Women Win at the Critics Choice Awards

On February 7, 2025, the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica was alive with excitement for the 30th Critics Choice Awards. Hosted by Chelsea Handler, the event celebrated the year's remarkable achievements in film and television after a brief delay due to wildfires.

"Anora," a heartwarming 2024 comedy-drama directed by Sean Baker, earned Best Picture. The film tells the vibrant story of Anora Mikheeva, played by Mikey Madison, a spirited woman from Brooklyn who marries Vanya Zakharov, the son of a Russian oligarch. Their whirlwind romance faces challenges when Vanya's parents oppose the marriage. Critics praise its modern-day Cinderella story and Madison's standout performance.

Demi Moore won Best Actress for her role in "The Substance," directed by Coralie Fargeat. This 2024 body horror film features Moore as Elisabeth Sparkle, a fading star navigating the black-market drug scene to reclaim her youth. Premiering at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, the film garnered acclaim, with critics praising Moore's performance as her career's best.

Zoe Saldaña's "Emilia Pérez" performance won her Best Supporting Actress. Directed by Jacques Audiard, the film features her as Rita, who embarks on a profound journey with a gender-transitioning Mexican drug lord. In her acceptance speech, Zoe expressed heartfelt gratitude to her collaborators and fans, calling the win an "incredible honor." A well-deserved recognition!

Maisy Stella won Best Young Actor/Actress for her role in the coming-of-age comedy-drama "My Old Ass." Directed by Megan Park, the film follows an 18-year-old girl who meets her 39-year-old self, played by Aubrey Plaza, during a transformative mushroom trip. Premiering at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, "My Old Ass" offers a fresh take on self-discovery. Maisy's impressive performance is a key milestone in her career. In an interview with Who What Wear, she expressed her excitement: "It's a crazy feeling waking up to messages... It is real! It happened!"

Coralie Fargeat won Best Original Screenplay for her body horror film "The Substance." Starring Demi Moore as Elisabeth Sparkle—a celebrity seeking youth through a risky drug—the film has been lauded for its satirical take on societal views of women's bodies and aging.

Stéphanie Guillon, Frédérique Arguello, and Pierre-Olivier Persin won Best Hair and Makeup for The Substance. The trio used groundbreaking practical effects and prosthetics to depict the protagonist's journey. Pierre-Olivier focused on organic designs, and Stéphanie and Frédérique harmonized hair and makeup with the film's narrative. Their work significantly contributed to the film's acclaim and numerous awards.

"Emilia Pérez" was honored as Best Foreign Language Film for France. Directed by Jacques Audiard, this film has received critical acclaim and multiple accolades.

"El Mal" from "Emilia Pérez" won Best Original Song. Clément Ducol, Camille, and director Jacques Audiard co-wrote it, and it features performances by Zoe Saldaña, Karla Sofía Gascón, and Camille.

"Shōgun" won Best Drama Series. This historical drama immerses viewers in early 17th-century Japan, following English navigator John Blackthorne as he navigates the complexities of feudal life. The series has been praised for its authentic representation of Japanese culture, featuring a predominantly Japanese cast and a rich use of the language. Notably, "Shōgun" also presents strong female characters, like Toda Mariko, portrayed by Anna Sawai, who challenge traditional gender roles and highlight female empowerment. The commitment to historical accuracy has significantly contributed to the show's critical acclaim, marking it as a notable achievement in television history.

Kathy Bates won the Best Actress in a Drama Series award for her performance in the reboot of "Matlock." She portrays a clever and dedicated attorney, earning praise for her depth and authenticity. "Matlock" has received acclaim for its engaging storytelling and strong performances, particularly Bates' portrayal, and continues to capture audience hearts in the legal drama genre.

Moeka Hoshi captured hearts by winning the Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series award for her portrayal of Usami Fuji in Shōgun. Critics praised her performance for its depth and authenticity, which significantly contributed to the show's acclaim. Shōgun is celebrated for its storytelling and character portrayals, with Hoshi's performance standing out in the drama genre.

"Hacks" won the award for Best Comedy Series. The show captivates with its clever humor and rich character arcs. "Hacks" continues to captivate audiences with its sharp writing and compelling character development, solidifying its place as a standout in the comedy genre.

Jean Smart won Best Actress in a Comedy Series as Deborah Vance in "Hacks." Smart's portrayal of the seasoned comedian navigating the evolving entertainment industry has been widely acclaimed for its depth and authenticity.

Hannah Einbinder won the Best Supporting Actress award in a Comedy Series for her role as Ava Daniels in "Hacks." Her portrayal of a young comedy writer navigating a dynamic partnership has received rave reviews. In her acceptance speech, she expressed gratitude and solidarity, stating, "Trans Lives Matter," highlighting her commitment to advocacy and representation in entertainment.

"Baby Reindeer" won Best Limited Series. This British black comedy-drama thriller by Richard Gadd premiered on Netflix to rave reviews. Its unique blend of dark humor and poignant drama sets it apart from other series like "Disclaimer" and "Masters of the Air."

Cristin Milioti won Best Actress in a Limited Series or Movie Made for Television for portraying Sofia Falcone in "The Penguin." Her performance has been widely acclaimed for its depth and complexity, contributing significantly to the series' success.

Jessica Gunning won Best Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie Made for Television for her powerful performance as Martha in "Baby Reindeer."

"Ali Wong: Single Lady" won Best Comedy Special. This Netflix special showcases Wong's sharp wit and insightful humor, solidifying her status as a leading figure in stand-up comedy.