Gladiator 2 isn't Denzel Washington's only chance at an Oscar nomination in 2025

Denzel Washington could receive an Oscar nomination for a 2024 film in which he didn't even appear. After receiving a 2025 Golden Globe nomination in the “Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting” category, it's possible that Washington could also be nominated for an Oscar for his work in Gladiator II. Washington joined the Gladiator II cast as Macrinus, an arms dealer and gladiator owner who has ambitions to rule Rome.

The story of Macrinus in Gladiator II is very interesting, as it was owned by former Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius for many years before finally gaining its freedom. Washington's impressive performance in Gladiator II makes Macrinus one of the most interesting characters in the film. After the release of Gladiator IIit has been suggested that Washington deserves an Oscar nomination for Best Actor. However, Washington could also receive another 2025 Oscar nomination for a film he produced.

The piano lesson could earn Denzel Washington an Oscar nomination for best film

Denzel Washington may also be nominated as producer

The piano lesson It first premiered at the Telluride Film Festival in August 2024 before arriving on Netflix in November. The piano lesson it currently has an 88% on Rotten Tomatoes (via Rotten tomatoes) and was directed by Washington's son, Malcolm Washington. Additionally, the adaptation of August Wilson's play stars Washington's other son, John David Washington. Denzel Washington produced the film, making The piano lesson an endeavor that included several family members.

The story of The piano lesson follows Boy Willie, who travels from Mississippi to Pittsburgh to visit his sister, Berniece. Throughout the film, Boy Willie and Berniece debate whether they should sell their family piano. The touching family story was well-received by critics, suggesting it could be nominated for Best Picture at the 2025 Oscars. As Denzel Washington is credited as a producer, this is yet another award he could be nominated for at next year's Oscars.

Best Picture Nomination for Piano Lesson Would Continue Denzel Washington's Oscar Trend

Denzel Washington found success with his adaptations of August Wilson

In 2015, Denzel Washington made a deal with the estate of August Wilson to adapt all 10 of Wilson's play series called The Pittsburgh Cycle. The first of these adaptations occurred in 2016, when Washington starred in the critically acclaimed film. Fences. Fences is based on August Wilson's 1987 play and follows Troy Maxson, who fights with his wife and son while building a fence around his Pittsburgh home.

Fences was nominated for several awards at the 2017 Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Washington. Wilson's second adaptation of Washington, 2020 Ma Rainey Black BottomIt was also nominated for several Academy Awards. Although it was not nominated for Best Picture Ma Rainey Black Bottom He was nominated for awards such as Best Actor and Best Actress. Therefore, The piano lesson being nominated for an Oscar in 2025 would continue the trend Denzel Washington is happening with his August Wilson adaptations.