Once the clock hits January 1st, we're officially in Awards Season. It's a really exciting time in Hollywood because there seem to be screenings every night.
And there's nothing I love more than a screening with some apps and an open bar, where PR people are doing anything possible to ensure their clients get votes. Two major ceremonies define the season: The Golden Globes and The Academy Awards.
Despite having some crossover, these two shows have a lot of stark differences, which we'll unpack today.
Let's dive in.
1. The Voting Pool is Relatively Small
Shogun
via FX
As of 2024, there are As of 2024, there are 9,905 voting members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS). Those are the people who decide who wins what at the Oscars.
We have a whole breakdown of how Oscar voting works.
When it comes to the Golden Globes, 300 entertainment journalists from 75 countries vote. That's a much smaller number of people, meaning that schmoozing matters. A lot more on that later.
2. TV Has a Place
Tyler James Williams\u00a0and Quinta Brunson in Abbott Elementary
via Disney/Gilles Mingasson
The Academy Awards only celebrate Film. They leave the TV awards to the Emmys. The Golden Globes covers both TV and film.
It's fun to see everyone sitting together, and the mix can be pretty fun. It also gives the hosts more to joke about.
But celebrating one singular thing feels much more special to me.
3. Career Impact
The Substance
via Mubi
While the Golden Globes are a huge achievement that should be celebrated, winning one doesn't have as big of an impact on your career as winning an Academy Award.
The reason is that the academy is voted on by your peers, and many more of them. the globes are just the opinion of a few hundred journalists, so while a Globe win might predict an Academy Award, an Oscar can set you up for life.
4. Campaigning
Los Frikis
via Lord Miller
The Academy Awards have a strict "no campaigning" policy. While some people network behind the scenes, it's much less in your face. FYC, or For Your Consideration, campaigns are run to make sure voting members see the movies in question.
The Golden Globes have way more naked campaigning. there are brunches, gift bags, and there are so many allegations of bribery and grift in the past it's kind of hilarious.
5. Star Focus
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
via Warner Bros.
Both Awards shows are focused on stars, but the Golden Globes has a reputation for just awarding the biggest stars possible. They love having the biggest celebrities and biggest names in the audience.
The Academy Awards still feels like they go for what they think is best. You could be a nobody and get a nomination if your work is great and appreciated.
Summing Up Golden Globes vs. Oscars
At the end of the day, this is a fun season that should be celebrated. The awards shows are different, but they each give us a night of glamour and accolades that the industry greatly deserves.
Let me know what you think in the comments.
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