Golden Globes 2025: Key Film Surprises and Standout Moments
Adrien Brody Triumphs Over Timothée Chalamet
The release of A Complete Unknown, a Bob Dylan biopic starring Timothée Chalamet, was expedited to secure its place in this year’s awards season. Despite critical acclaim for both the film and Chalamet’s performance, Searchlight Pictures’ decision to campaign in the drama category may have backfired. Adrien Brody claimed victory in the Best Actor – Drama category, delivering a stirring acceptance speech that underscored his chances for a second Oscar.
Brody thanked his partner, Georgina Chapman, as well as his family, and framed his film as a tribute to the courage of immigrants and the transformative power of art—sentiments that resonated with voters.
Sebastian Stan Stuns in Comedy Win
In a surprising twist, Sebastian Stan won Best Actor – Comedy or Musical for his role in A Different Man, a drama with few comedic elements. This unexpected victory over favorites Jesse Eisenberg (A Real Pain) and Hugh Grant (Heretic) highlighted the awards’ unpredictable nature. Stan also drew attention for his dual presence in The Apprentice, a Trump biopic, suggesting growing support for his versatility.
Hollywood Pushes Back
The Globes’ choices, including awards for Emilia Pérez and The Brutalist, seemed to rebuke recent political shifts. Themes of inclusivity, immigrant struggles, and institutional critique dominated the night. While this aligns with the Globes’ revitalized voter base, the Oscars—decided by a broader and more cautious electorate—may lean more conservative.
Demi Moore’s Triumphant Comeback
Demi Moore’s win for Best Actress – Musical or Comedy in The Substance was a standout moment. Her emotional speech reflected on decades of feeling overlooked in Hollywood and her decision to delay retirement for this role. Presenter Kerry Washington summed it up perfectly: “Good luck to the next person who has to give a speech.”
Fernanda Torres Upsets A-List Icons
Fernanda Torres’s Best Actress – Drama win for I’m Still Here surprised many, besting nominees like Angelina Jolie, Nicole Kidman, and Tilda Swinton. With her mother, Fernanda Montenegro, famously nominated for Central Station 25 years ago, Torres’s victory adds a compelling narrative that could propel her Oscar campaign.
Emilia Pérez Triumphs Over Anora
Sean Baker’s critically adored Anora was left empty-handed, while Jacques Audiard’s Emilia Pérez dominated with its innovative storytelling. Other notable snubs included Inside Out 2 and A Complete Unknown.
Supporting Wins Cement Frontrunners
Zoe Saldaña (Emilia Pérez) and Kieran Culkin (A Real Pain) solidified their status as award-season favorites. Saldaña’s speech advocating for trans rights and Culkin’s tequila-fueled humor captured the night’s spirit.
Eyes on Jeremy Allen White’s Springsteen Biopic
Jeremy Allen White’s consistent wins for The Bear have positioned him as a rising star. His next project, Deliver Me from Nowhere, a Bruce Springsteen biopic, is already generating Oscar buzz for 2026.
The 2025 Golden Globes not only delivered surprises and heartfelt moments but also highlighted the evolving dynamics of Hollywood’s awards landscape. Whether these trends carry through to the Oscars remains to be seen.
(This article was updated on January 6, 2025, to correct that I’m Still Here is set in Brazil, not Argentina.)