Golden Globes 2025 presents unexpected wins and cultural shifts

This year’s ceremony reflects disparities in the resonance and quality of entertainment

Staff Writer

The 82nd Annual Golden Globes, held on January 5th, kicked off award season with comedian Nikki Glaser making history as the first solo female host. The ceremony, held at Los Angeles’s iconic Beverly Hills Hilton, was a mix of glamour, memorable wins, and moments that sparked both admiration and debate.

One of the night’s biggest honors went to The Brutalist for Best Motion Picture (Drama), a surprise to those who were expecting Dune: Part 2, a cultural phenomenon among younger audiences, to take the top prize. Meanwhile, Emilia Pérez claimed the Globe for Best Motion Picture (Musical or Comedy).

On the television side, Shōgun won for Best Television Series (Drama), edging out popular titles in the category like The Diplomat, Slow Horses, and Squid Game. For high school students who have been following Squid Game’s intense plot, the Shōgun win was unexpected. Yet, on a personal note, Shōgun’s meticulous attention to detail set it apart from its contenders. From the sets and costumes to the overall production, every episode was gorgeous, with immersive direction and cinematography. While Squid Game’s stars were expected to take home wins for their performances, Anna Sawai’s portrayal of Todd Marino in Shōgun earned her the award for Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Series (Drama), marking a touching moment nearly 44 years after Yoko Shimada won the same award for the original miniseries in 1981.

Other wins were less surprising. Hacks took home the award for Best Television Series (Musical or Comedy), Baby Reindeer for Best Television Limited Series, and Wicked for Cinematic and Box Office Achievement. For fans of animated films, Flow’s win in the Best Motion Picture (Animated) category was particularly exciting. Its unique approach, involving no dialogue and instead relying solely on original animal sounds, made it a refreshing and engaging watch. The vibrant colors and universal themes make it a film that resonates with all ages.

In lighter moments on the red carpet, winners of the Timothée Chalamet and Glen Powell look-alike contest strutted while posing for photos holding signs that read, “I won a lookalike contest and now I’m at the Golden Globes.” The award ceremony wouldn’t have been complete without the captivating fashion statements of the people. This year’s red carpet featured an array of stunning looks, with bold colors, dramatic silhouettes, and elegant embroidery that swept the night.

Retrospectively speaking, it’s clear that Squid Game and Abbott Elementary, a contender for the Best Television Series (Musical or Comedy) award, were the shows that younger audiences were most invested in. Squid Game stands out for its bewitching plot and themes of inequality. Its cultural impact since its release has been undeniable. Abbott Elementary combines clever humor with the discussion of realistic day-to-day challenges faced in education. While Shōgun deserved its win for its cinematic quality, students are inclined to connect more with shows that represent and address themes of identity, diversity, and equity that reflect the concerns of modern generations.

Like each year, the 2025 Golden Globes expanded beyond honoring Hollywood’s best. It sparked conversations about film, culture, and connection, uniting people through art and the celebration of both shared and diverse perspectives.