Awards season: Golden Globes Recap and another Oscar Snub for Bradley
Like many, prior to the debacle that was Jo Koy’s Golden Globes opening monologue, I was unfamiliar with the comedian. Supposedly well-established in stand-up, he was allegedly asked after Chris Rock understandably declined (likely to avoid being further pummelled on stage). And after watching Koy’s opening monologue, my first thought was that he was not ready to take the stage at such a prestigious award show as the Golden Globes. Even popular and widely loved comedians, like Kevin Hart, claim that “award shows are often cold and are not considered good gigs." Which is why I feel that when selecting a host, it should never be a comedian who isn’t confident in their jokes. Chelsea Handler, in comparison, hosted the Critics Choice Awards, and despite the fact that I did not find every single joke funny, and neither did every audience member (cut to Robert De Niro’s frown), she holds her own and never resorts to blaming her writers or bemoaning a lack of preparation (excluding when she’s mocking Jo Koy’s performance, which pales in comparison).
"Wes Anderson’s Asteroid City, though not as successful, surprisingly missed the musical/comedy category—an unusual outcome for an Anderson film"
Now, on to the main events...
Predictably, Barbeinheimer shattered box office records with earnings of 1.4 billion and 912 million, respectively. Oppenheimer secured eight wins, while Barbie clinched six in various categories. Wes Anderson’s Asteroid City, though not as successful, surprisingly missed the musical/comedy category—an unusual outcome for an Anderson film. Seven of his previous works had garnered nominations in this category. However, this field was particularly competitive thanks to films like Barbie, American Fiction, and Poor Things.
Many were shocked at Poor Things reigning triumphant in this category. And whilst I admittedly haven’t seen it just yet, after seeing the trailer, I am already sold and will be sure to catch it at WSC in Week 6. As a fan of Yorgos Lanthimos, I encourage all to watch Poor Things. It might push you out of your comfort zone and probably make you a little uncomfortable, but I highly doubt anything will make you as uncomfortable as the scenes in Saltburn.
"Many were shocked by Bradley Cooper being snubbed yet again as he failed to get a Best Director nomination"
As the Golden Globes dust settles, attention turns to the release of the 2024 Oscar nominations. Many were shocked by Bradley Cooper being snubbed yet again as he failed to get a Best Director nomination for his film about the legendary conductor Leonard Bernstein, Maestro. Cooper was also snubbed for his 2018 adaptation of ‘A Star is Born', a box office hit lauded by critics, but he still failed to catch the attention of the Oscars.
While Cooper’s snub is notable, what struck me even more was the absence of recognition for Charles Melton in the Best Supporting Role category for May December. Getting his start in popular series like American Horror Story and Riverdale, Melton showcased his acting prowess in this film. I will admit I was interested to see how he would fair with two Hollywood greats like Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore, but I found that, to my surprise, he often quietly steals the show with a more subtle and human performance, embodying the inner conflict of his character struggling to cope with vacillating feelings of regret and doubt and his love for his wife.
Now, all that remains is to await the upcoming Oscars on March 10th. Alternatively, if you're like me, you may opt for the anticipated Variety recap of the night.
