Panahi Sweeps International Categories at Gotham Awards 2025

The 34th annual Gotham Film Awards honored the year’s best in independent cinema on December 1st. Paul Thomas Anderson’s sweeping historical drama “One Battle After Another” won the prestigious Best Feature award. The ceremony, held in New York City, was marked by emotional speeches and significant political statements.

The event highlighted films and artists pushing creative boundaries outside the major studio system. According to industry reports, the Gotham Awards continue to be a critical bellwether for the upcoming awards season.

Top Honors for a Cinematic Epic

Paul Thomas Anderson accepted the top prize for “One Battle After Another.” The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio in a leading role. Anderson expressed surprise at the win after his film was passed over in other nominated categories.

He used his speech for a personal tribute. Anderson acknowledged his partner, actress Maya Rudolph. He credited her with making him a better filmmaker over their twenty-four years together.

The win solidifies the film’s position in the early Oscar race. It faced stiff competition from other acclaimed independent features. The victory is seen as a major boost for its awards campaign.

Jafar Panahi’s Defiant Sweep

The night’s most dramatic story belonged to Iranian director Jafar Panahi. His film “It Was Just an Accident” won all three of its nominated categories. It secured Best International Feature, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay.

This triumph occurred under poignant circumstances. Reports confirmed Panahi was sentenced in absentia to one year in prison in Iran just hours before the ceremony. He did not attend the New York event.

In a pre-recorded speech, Panahi dedicated his awards to independent filmmakers worldwide. He praised those who risk everything for their art and their beliefs. His wins were met with a standing ovation from the audience.

Celebrating Breakthrough Talent

Other major awards recognized new voices in filmmaking. “My Father’s Shadow” earned two key victories. Akinola Davies Jr. won the Breakthrough Director award for his work on the film.

Actress Sopé Dìrísù won Outstanding Lead Performance for her role in the same movie. Her win was considered an upset over more established Hollywood stars. The award highlights her powerful performance.

Wunmi Mosaku won Outstanding Supporting Performance for “Sinners.” Director Ryan Coogler accepted the award on her behalf. Abou Sangaré was named Breakthrough Performer for “Souleymane’s Story.”

The 2025 Gotham Awards successfully championed artistic courage and compelling storytelling, setting a resonant tone for the upcoming awards season with its mix of celebrated veterans and bold new voices.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What film won Best Feature at the 2025 Gotham Awards?

Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another” won the Best Feature award. The historical drama starring Leonardo DiCaprio was the night’s biggest winner.

Why was Jafar Panahi’s win so significant?

Panahi’s film swept its categories hours after he received a prison sentence in Iran. His wins were a powerful statement of artistic defiance and resilience.

Who were the other major winners of the night?

Sopé Dìrísù won Outstanding Lead Performance. Akinola Davies Jr. won Breakthrough Director. Both won for the film “My Father’s Shadow.”

What is the importance of the Gotham Awards?

The awards are a key indicator for the independent film awards season. They honor work created outside the traditional major studio system and often predict Oscar attention.

Where were the 2025 Gotham Awards held?

The ceremony was held in New York City. The event took place on December 1st, 2024, honoring films released in the eligible period.