sean Baker has quickly emerged as a frontrunner for Best Picture at the Oscars. The film has been widely praised for its exploration of love and identity through the story of a young sex worker from Brooklyn who marries into an oligarchic family. It powerfully amplifies the often-silenced voices of women sex workers, cleverly framing their experiences as a modern-day fairytale. Baker’s lens, neither sentimental nor voyeuristic, brings these overlooked lives into focus, inviting audiences to reflect on themes of social expectation and resilience.

Emelia Perez presents a potential trailblazer in the Oscars race—Karla Sofía Gascón. With a performance that mesmerised audiences at Cannes, Gascón could become the first transgender actress nominated for an Oscar. Portraying a once-feared drug lord embracing a gender-affirming transformation, she delivers a performance that is both resilient and vulnerable, telling a story of many lives that barely made it to the screen. With such remarkable acclaim, could the Academy Award be next?

As Lady Gaga steps into a role filled with both power and despair, her performance in the much-anticipated sequel to the Oscar-winning Joker positions her as a serious contender for the golden statue. Fascinating parallels are drawn between Gaga's transformative portrayal and the legacy established by Joaquin Phoenix in the first film. In this sequel, female madness and creativity intertwine, breathing life into a character teetering on the edge of darkness. As these two talents collide on screen, anticipation builds for a cinematic experience that redefines the essence of their characters.

Directed by Malcolm Washington, The Piano Lesson strikes a powerful chord, weaving a tale as old as time centred on family and heritage. As the Charles family wrestles with the fate of their treasured piano heirloom, they confront deep-rooted themes of legacy and identity that echo through Black American history. This gripping drama not only highlights their struggles but also celebrates the love and connections that bind them. Washington skillfully blends love, pain and legacy, delivering a story that resonates deeply—hitting all the right notes for Oscar recognition.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Mumbai, All We Imagine as Light emerges as a highly anticipated contender for this year's international awards, revitalising the spotlight on Asian cinema. Under the visionary direction of Payal Kapadia, the film embarks on a mystical road trip that focuses on the interplay of dreams and aspirations. The narrative revolves around nurse Prabha, whose predictable routine is disrupted by an unexpected gift from her estranged husband, while her roommate navigates the complexities of intimacy with her boyfriend. With breathtaking visuals and profound emotional depth, Kapadia’s work crafts a personal story of aspiration that is both familiar and uniquely individual, positioning All We Imagine as Light as a strong potential for the Best International Feature category at the Oscars.

Morgan Neville's animated documentary Piece by Piece delves into the dynamic life of musician and now-renowned designer American Pharrell Williams. The animation accurately mirrors his artistic journey. This visually powerful film combines vibrant animation with a pulsating rhythm, embodying the essence of Pharrell’s being—his creative spirit. With its oscillation between lively storytelling and introspective moments, Piece by Piece showcases both the most visible and the most hidden aspects of his experiences and influences.

As a leading voice in contemporary cinema, Sean Baker’s direction in Anora deserves recognition, and the Oscars could undoubtedly be his. Anora has showcased his ability to weave intricate narratives that reflect the complexities of the human experience. With an unflinching gaze and an empathetic heart, Baker immerses audiences in richly textured worlds where every character resonates with authenticity. His distinctive storytelling approach not only captivates viewers but also ignites important conversations about identity, resilience and connection. In an era of cinematic oversaturation, Anora stands as a testament to Baker's creative talent, reaffirming his status as a leading light in the industry. Buckle up—this is cinema that demands to be seen and celebrated.

Directed by Alain Guiraudie, Misrecordia emerges as a compelling French thriller that intricately weaves themes of identity and memory into a narrative that echoes the shared human experience. Critics from Doc Society have praised Misrecordia for its remarkable ability to fuse exhilarating storytelling with deep philosophical questions. We believe it’s worthy of the golden statue, as it not only captivates audiences but also invites introspection on personal and collective identities. The film beautifully illustrates cinema's power to transcend cultural divides, enriching its exploration of the complex tapestry of human existence.

In Joker: Folie à Deux, the music is emerging as one of the film's standout features. Critics from Billboard have been raving about its haunting melodies, which echo in our minds while being both powerful and uplifting. These musical elements enhance the film's exploration of emotional themes like vulnerability and resilience. While some might brush off music as just background noise, this score really digs into the psychological depths of the characters, pulling us right into their world. It is the presence of a rich soundscape that encourages us to reflect on the characters' journeys. With such impressive artistry, it’s tough to argue that this score doesn’t deserve a spot at the Oscars as a serious contender for Best Original Score.

This gritty "body horror" film featuring Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley follows a once-illustrious star’s desperate desire to reclaim her vitality. It delves into the fierce competition among women in the beauty industry, exposing a culture that equates youth and appearance with worthiness. The film's editing plays a pivotal role in crafting its intense narrative structure, tying horror and introspection together. Each cut is purposeful, creating a rhythm that heightens the tension and urgency, drawing viewers deeper into the psychological unravelling of its characters. The transitions are sharp yet fluid, allowing for moments of reflection amidst the chaos, which enriches the emotional impact of the story. This level of artistry ensures that The Substance resonates with viewers long after the credits roll, inviting them to grapple with the darker aspects of beauty and self-worth, and immersing the audience in this unsettling world.

As we approach the 2025 Oscars, Asian cinema is reshaping the film landscape. Recent victories like Parasite (2019) from Korea and Drive My Car (2021) from Japan have highlighted the strength of Asian narratives and filmmakers. These hard-earned achievements have opened doors for future stories that reflect the diverse tapestry of our world.

As Koktail represents Thailand, we see notable entries like Lahn Ma making waves, further building momentum for the Thai film industry. Movies from Thailand, India and beyond are now centre stage. This year Lahn Ma exemplifies the surge of Asian cinema and showcases how far it has come. With critics and audiences rallying behind these films, it's evident that the voices of seasoned reviewers and positive reception on trusted platforms are vital in propelling Asian cinema into the spotlight.

As we anticipate this year’s ceremony, let’s raise a toast to the filmmakers and stories that inspire us, challenge boundaries and celebrate the beauty of our shared experiences from all walks of life. Here’s to an Oscar season overflowing with creativity, representation and the undeniable brilliance of global cinema.

Looking ahead, the stage is set for the future of cinema and we can’t wait to see what these talented artists will bring to life next.