The year 2023 kicked off with a flurry of cinematic events, including the Golden Globes held on Tuesday, January 10, at the luxurious Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California. The event drew top talent and industry professionals from around the world, adding sparkle to the early awards season.
In its 80th edition, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) presented awards recognizing outstanding work in film and television at a gala hosted by Jerrod Carmichael. The ceremony began with a striking Red Carpet moment, iconic for its relaxed style and star power, and could be streamed live on Movistar Plus+ in Spain from 01:00.
The Golden Globes carry extra weight because winning can boost a film’s visibility and increase its chances during Oscar season. Many observers view the Globes as a bellwether for the Academy Awards, which in 2023 were scheduled to take place on March 12.
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Since its inception in 1943, the Golden Globes have built an international prestige that remains strong today. Yet the awards faced controversy over alleged corruption and influence-peddling practices, which at times damaged confidence in the industry. Last year, the ceremony was not broadcast due to internal issues, a blow to its reputation. After an image refresh, the gala is back on TV and regaining trust with audiences worldwide.
Over the decades, the awards have been shaped by legendary figures who helped define its legacy. Names like Meryl Streep, who has earned eight Golden Globes and many nominations, and Tom Hanks, a multi-time winner with a storied career, epitomize the event’s enduring appeal. George Clooney is another notable figure, with three Golden Globes and several nominations. Iconic films such as Titanic, La La Land, and The Social Network are part of the ceremony’s celebrated history.
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The long-running history of this awards season also features notable Spanish talent who has achieved global recognition at the Globes. Antonio Banderas and Penélope Cruz have yet to win a Golden Globe, a storyline that fans often follow with keen interest.
Javier Bardem stands out as the most recent Spaniard to win a Golden Globe. In 2008 he earned Best Supporting Actor for his role in the Coen brothers’ No Country for Old Men, a performance widely acclaimed by critics around the world. Earlier on, Alejandro Amenábar claimed the Globe for Best Foreign Language Film for The Sea Inside, a work that also swept the Best Foreign Language Film Oscar in its year.
Among Spaniards who have graced the Globes, Pedro Almodóvar remains a towering figure. The Manchego filmmaker has earned multiple nominations and secured two Best Foreign Language Film awards with All About My Mother (2000) and Talk to Her (2003). Other notable Spanish contributions include Evita, The Mask of Zorro, and roles for Antonio Banderas in projects like Introducing Pancho Villa!, Genius: Picasso, and Pain and Glory. Penélope Cruz has appeared in celebrated Globes performances as well, with nominations tied to Volver, Vicky Cristina Barcelona, Nine, and The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story. These narratives illustrate how Spanish cinema has consistently resonated with global audiences at the Globes.