On February 28th, 2021, the 78th annual Golden Globes took place over numerous different locations. Because of the Corona Virus Pandemic, the ceremony had to be modified to fit certain CDC guidelines. Although the show looked a little different this year, that didn’t stop thousands from people from tuning in around the world to see which television shows and movies would be given the esteemed award. 

This year’s hosts, the hilarious Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, did a brilliant job of keeping the virtual audience entertained and playing well off each other, even though they were on opposite sides of the country. Fey appeared live from the Rainbow Room in New York City, while Poehler did her part from the traditional home of the Golden Globes, the Beverly Hilton. Various presenters appeared throughout the show, including Ava DuVernay, Colin Firth, Sandra Oh, Sterling K. Brown, and Gal Gadot. Each of them appeared at either the Rainbow Room or the Beverly Hilton to present their awards. 

Although the show practically went off without a hitch, what’s live television without a little mix up? Tracy Morgan, the American Comedian and SNL cast member, was brought in to present the award for best original score. He proceeded to name the nominees which included “The Midnight Sky,” “Tenet,” “News of the World,” “Mank,” and “Soul.” Morgan opened the envelope and shocked the whole country when he called out, “And the Golden Globe goes to, “Sal!” It was a hilarious mix up that Morgan later took to twitter to explain. In his tweet he stated, “Sorry SOUL. I was thinking about the pizza I was going to get from my guy SAL on the way home!!” I think all of us have been there before! Regardless, it was a harmless mistake that made the night that much more interesting. The moment was even brought up again later when the nominees for best actor in a musical or comedy were featured through zoom screens discussing the hilarious mix up. 

Aside from hilarious hosts and Morgan’s mistake, most people watch this iconic event to see if their favorite movies, tv shows, and stars will be recognized for their brilliance. Although the year had its fair share of ups and downs, there was still plenty of projects and people to be recognized. Perhaps the goal of any actor or actress’s career is receiving an acting award. This year, there were several acting awards given. Whether for acting in a motion picture, television series or limited series, these awards are very prestigious. The award for Best Actress in a Drama Motion picture went to Andra Day for “United States vs. Billy Holiday.” She gave a very tear jerking speech as she accepted her first Golden Globe. The winner of Best Actor in a Drama Motion picture was the late Chadwick Boseman for his role in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.” There is no doubt in my mind that many tears were shed after listening to Boseman’s wife give a speech on his behalf. It was a beautiful reminder that even after death we can have an impact on the people around us. When speaking to Kaylynn Koon, senior at Lafayette High School, we discussed our feelings and appreciation about the late actor. Kaylynn stated, “I didn’t know much about Chadwick’s personal life, but after he passed, I learned that he was battling cancer while he was filming his movies. [That made me realize] he was a very strong individual.” I think we can all agree that Chadwick Boseman was and will always be one of the strongest people in the entertainment industry.

Another talented person who went home with an award that night was Rosamund Pike for her work in “I Care A Lot.” Best Actor in a Motion Picture Musical/Comedy was Sacha Boran Cohen for “Borat Subsequent Movie Film.” This film had more than one award this year, also taking home the award for Best Picture Musical/Comedy. Moving on to the television motion picture category, “The Queen’s Gambit” had a very successful night taking home not only Best Television Motion Picture but also Best Actress in a Television Motion Picture in Anya Taylor-Joy. When talking with Ava Fischer, a junior at Lafayette High School, she gave her opinions on Anya-Taylor Joy and “The Queen’s Gambit.” She was asked if she believed that Anya-Taylor Joy deserved the Golden Globe and this was her response. “Yes! She’s such a talented actress and her performance in, ‘The Queen’s Gambit’ just proves that.”

Maybe the most esteemed award presented at the Golden Globes is Best Motion Picture Drama. This award went to the film “Nomadland.” This film was also awarded Best Director of Motion Picture going to Chloe Zhao. It was wonderful to see a female director win in such a prestigious category considering that only about 20% of movies are directed OR produced by women. This was only a few of the awards given out at the Golden Globes this year, but if you wish to see the full list of nominees and winners, you can do so here. https://www.goldenglobes.com/winners-nominees  

Whether you are a movie/television buff or not, everyone can appreciate the Golden Globes. Not only the fact that these awards are given to every aspect of the film industry, but the genuine excitement that shows on the recipient’s faces should be enough to put anyone in a good mood. For some, it is the accumulation of their entire career coming together at this one very moment and I know how deserving each winner is. The Golden Globes are a great way to look back on this crazy year we have had and be reminded of some of the good that came out of it.