Credits: jdeeringdavis / Wikimedia Commons — CC BY 2.0.
The 82nd Golden Globe Awards, held on January 5, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, kicked off the film and television awards season. This annual event delivered a spectacle that was both dazzling and emotional, where artistic triumphs were mixed with bold statements. With meaningful speeches, jaw-dropping outfits, and a roster honoring diversity, this edition is already one of the most memorable.
The Triumph Of The Brutalist
Director Brady Corbet made Golden Globes history by taking home three major honors for The Brutalist. This moving drama follows the journey of a Hungarian architect who emigrates after World War II, exploring themes of exile and resilience. The film was named Best Motion Picture — Drama, Best Director, and Best Actor for Adrien Brody’s masterful performance.
During his speech, a visibly moved Brody reaffirmed the importance of remembering the sacrifices of previous generations. “This role is not just a story of exile. It reflects a universal hope: to rebuild, even in the worst circumstances.” As for Brady Corbet, he argued for ambitious filmmaking, stressing that “artistic courage should always come before fear of rejection.”
Emilia Pérez: When Jacques Audiard Breaks The Mold
The musical Emilia Pérez was also one of the evening’s big winners, taking home four Golden Globes: Best Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy, Best Foreign Language Film, Best Original Song (“El Mal”), and Best Supporting Actress for Zoe Saldaña. This bold film, directed by Jacques Audiard, tells the story of a Mexican drug trafficker in gender transition, played by Karla Sofía Gascón.
Zoe Saldaña, visibly moved, praised Audiard’s artistic bravery. “Jacques, you dare to say the unsayable with a unique poetry. Thank you for trusting us to bring this extraordinary story to life.” For his part, Audiard dedicated his awards to everyone who, like Emilia, “chooses to be themselves, whatever the cost.”
The famous French minister Rachida Dati was in attendance. The person who was kept on the culture beat wanted to express her pride in the success. “Jacques Audiard continues to fly the flag for French cinema internationally, with a boldness and finesse that honor us all. Emilia Pérez is a major work that transcends borders and prejudice,” she told reporters.
Demi Moore: A Hollywood Comeback
At 62, Demi Moore finally received her first Golden Globe for her performance in _The Substance_, a psychological thriller by Coralie Fargeat. This standout performance allowed her to answer decades of criticism that dismissed her as a “popcorn actress.” In an emotional speech, Moore said: “This role is not just a personal win. It’s proof that women can reinvent themselves at any age.” She warmly thanked Fargeat for offering her such a rare and daring opportunity.
Viola Davis: A Honored Legend
The dazzling Viola Davis was awarded the prestigious Cecil B. DeMille Award, recognizing her outstanding contribution to the entertainment industry. Her speech, a true master class in inspiration, traced her journey from a childhood marked by poverty to her status as an international icon. “I dedicate this award to all the little girls who dream. Magic is real, but you have to create it yourself,” she said to a standing ovation.
Television In The Spotlight: Shogun And Hacks
In television, the historical epic Shogun dominated the drama categories with four awards, including Best Drama Series and Best Actor and Actress for Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai. Inspired by James Clavell’s novel of the same name, the series impressed with its ambitious production and immersive exploration of feudal Japan.
In the comedy category, Hacks confirmed its must-watch status by winning Best Comedy Series and Best Actress for Jean Smart, who continues to dazzle with her role as a cynical yet lovable stand-up comic.
An Evening Defined By Diversity And Boldness
Nikki Glaser’s hosting, known for her sharp humor, brought a breath of fresh air. With carefully timed jokes and avant-garde outfits, she helped revitalize a ceremony often criticized for lacking modernity.
Awards given to works like Emilia Pérez were praised for celebrating inclusive and innovative themes. However, some controversial choices, such as the lack of recognition for Anora, a critically acclaimed drama, fueled debate on social media.
On The Road To The Oscars
With The Brutalist, Emilia Pérez, and The Substance as the front-runners, the race to the Oscars is shaping up to be thrilling. This 82nd Golden Globes ceremony managed to combine emotion, glamour, and reflection, reaffirming the central role of film and television in our society. The curtain has fallen on an exceptional night, but the echo of its speeches will resonate for a long time.
2025 Golden Globes Winners List
Best Motion Picture — Drama
- The Brutalist
Best Motion Picture — Musical Or Comedy
- Emilia Pérez
Best Director
- Brady Corbet, The Brutalist
Best Screenplay
- Peter Straughan, Conclave
Best Actress In A Motion Picture — Drama
- Fernanda Torres, I’m Still Here
Best Actor In A Motion Picture — Drama
- Adrien Brody, The Brutalist
Best Supporting Actress In Any Motion Picture
- Zoe Saldaña, Emilia Pérez
Best Supporting Actor In Any Motion Picture
- Kieran Culkin, A Real Pain
Best Actress In A Motion Picture — Musical Or Comedy
- Demi Moore, The Substance
Best Actor In A Motion Picture — Musical Or Comedy
- Sebastian Stan, A Different Man
Best Cinematic And Box Office Achievement
- Wicked
Best Original Song
- “El Mal” — Emilia Pérez
Best Original Score
- Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross — Challengers
Best Animated Feature Film
- Flow
Best Motion Picture — Non-English Language
- Emilia Pérez (France)
Best Stand-Up Comedian
- Ali Wong, Single Day
Best Television Series — Musical Or Comedy
- Hacks
Best Television Series — Anthology, Limited Series, Or Motion Picture Made For Television
- Baby Reindeer
Best Television Series — Drama
- Shōgun
Best Actress In A Television Series — Drama
- Anna Sawai, Shōgun
Best Actor In A Television Series — Drama
- Hiroyuki Sanada, Shōgun
Best Actor In A Limited Series, Anthology Series, Or Motion Picture Made For Television
- Colin Farrell, The Penguin
Best Actor In A Television Series — Musical Or Comedy
- Jeremy Allen White, The Bear
Best Actress In A Limited Series, Anthology Series, Or Motion Picture Made For Television
- Jodie Foster, True Detective: Night Country
Best Supporting Actress In A Television Series
- Jessica Gunning, Baby Reindeer
Best Supporting Actor In A Television Series
- Tadanobu Asano, Shōgun
Best Actress In A Television Series — Musical Or Comedy
- Jean Smart, Hacks