Oscars Design round-up: Outstanding film sets from the 2025 Academy Awards (Video podcast)

🎙️Episode Summary

In this episode of The Film and Furniture Podcast, host Paula Benson takes us on a design-centric journey through the 97th Academy Awards, highlighting the nominees and winners for Best Production Design and other key categories. From the magical world of Wicked to the gothic atmosphere of Nosferatu, the futuristic landscapes of Dune Part Two, and the intensity of The Brutalist, Paula explores how these films create unforgettable worlds through design. With in-depth insights on each nominee, the conversation also touches on other notable Oscar winners Anora, Emilia Pérez and The Substance, focusing on their unique visual styles.

 

🍿 Episode Highlights

Wicked: A deep dive into the world-building brilliance of this musical reimagining, designed by Nathan Crowley. The film's sweeping design transports audiences into a magical world, with set decorator Lee Sandeles playing a crucial role.

Nosferatu: A look at Robert Eggers' gothic horror masterpiece, featuring impressive set designs by Craig Lathrop that creates authentic interiors and eerie castles

Dune Part Two: Patrice Vermette, the production designer, and Shane Vieau, the set decorator, join Paula to discuss how the film's design showcases the different cultures and houses of the Dune universe.

The Brutalist: A conversation on the film's striking set design by Judy Becker and Patricia Cuccia, reflecting the life of a fictional visionary architect, and inspired by the works of post-war architects like Marcel Breuer.

Conclave: An exploration of this political thriller’s minimalistic, symmetrical design and bold colour palette, brought to life by production designer Suzie Davies.

Other Oscar Winners: A look at Emilia Pérez, Anora, and The Substance, discussing their design choices, from gritty realism to profound cultural reflections.

Host:
Paula Benson – Host of The Film and Furniture Podcast and expert in film design and interiors.

Mentioned Films:

• Wicked (Directed by John M. Chu)
• Nosferatu (Directed by Robert Eggers)
• Dune Part Two (Directed by Denis Villeneuve)
• The Brutalist (Directed by Brady Corbet)
• Conclave (Directed by Edward Berger)
• Emilia Perez (Directed by Jacques Audiard)
• Anora (Directed by Sean Baker)
• The Substance (Directed by Coralie Fargeat)

⏰ When to Watch/Listen This Video? You can watch or listen to this video podcast before seeing the film, and it may enhance your viewing experience. However, please note that it contains SPOILERS. If you're sensitive to them, feel free to watch it after you've seen the film—chances are, it might make you want to watch it all over again!

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Credits
Film and Furniture Founder/Editor: Paula Benson
Series Podcast Producer: Suzanne Courage
Video/Podcast Editor: Paula Benson (featuring previous episodes from Laura Spini, Ira Putilova and Emma Youell).
Graphics: Paul West @Form Design and Branding

With thanks to all the relevant Film studios.