The clock is ticking down to the 2025 Golden Globes, with the ceremony set to take place on January 5, 2025, and anticipation is building over which talents will emerge victorious from this year’s rich crop of cinematic achievements. With December’s nominations already illuminating the stage, film enthusiasts and industry insiders are attempting to predict who will take home accolades across the different movie categories.
The Golden Globes, often seen as the bellwether for the Academy Awards, have set the scene for intense competition. After leading the nominations tally with ten nods, the Netflix-distributed musical, Emilia Pérez, is hotly tipped to garner significant wins. Yet, the gritty drama The Brutalist, which follows closely, is proving to be formidable competition, boasting strong performances and compelling storytelling.
Many are asking if Anora, another exciting contender, can continue its winning streak after prevailing at several prominent festivals this past summer. Megan Camponovo, covering entertainment for Hearst Television’s National Desk, alongside her colleagues, has provided predictions for the key movie categories, showcasing the fierce race for awards glory.
Best Motion Picture - Drama
Predicted Winner: The Brutalist
Across the board, The Brutalist stands out as the predicted winner for Best Motion Picture - Drama. The film’s gripping narrative and stellar performances, particularly from Adrien Brody, have captivated critics and audiences alike. With such substantial accolades under its belt, voters seem inclined to recognize this film with the top prize, though Conclave may pose as potential competition.
Best Performance by A Male Actor in A Motion Picture - Drama
Predicted Winner: Timothée Chalamet (A Complete Unknown)
Chalamet’s transformative portrayal of Bob Dylan is heralded as his best yet, potentially leading to his first Golden Globe win after three previous nominations. Given the film's strategic release close to year-end, his performance has generated significant buzz, positioning him as the frontrunner against competition from standout actors like Adrien Brody and Ralph Fiennes.
Best Performance by A Female Actor in A Motion Picture - Drama
Predicted Winner: Angelina Jolie (Maria)
With the award's history pointing toward recognizing established stars, Angelina Jolie is positioned to win for her portrayal of opera singer Maria Callas. Given her illustrious history at the Globes, this opportunity is one voters may seize to acknowledge her, particularly considering the lack of significant competition from lesser-known films.
Best Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy
Predicted Winner: Emilia Pérez
Given its popularity and number of nominations, Emilia Pérez is expected to take the win. The film's light-hearted narrative provides the perfect counterbalance to the weightier dramas, making it the likely favorite. Even with competition from potential heavyweights like Anora and Wicked, the enthusiasm surrounding Emilia Pérez may just give it the edge.
Best Performance by A Male Actor in A Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy
Predicted Winner: Hugh Grant (Heretic)
Hugh Grant is making waves this season, and many predict he will reclaim momentum with this potential win. Known for his captivating screen presence and charm, Grant might best his stiff competition from Jesse Eisenberg and Sebastian Stan, bolstering his chances for the Oscars.
Best Performance by A Female Actor in A Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy
Predicted Winner: Mikey Madison (Anora)
Mikey Madison is anticipated to win for her gripping performance, which showcases raw emotion and depth. Following her transformative character study, Madison’s recognition at the Globes is set to pave the way for potential Academy recognition.
Best Performance by A Male Actor in A Supporting Role
Predicted Winner: Denzel Washington (Gladiator II)
Denzel Washington has previously dominated award seasons and this year bears similar potential after his strong showing. Despite rising competition, his well-regarded performance is still distinctly commanding attention.
Best Performance by A Female Actor in A Supporting Role
Predicted Winner: Ariana Grande (Wicked)
Ariana Grande’s portrayal of Glinda is highlighted by her perfect balance of comedic timing and emotional gravitas, earning her aspirational favorites for her performance.
Best Director - Motion Picture
Predicted Winner: Brady Corbet (The Brutalist)
Corbet's vision and execution have brought The Brutalist to life, drawing admiration across the board, making him the expected winner in this tightly contested category as well.
Best Screenplay - Motion Picture
Predicted Winner: Peter Straughan (Conclave)
Straughan’s adaptation has caught the eye of critics through compelling dialogue and structure, positioning him favorably against other strong contenders.
Best Motion Picture - Animated
Predicted Winner: The Wild Robot
Praised for its stunning animation and storytelling, The Wild Robot is seen favorably to win, showcasing the prowess of DreamWorks.
Best Motion Picture - Non-English Language
Predicted Winner: All We Imagine as Light
This film is anticipated to win through its critically acclaimed narrative and directorial work.
Best Original Score
Predicted Winner: Hans Zimmer (Dune: Part Two)
Zimmer’s atmospheric score has become widely recognized and is reputed to bring another award to his extensive repertoire.
Best Original Song
Predicted Winner: "Mi Camino" from Emilia Pérez
The emotional resonance and lyrical depth marked this piece as notable, placing it forward on various lists.
Cinematic And Box Office Achievement
Predicted Winner: Deadpool & Wolverine
This highly anticipated entry is expected to take home the prize amid fierce box office competition.
With such anticipated performances and productions shaping the awards circuit, the 2025 Golden Globes will undoubtedly keep audiences on the edge of their seats. The diverse range of nominees and the celebratory spirit of the event promise to provide entertainment and insight on the future of cinema.