The 2021 Golden Globes were held last night in a mostly good, sometimes weird, ceremony simulcast from both coasts (and everywhere in between). While the HFPA has been under fire for its archaic and secretive practices, corruption and discriminatory policies, the show must go on. Hosts Tina Fey and Amy Poehler made a few jabs at the HFPA, but kept the fangs in. Most of these movies I have recommended previously.
I’m not going to recap everything, I wanted to highlight some films, actors, directors, writers, etc that were awarded. The things I recommend are in chronological order of the show. And no tv! Enjoy!
Best Supporting Actor (Drama)
Daniel Kaluuya, Judas and the Black Messiah: The first award went to Daniel Kaluuya in the supporting actor category for his fiery portrayal in the biopic of Fred Hampton. A vital and timely film, Kaluuya turned in a magnetic portrayal of the outspoken Black Panther leader. On HBO Max now.
Best Motion Picture (Animated)
Soul: Pixar’s second film of 2020 has been a critical and commercial success. Focusing on the studio’s first black protagonist (Jamie Foxx) as a down on his luck jazz musician whose soul escapes before going to the great beyond. It’s a wonderful film about taking chances, being grateful for life, and finding your spark. On Disney+ now.
Best Screenplay
Aaron Sorkin, Trial of the Chicago 7: Probably not Sorkin’s most celebrated work, but certainly the most Sorkin in years. Blistering and witty dialogue, an all-star cast, and a historical event highlight on of 2020’s many courtroom dramas. On Netflix now.
Best Actress (Comedy/Musical)
Rosamund Pike, I Care A Lot: The recent dark comedy hinges on Pike’s sociopathic performance as she uses her whip smarts, 1,000-watt smile, curt bob, charm, and deadly determination. The film is uneven (set in Boston, yet no accents?), but entertaining and has strong supporting roles. On Netflix now.
Best Motion Picture (Foreign)
Lee Isaac Chung, Minari: A preview of a future film recommendation. Minari is an amazingly human and heartbreaking film about a Korean immigrant family trying to make it in the Midwest in the ‘80s. The HFPA bungled it (with its aforementioned archaic rules), foreign films aren’t allowed to be considered for its Best Picture categories. Which it certainly should be. On VoD now.
Best Supporting Actress (Drama)
Jodie Foster, The Mauritanian: Full disclosure, I haven’t seen this film, although I’ve heard it’s very good. Jodie Foster is always very good (and gave her acceptance speech in pjs). In theaters now.
Best Actor (Drama)
Chadwick Boseman, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom: In a normal world, Chadwick’s performance in this film would win the acting award. But given the tragedy of his passing in 2020 from cancer, it gives Boseman’s final performance a haunting quality. Please watch this film. On Netflix now.
Best Director
Best Picture (Drama)
Chloe Zhao, Nomadland: Featured in last week’s newsletter, Zhao’s most seen film (soon to be eclipsed by The Eternals) is a journey in the American Southwest, following the nomad community. Highlighted by stunning landscapes and intimate moments, Nomadland is a breathtaking film. Watch for Zhao to win more statues this awards season (she’s second woman to win a Directing Globe). On Hulu now.
Best Picture (Comedy/Musical)
Best Actor (Comedy/Musical)
Sacha Baron Cohen, Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Double duty for Borat here. The actor took home the statue for Best Actor (comedy/musical) and the film took home the Best picture (comedy/musical). In a thinner-than-usual year for comedy, the cultural commentary sequel to Borat shined a light, once again, on America today: Political divide, racism, and the pandemic. Watch it on Amazon Prime now.
Best Actress (Drama)
Andra Day, The United States vs. Billie Holiday: I have not seem this film but this was a big time curveball at the Globes. My money was on Viola Davis (Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom) or maybe Carey Mulligan (Promising Young Woman). But the film is on Amazon Prime, so check it out!
Shoutout Letterboxd for helping the film community keep track!
For last week’s recommendations, check it out here.