With the 97th Academy Awards upon us, two questions loom: “Who are you wearing?” and “Where are you watching them?”
While the ceremony at Hollywood’s Dolby Theatre is an invitation-only affair (unless one happens to have a connection at CAA, in which case, why are we not best friends?), one doesn’t have to settle for watching the Oscars in their living room, balancing a bowl of popcorn on their lap. Marin has a few excellent big-screen viewing options, complete with red-carpet glam and gourmet snacks. It all happens this Sunday, March 2.
The Best Picture Race
Before we get into where to watch, let’s look at what’s competing for the industry’s biggest prize. The Best Picture nominees this year are a mix of high-art ambition, literary adaptations and a couple of crowd-pleasers.
- Anora (Neon) – Sean Baker’s latest indie darling, following a Brooklyn stripper who gets caught up in a whirlwind marriage.
- The Brutalist (A24) – A sweeping historical drama about an architect’s life in exile. Adrien Brody stars, hoping for another gold statuette after his Pianist win.
- A Complete Unknown (Searchlight) – Timothée Chalamet dons a Bob Dylan-worthy curly mop in James Mangold’s film about Dylan going electric.
- Conclave (Focus Features) – A high-stakes thriller set within the Vatican’s secretive papal election. Ralph Fiennes exudes gravitas in robes.
- Dune: Part Two (Warner Bros.) – Denis Villeneuve continues his journey into the sand-swept, spice-filled universe with Zendaya and Timothée Chalamet returning.
- Emilia Pérez (Netflix) – The most-nominated film of the night, this musical crime drama has already broken records.
- I’m Still Here (Sony Pictures Classics) – A Brazilian drama that’s also nominated for Best International Feature.
- Nickel Boys (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios) – Based on Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.
- The Substance (MUBI) – Demi Moore is getting career-best reviews for this body-horror psychological thriller.
- Wicked (Universal) – The long-awaited adaptation of the Broadway hit, which is a spin-off from the book inspired by The Wizard of Oz.
While some of these are still in theaters, there’s something special about watching the Oscars unfold in a theater full of like-minded cinephiles. Here’s where to catch the ceremony in Marin.
Where to Watch in Style
Cinelounge Tiburon
40 Main St., Tiburon
If one is looking for a black-tie affair, Cinelounge in downtown Tiburon is that spot. They may dress to the nines, grab a glass of bubbly and watch the stars collect (or lose) their Oscars on a state-of-the-art screen.
Tickets are $75. Search ‘Cinelounge Oscars Party’ on Eventbrite or call 415.797.6976.
Lark Theater, Larkspur
549 Magnolia Ave., Larkspur
For those who want a little more old-school glam with their Oscars, the Lark Theater in Larkspur hosts a gala viewing party with proceeds supporting youth education screenings. Bonus: Gourmet boxed dinners are available from Bella Luxe Catering in San Rafael. A limited number will also be available on-site for $25.
Tickets are $60. Visit larktheater.net or call 415.924.5111. Beer, wine and Fiorello’s Artisan Gelato are available for purchase.
Smith Rafael Film Center, San Rafael
1118 Fourth St., San Rafael
CAFILM’s Smith Rafael Film Center is opening its doors for an Oscars viewing party as well. Doors open at 2:30pm, the red carpet rolls out at 3pm, and the show starts at 4pm.General admission tickets are $35, or $30 for CAFILM members. Purchase at rafaelfilm.cafilm.org/awards-night-2025 or call 415.454.5813. Proceeds benefit CAFILM education.
