Who’s Nominated? Breaking Down the Top Contenders
The race for this year’s top honors in film and television is heating up, with a diverse slate of nominees vying for glory. On the film side, Wicked leads the pack with an impressive five nominations, solidifying its position as a major contender. It will compete for the guild’s prestigious best ensemble award alongside A Complete Unknown, a biopic about Bob Dylan with four nominations, Emilia Pérez and Anora, each with three nominations, and Conclave with two. These films represent a wide range of genres and styles, from the musical spectacle of Wicked to the intimate storytelling of Emilia Pérez.
In the best actor category, the competition is equally fierce. Adrien Brody (The Brutalist), Timothée Chalamet (A Complete Unknown), Daniel Craig (Queer), Colman Domingo (Sing Sing), and Ralph Fiennes (Conclave) will all vie for the top prize. Each of these actors has delivered standout performances that have resonated with audiences and critics alike. On the flip side, the best actress category is shaping up to be one of the most compelling races of the season. Pamela Anderson (The Last Showgirl), Cynthia Erivo (Wicked), Karla Sofía Gascón (Emilia Pérez), Mikey Madison (Anora), and Demi Moore (The Substance) are all in the running, each bringing a unique perspective and depth to their roles.
The TV Contenders: Can Shogun Continue Its Dominance?
When it comes to television, Shogun is once again proving to be a force to be reckoned with. Fresh from its Emmys and Golden Globe victories, the series has secured five nominations, cementing its status as a critical and audience favorite. However, it’s not the only show in the running. Season 3 of FX’s The Bear, a critically acclaimed dramedy set in the chaotic world of a Chicago restaurant, has picked up four nominations, while Netflix’s political thriller The Diplomat trails closely with three. These nominations highlight the incredible diversity of storytelling on television, from the historical epic of Shogun to the gritty realism of The Bear.
Jane Fonda: A Legend’s Lifetime Achievement
This year, the guild will also honor the incomparable Jane Fonda with its lifetime achievement award. At 87, Fonda is a Hollywood icon whose career spans over six decades. She has already earned two Oscars for Best Actress for her roles in Klute (1972) and Coming Home (1979), as well as an Emmy for her work in the TV movie The Dollmaker (1984). The lifetime achievement award is a fitting tribute to her enduring talent, dedication, and impact on the industry. Previous recipients of this prestigious honor include Frank Sinatra, Sidney Poitier, Carol Burnett, and Barbra Streisand, placing Fonda in the company of true Hollywood legends.
The Best Actress Showdown: Experience vs. Youth
One of the most anticipated races this awards season is in the best actress category, where seasoned veterans and rising stars are going head-to-head. Demi Moore, who has been garnering attention for her haunting performance in The Substance, a body horror film about an aging actress obsessed with regaining her youth, is a strong contender. Moore’s momentum has been building since her viral acceptance speech at the Golden Globes, where she spoke candidly about being dismissed as a “popcorn actress” throughout her career.
However, Moore faces stiff competition from 25-year-old breakout star Mikey Madison, who has captivated audiences with her role in Anora. The juxtaposition of Moore’s decades-long career with Madison’s fresh face adds an extra layer of intrigue to this race. Will voters lean toward the established star’s raw, emotional performance, or will they be swept up by the charm and vitality of the younger actress? This showdown is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats until the winners are announced.
The Battle for Supporting Actress: Talent and Controversy
The supporting actress category is also shaping up to be a thrilling competition, filled with both talent and a dash of controversy. Zoe Saldaña, who plays a savvy lawyer in Emilia Pérez, has been on a winning streak, taking home every major Oscar precursor award. However, her success has been somewhat overshadowed by the ongoing controversy surrounding her co-star, Karla Sofía Gascón, whose old tweets have sparked backlash. This has raised questions about whether the film’s director, Jacques Audiard, and Saldaña herself might be impacted by the fallout.
Meanwhile, Wicked is making waves in the same category, thanks to Ariana Grande’s effervescent portrayal of Glinda, the bubbly witch. Although Grande’s performance has been well-received, Wicked itself has been a strong contender overall, leading all films in nominations at the SAG Awards. The combination of Saldaña’s.viewModel performance and the buzz around Wicked ensures that this race will be one to watch. Will Saldaña’s momentum carry her to victory, or will Grande’s charm and the broader success of Wicked tip the scales in her favor?
Notable Snubs and Surprises
As with any awards season, there are always a few surprises and snubs that keep the conversation lively. While Wicked and Shogun have dominated the nominations, some fans were disappointed to see certain films and shows left out of key categories. Similarly, the inclusion of certain newcomers has sparked excitement, proving once again that awards season is as much about discovery as it is about recognition of established talent.
These snubs and surprises also highlight the subjective nature of awards voting, where personal preferences and larger cultural narratives often play a role. As the countdown to the ceremony begins, all eyes will be on how these races unfold—and whether the front-runners can maintain their momentum or if upsets are in store. One thing is certain: this year’s awards season is shaping up to be one of the most unforgettable in recent memory.
With such a diverse and talented group of nominees, the stage is set for an exciting and unpredictable celebration of film and television. Whether you’re rooting for a seasoned legend, a rising star, or a cinematic masterpiece, there’s no denying that this awards season has something for everyone.
