The 82nd Golden Globes unfolded on Sunday with star-studded wins, poignant speeches, and a fair share of surprises. Held at the iconic Beverly Hilton, the event celebrated remarkable performances, daring stories, and the artistry of cinema. Demi Moore and Sebastian Stan took home two of the evening’s top honors, etching their names into Globes history.
A Comeback for the Ages: Demi Moore’s Triumph
Demi Moore’s win for her performance in The Substance was a moment of vindication and celebration. The 62-year-old actress, long revered for her work in Hollywood, secured her first Golden Globe for best actress in a comedy or musical. Moore’s role in The Substance, a darkly humorous body-horror film about a Hollywood star desperate to regain her youth, stood out among tough competition.
The victory shocked many, especially since Moore outpaced heavy favorite Mikey Madison of Anora. Taking the stage, Moore’s emotions ran high as she reflected on her 45-year career.
“Thirty years ago, I had a producer tell me I was a ‘popcorn actress,’” Moore revealed, referencing past criticisms. This marked her first Globes win since her nomination for Ghost in 1991. Fans and critics alike lauded her for breathing new life into her craft, solidifying her legacy as a transformative performer.
Sebastian Stan Wins Big with A Different Man
Sebastian Stan’s powerful portrayal in A Different Man earned him the Globe for best supporting actor in a musical or comedy. The film, which delves into themes of physical transformation and personal acceptance, saw Stan embody a man whose life changes after reconstructive surgery.
“This role pushed boundaries, and these are the stories we need to tell,” said Stan during his acceptance speech. He also acknowledged the challenges of getting films with complex themes funded, emphasizing their cultural importance.
Stan’s win adds to a stellar year, including a nomination for his portrayal of Donald Trump in The Apprentice. His versatility continues to draw critical acclaim, solidifying him as one of Hollywood’s most compelling actors.
Nikki Glaser’s Witty Start to the Evening
Host Nikki Glaser kicked off the night with her trademark humor, blending charm and irreverence. Glaser, known for her sharp comedy, began with a promise: “I’m not here to roast you.” Yet, she spared no one in her opening monologue, cracking jokes that landed well in the star-filled room.
Glaser poked fun at the crowd’s influence—or lack thereof—on politics, quipping, “You could really do anything … except tell the country who to vote for.” She even shared a light moment with Wicked star Ariana Grande, joking, “Ariana, hold my finger.”
While not every line hit the mark, Glaser’s performance was seen as an improvement over last year’s host. Her self-deprecating humor and timely quips brought a fresh energy to the event.
Celebrating Cinematic Excellence
The night’s winners showcased an array of genres, from the epic to the experimental.
- The Brutalist, a historical drama about a Jewish architect post-World War II, took home best director for Brady Corbet. The film, made on a tight budget, resonated with its poignant storytelling and visual mastery.
- Wicked continued its winning streak, claiming the award for cinematic and box-office achievement. The film has grossed nearly $700 million worldwide, cementing its status as a commercial and critical success.
- Emilia Pérez, a genre-defying trans musical, was a standout with three wins, including best non-English language film. Director Jacques Audiard spoke of the film as a celebration of sisterhood, adding, “If there were more sisters in the world, maybe it would be a better place.”
A Night of Firsts and Farewells
The Globes also paid tribute to the late filmmaker Jeff Baena, who passed away just days before the event. Brady Corbet, in his acceptance speech, dedicated his win to Baena’s memory, calling him “a brilliant artist and dear friend.”
Meanwhile, the Latvian animated film Flow charmed voters with its silent, surreal depiction of a cat navigating a flooded world. It triumphed in the best animated film category, beating high-profile contenders like Inside Out 2.
Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross added to their impressive resume with a win for best score for Challengers. The duo’s pulsating music elevated the film, earning widespread praise.
Hollywood’s Resilience Amid Uncertainty
The night reflected both celebration and caution, as Glaser humorously pointed out Hollywood’s limitations in influencing broader societal change. Yet, the triumphs of films like The Substance, A Different Man, and Emilia Pérez reaffirmed the industry’s ability to tackle tough topics with sensitivity and artistry.
While awards season remains unpredictable, the Globes set the tone with its mix of heartfelt speeches, unexpected wins, and a few well-placed jabs. It was a night to remember, proving once again that Hollywood’s brightest moments often come from the least expected places.
