Earlier this month, award season was kicked off with the 81st Golden Globe Awards. The Golden Globes are a forum for actors, comics and singers to be recognized for their work in film and television. This particular year, though, was busier than most. With some of Hollywood’s biggest stars in attendance, the biggest shows and movies of the year being recognized, and an unfortunate side of some problematic jokes, this night was one to talk about.
Hosted by comedian Jo Koy, the night was kicked off with a slew of thorny jokes in his monologue, specifically in regard to the women nominated and films telling largely feminine stories. Everyone knows that 2023 was the year of “Barbenheimer,” the combined viewing of two movies from wildly different genres, yet being celebrated together. However, in his monologue, Koy regarded “Oppenheimer” as “based on the 721-page Pulitzer Prize-winning book about the Manhattan Project” while reducing “Barbie” to a movie about a doll with “big boobies.” Later in his monologue he noted Taylor Swift’s attendance and compared it to the coverage she received attending NFL games. The audience was unappreciative of these jokes, causing Koy to have a tantrum on stage. He complained that he didn’t write these jokes and it’s not his fault they’re not funny; not particularly a good look for him.
Audiences at home were equally unhappy with these sexist jokes and took to the internet to voice their concerns. The problem isn’t necessarily the jokes themselves, but instead what they symbolize: women, no matter who they are, are going to be pushed down and made fun of for the same things men get praised for. Regardless of the achievements women have made, these “unfortunate” jokes are always going to be there to diminish their accomplishments. In an era where the entertainment industry is increasingly striving for more inclusivity and gender equality, these jokes are a reminder of the progress there is still left to make.
However, the rest of the night seemed to go in an upswing, and focused on actually celebrating the stories of the past year. The awards include two new categories celebrating stand up comedy specials and box office achievement. The winners were Ricky Gervais and “Barbie,” respectively. Including these two awards creates a more well-rounded award ceremony and appropriately appreciates all sides of the entertainment industry.
The big sweepers in television of the night were “The Bear” and “Beef.” As two newer shows on the scene, they have both been able to grow cult followings and fans were happy to see these two shows recognized. As for film, “Oppenheimer” took home awards for best director, best actor and best original score. “Barbie” was recognized for best original song for “What Was I Made For” by Billie Eilish and box office achievement.
Aside from all the awards and controversy of the night, a big takeaway is the fashion. Every celebrity stylist stepped up their game for this year’s Globes, making the red carpet was a moment to be remembered. Margot Robbie wore another Barbie recreation, a take on “Superstar Barbie” by Armani. Swift donned a custom green Gucci dress, leaving many fans wondering if the color is an easter egg for an upcoming rerecording. Either way, she looked incredible. Other stand out outfits were worn by Hunter Schafer in Prada, America Ferrera in Dolce and Gabbana and Jeremy Allen White in Calvin Klein, perhaps a nod to his viral ad for them made earlier this year.
This year’s Golden Globes were certainly a night to be remembered, hopefully for the awards and looks, and not so much for the problematic jokes.
