The Golden Globes kicked off on January 5, 2025, ushering in the new year with dazzling outfits and shining awards. Hosted by stand-up comedian Nikki Glaser, the first solo female host in Globes’ history, the night was filled with safe, friendly roasts and memorable speeches.
Among the biggest winners was Emilia Pérez, which took home four out of the ten nominations it received, including Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. A heartfelt story about the transition of a former cartel boss, it has also received awards from the Cannes film festival and remains a film to watch out for in the upcoming Oscar race.
Although Wicked received four nominations (and was referenced humorously in Glaser’s jokes), it surprisingly didn’t end up being too popular, claiming only one win for Best Cinematic and Box Office Achievement.
Meanwhile, Fernanda Torres made history by winning Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama for her role in I’m Still Here, a thriller about a woman investigating her husband’s disappearance. Torres is notable for becoming the first Brazilian actor to achieve this honor, and she paid tribute to her mother, who was nominated for the same award back in 1999.
The Brutalist, which received seven nominations, triumphed by winning awards for Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Director, and Best Performance by a Male Actor in Motion Picture – Drama, showing its strong reception among critics.
On the television front, Shogun made its mark by winning Best TV Drama, Best Actor (Hiroyuki Sanada), Best Actress (Anna Sawai), and Best Supporting Actor (Tadanobu Asano). Set during the year 1600, just before the Japanese civil war, the series has been praised for its impressive attention to historical detail.
Netflix's Baby Reindeer also stood out, winning Best Television Series and Best Supporting Actress on Television for Jessica Gunning. Based on Richard Gadd’s own harrowing experiences with abuse and stalking, the show is described as dark yet captivating.
Another notable win was Demi Moore, who secured the award for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy Motion Picture for her role as Elizabeth Sparkle in The Substance. Overcome with emotion during her acceptance speech, she reflected on her decades-long struggle to be recognized as more than just a “popcorn” actress.
This year’s Globes were all about diversity, with both established and newer actors and projects reaping the rewards of their labor. International talent was recognized, with many films from around the world being highlighted. The night proved to be not just about awards but also about celebrating the rich variety of storytelling for which the industry is known.
Looking forward, these Golden Globe wins are likely to impact upcoming Oscar campaigns as the awards season continues to heat up. The success of Emilia Pérez and The Brutalist places them as contenders to watch.
Yet, it's important to note the backdrop of this year's celebration. The Golden Globes organization has undergone significant restructuring after past controversies. It's now presented by new entities aiming to revitalize the awards' image and standing within Hollywood. The renewed focus highlights the commitment to inclusivity as they celebrate diverse stories.
With the Globes being the first major ceremony of the awards season, they set the tone for the events to come, including the Oscars on March 2. The buzz surrounding different nominees and their performances is already palpable as fans and viewers gear up for the subsequent celebrations.