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 offered a dazzling and emotional spectacle, where artistic triumphs mingled with bold stances. With meaningful speeches, breathtaking outfits, and award lists celebrating diversity, this edition is already among the most memorable.
The Triumph of The Brutalist
Director Brady Corbet made Golden Globes history by winning three major awards for The Brutalist. This poignant drama follows the journey of a Hungarian architect who emigrated after World War II, exploring themes of exile and resilience. The film was crowned Best Drama Film, Best Director, and Best Actor for Adrien Brody‘s masterful performance.
In his speech, Brody, visibly moved, reaffirmed the importance of remembering the sacrifices of previous generations. "This role is not just a story of exile. It reflects a universal hope: the hope of rebuilding, even in the worst circumstances." As for Brady Corbet, he advocated for an ambitious cinematic vision, emphasizing that "artistic courage should always prevail over the fear of rejection."
Emilia Pérez: When Jacques Audiard Breaks Conventions
The musical comedy Emilia Pérez was also one of the big winners of the evening, winning four Golden Globes: Best Musical or Comedy Film, Best Foreign 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 undergoing gender transition, played by Karla Sofía Gascón.
Zoe Saldaña, visibly touched, praised Audiard’s artistic courage. "Jacques, you dare to say the unspeakable with a unique poetry. Thank you for trusting us to bring this extraordinary story to life." For his part, Audiard dedicated his awards to all those who, like Emilia, "choose to be themselves, no matter the cost."
The famous French minister Rachida Dati was present in the room. She, who has been maintained in culture expressed her pride in this achievement. "Jacques Audiard continues to carry the colors of French cinema high internationally, with audacity and finesse that honor us all. Emilia Pérez is a major work that transcends borders and prejudices," she told journalists.
Demi Moore: A Comeback in Hollywood
At 62, Demi Moore finally received her first Golden Globe for her performance in _The Substance_, a psychological thriller by Coralie Fargeat. This remarkable performance allowed her to respond to decades of criticism that considered her a "popcorn actress." In a poignant speech, Moore stated: "This role is not just a personal victory. 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 Legend Honored
The dazzling Viola Davis was honored with the prestigious Cecil B. DeMille Award, recognizing her outstanding contribution to the entertainment industry. Her speech, a true masterclass of inspiration, traced her journey from a childhood marked by poverty to her status as an international icon. "This award, I dedicate to all the little girls who dream. Magic is real, but you have to create it yourself," she declared to a standing ovation.
Television in the Spotlight: Shogun and Hacks
On the series side, the historical epic Shogun dominated the drama categories with four awards, including Best Drama Series and Best Actors for Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai. Inspired by James Clavell’s eponymous novel, the series impressed with its ambitious production and immersive exploration of feudal Japan.
In the comedy category, the series Hacks confirmed its must-watch status by winning the awards for Best Comedy Series and Best Actress for Jean Smart, who continues to dazzle with her role as a cynical and endearing stand-up comedian.
An Evening Marked by Diversity and Boldness
Nikki Glaser‘s hosting, known for her incisive humor, brought a breath of fresh air. With cleverly dosed jokes and avant-garde outfits, she helped revitalize a ceremony often criticized for its lack of modernity.
The awards given to works like Emilia Pérez were praised for their celebration of inclusive and innovative themes. However, some controversial choices, such as the absence of recognition for Anora, a critically acclaimed drama, fueled debates on social media.
On the Road to the Oscars
With The Brutalist, Emilia Pérez, and The Substance as major favorites, the race to the Oscars promises to be thrilling. This 82nd edition of the Golden Globes successfully combined emotion, glamour, and reflection, reaffirming the central role of cinema and television in our society. The curtain has fallen on an exceptional evening, but the echo of its speeches will resonate for a long time.
Golden Globes 2025 Winners
Best Drama Film
- The Brutalist
Best Musical or Comedy Film
- Emilia Pérez
Best Director
- Brady Corbet, The Brutalist
Best Screenplay
- Peter Straughan, Conclave
Best Actress in a Drama
- Fernanda Torres, I Am Still Here
Best Actor in a Drama
- Adrien Brody, The Brutalist
Best Supporting Actress
- Zoe Saldaña, Emilia Pérez
Best Supporting Actor
- Kieran Culkin, A Real Pain
Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy Film
- Demi Moore, The Substance
Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy Film
- Sebastian Stan, A Different Man
Best Box Office Success
- Wicked
Best Original Song
- “El Mal” — Emilia Pérez
Best Original Score
- Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross — Challengers
Best Animated Film
- Flow
Best Foreign Film
- Emilia Pérez (France)
Best Stand-Up Comedian
- Ali Wong, Single Day
Best Comedy or Musical Series
- Hacks
Best Anthology Series, Miniseries, or TV Movie
- My Little Reindeer
Best Drama Series
- Shōgun
Best Actress in a Drama Series
- Anna Sawai, Shōgun
Best Actor in a Drama Series
- Hiroyuki Sanada, Shōgun
Best Actor in a Miniseries or TV Movie
- Colin Farrell, The Penguin
Best Actor in a Comedy or Musical Series
- Jeremy Allen White, The Bear
Best Actress in a Miniseries or TV Movie
- Jodie Foster, True Detective: Night Country
Best Supporting Actress in a Series
- Jessica Gunning, My Little Reindeer
Best Supporting Actor in a Series
- Tadanobu Asano, Shōgun
Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical Series
- Jean Smart, Hacks
