Golden Globes awards: ‘The Brutalist,’ ‘Emilia Perez’ triumph

Two bold and audacious films took center stage at the 82nd Golden Globes, shaking up the traditional awards ceremony with their innovative storytelling and daring performances. Brady Corbet’s epic postwar drama “The Brutalist” and Jacques Audiard’s genre-shifting trans musical “Emilia Perez” emerged as the big winners of the night, capturing the top honors and setting the stage for a potentially groundbreaking awards season.
“The Brutalist,” a 215-minute cinematic masterpiece shot in VistaVision and released with an intermission, defied all expectations by clinching the title of best film, drama. The film, which delves into the life of a mid-century designer, also secured wins for best director for Corbet and best actor for Adrien Brody. In his acceptance speech, Corbet reflected on the challenges of bringing such a unique and ambitious project to life, emphasizing the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision despite skepticism from the industry.
On the other end of the spectrum, “Emilia Perez” captivated audiences with its captivating blend of music, drama, and social commentary. The Spanish language film took home the award for best film, comedy or musical, solidifying its status as a top contender for the upcoming Academy Awards. The film also scored wins for best supporting actress for Zoe Saldana, best song (“El Mal”), and best non-English language film. Director Jacques Audiard and transgender star Karla Sofia Gascon delivered powerful speeches highlighting the film’s message of resilience and self-acceptance in the face of adversity.
The star-studded event saw a mix of established and emerging talents taking home awards, with some unexpected surprises along the way. Demi Moore’s win for best actress in a comedy or musical for her role in “The Substance” marked a triumphant return to the spotlight for the veteran actress, who expressed gratitude for the recognition after decades in the industry. Brazilian actress Fernanda Torres also scored a surprising win for best actress in a drama film for her performance in “I’m Still Here,” a poignant story set against the backdrop of political turmoil in 1970s Rio de Janeiro.
In the television categories, familiar favorites like “Shogun,” “Hacks,” and “The Bear” emerged victorious, showcasing the diverse range of talent and storytelling in the small screen landscape. Ali Wong, Jodie Foster, and Colin Farrell were among the standout winners, each delivering memorable performances that resonated with audiences and critics alike.
As the film industry continues to evolve and push boundaries, the Golden Globes served as a platform to celebrate innovation, diversity, and creativity in storytelling. From epic postwar dramas to genre-defying musicals, the winning films of the night proved that art knows no boundaries and has the power to inspire, challenge, and uplift audiences around the world.