The Golden Globes are back, and 2025 promises to be another unforgettable night! The stars will shine bright on Sunday, January 5, as the 82nd annual awards show kicks off. After making a big move to CBS, following their acquisition by Dick Clark Productions, the Golden Globes are all set to dazzle with a fresh look. This change comes after a five-year deal was inked with CBS in March. Helen Hoehne, president of the Golden Globes, promised this year’s ceremony will be the best one yet.
Last year, hits like Succession, The Bear, and Oppenheimer snagged major awards. But now, the question is: Who will take home the golden statues this time? Will Jacques Audiard’s Emilia Pérez steal the show? Can Jeremy Allen White score his third win for The Bear? Let’s dive into my predictions for the 2025 Golden Globes, including Best Motion Picture, Best Lead Actor, and more!
Best Motion Picture: Drama
PureWow’s pick: The Brutalist
Last year’s winner: Oppenheimer
This year, The Brutalist has serious potential. Brady Corbet’s historical drama tackles the immigrant experience, highlighting the darker sides of capitalism, the American Dream, and racial tensions. With stunning visuals and performances, it’s a standout. The movie has already earned rave reviews, including a 97% score on Rotten Tomatoes. It’s not hard to imagine this one taking home the Globe.
Best Actor in a Motion Picture: Drama
PureWow’s pick: Adrien Brody (The Brutalist)
Last year’s winner: Cillian Murphy (Oppenheimer)
Brody’s performance in The Brutalist is already being called Oscar-worthy. He plays a Holocaust survivor turned architect who struggles to adjust to life in America. His portrayal of a man holding onto hope while battling personal and societal challenges is truly moving. Critics are buzzing, and it seems like Brody might just walk away with this win.
Best Actress in a Motion Picture: Drama
PureWow’s pick: Tilda Swinton (The Room Next Door)
Last year’s winner: Lily Gladstone (Killers of the Flower Moon)
Tilda Swinton gives a hauntingly beautiful performance in The Room Next Door. Her portrayal of a woman facing death with quiet dignity, coupled with her scenes opposite Julianne Moore, makes for some of the most powerful moments of the year. With such a nuanced performance, Swinton is a strong contender in this category.
Best Motion Picture: Comedy or Musical
PureWow’s pick: Wicked
Last year’s winner: Poor Things
Wicked is a box-office smash, and for good reason! The film has already sparked Oscar buzz with its epic musical numbers and fantastic cast, including Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh, and Peter Dinklage. The Broadway adaptation has captured audiences worldwide, and it’s ready to steal the Golden Globe. Trust me, it’s worth the hype!
Best Actor in a Motion Picture: Comedy or Musical
PureWow’s pick: Jesse Eisenberg (A Real Pain)
Last year’s winner: Paul Giamatti (The Holdovers)
Jesse Eisenberg’s portrayal of David in A Real Pain is nothing short of captivating. The film explores David’s struggles with anxiety and his complicated relationship with his cousin. Eisenberg nails the role with depth and vulnerability. His performance has already earned him praise from critics, making him a top pick for this category.
Best Actress in a Motion Picture: Comedy or Musical
PureWow’s pick: Demi Moore (The Substance)
Last year’s winner: Emma Stone (Poor Things)
Demi Moore’s performance in The Substance stands out. She plays Elisabeth Sparkle, an aging movie star desperate to regain her youth. Moore’s portrayal is chilling and emotional, earning her critical acclaim. Her raw talent shines through, making her a strong contender for Best Actress.
Best Limited Series
PureWow’s pick: Baby Reindeer
Last year’s winner: Beef
Baby Reindeer is one of Netflix’s best original shows. It’s dark, intense, and emotional, with standout performances from Richard Gadd and Jessica Gunning. The series explores trauma and mental health in a bold way, and it’s already earned six Emmy Awards. This show is definitely one to watch for a potential Golden Globe victory.
Best TV Series: Drama
PureWow’s pick: Sh?gun
Last year’s winner: Succession
Sh?gun is on fire! With an impressive 99% score on Rotten Tomatoes and 18 Emmy Awards, this historical drama is already setting records. The series dives deep into religion, cultural adaptation, and power struggles, with a stellar cast. It’s clear Sh?gun could easily win Best TV Series: Drama.
Best Actor in a Drama Series
PureWow’s pick: Hiroyuki Sanada (Sh?gun)
Last year’s winner: Kieran Culkin (Succession)
Hiroyuki Sanada’s portrayal of Toranaga in Sh?gun is nothing short of extraordinary. He brings depth, charisma, and a quiet intensity to the role of a 17th-century warlord. Critics are raving, and it’s hard to imagine anyone else taking home the award in this category.
Best Actress in a Drama Series
PureWow’s pick: Anna Sawai (Sh?gun)
Last year’s winner: Sarah Snook (Succession)
Anna Sawai’s performance as Toda in Sh?gun is a masterclass in subtlety. She perfectly balances strength with vulnerability, making her portrayal unforgettable. Sawai’s poise and emotional depth are undeniable, and she could very well take home the Globe.
Best TV Series: Musical or Comedy
PureWow’s pick: Abbott Elementary
Last year’s winner: The Bear
Abbott Elementary continues to steal the show. The ABC sitcom has won hearts with its charming cast and witty commentary on the education system. With multiple Golden Globe wins already under its belt, it’s safe to say this series will likely add another trophy to its collection.
Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy Series
PureWow’s pick: Ted Danson (A Man on the Inside)
Last year’s winner: Jeremy Allen White (The Bear)
Ted Danson is back with a bang in A Man on the Inside. From Cheers to The Good Place, Danson has proven himself a comedy legend. In his latest role as a retired professor turned amateur spy, he adds humor and depth, making him a front-runner for Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy Series.
Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy Series
PureWow’s pick: Jean Smart (Hacks)
Last year’s winner: Ayo Edebiri (The Bear)
Jean Smart has nailed her role as Deborah Vance in Hacks. Her performance as a Vegas icon reinventing herself is both hilarious and heartfelt. Fans can’t get enough of her portrayal, and it’s no surprise she’s earned multiple awards for it. I’m betting she’ll add another Golden Globe to her collection in January.
The Golden Globes are always full of surprises, and 2025 will be no exception. Keep your eyes peeled for these incredible performances to light up the stage!
