A Barbenheimer-filled Golden Globes appears inevitable, but how many nominations will these two summer blockbusters scoop up?
Warner Bros’ “Barbie” is projected to dominate the nominations set to be unveiled on Monday, Dec. 11, with an estimated nine nods, including a mention for best picture in the comedy or musical category. Notably, Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, and America Ferrera are expected to secure three acting nominations. If the film achieves this grand total, it would tie for the second-most nominations in Globes history, standing alongside Bob Fosse’s “Cabaret” (1972). Holding the all-time record with 11 nominations is Robert Altman’s “Nashville.”
Expected to follow closely in the tally is Universal Pictures’ “Oppenheimer,” predicted to secure eight nominations, including best picture in the drama category, as well as nods for Christopher Nolan’s direction and three acting mentions for Cillian Murphy, Robert Downey Jr, and Emily Blunt.
Read: Variety’s Awards Circuit for the latest Oscars predictions in all categories.
The Globes are embracing a new era with the Hollywood Foreign Press Association now disbanded and several problematic members expelled. Traditionally second to the Oscars regarding TV ratings, the annual awards season staple aims to regain its past glory under new leadership by creating memorable and enjoyable events.
The expansion of nominees – from five to six in every category – offers greater opportunities for acting, film, and television contenders vying for recognition from the Film and TV Academy. Additionally, two new categories aim to celebrate cinematic box office achievements and stand-up comedy performances. Each category will nominate six contenders, except the new best cinematic and box office achievement (reserved for movies grossing over $150 million, with at least $100 million in the U.S.). The former category will feature eight nominees.
In stand-up, Chris Rock’s “Selective Outrage” for Netflix could likely secure a spot, joined by fellow streaming comedians such as John Mulaney (“Baby J”), Tom Segura (“Sledgehammer”), and Wanda Sykes (“I’m an Entertainer”). Max (formerly HBO) is also expected to shine with Sarah Silverman’s (“Someone You Love”), Marc Maron’s (“From Bleak to Dark”), and Marlon Wayans’ (“God Loves Me”) performances.
On the series front, Max’s “Succession,” Apple’s “Ted Lasso,” and Netflix’s “Beef” stand strong with multiple nominations. New shows like Disney’s “Ashoka” or Apple’s “Lessons in Chemistry” might break through, especially with leading stars like Rosario Dawson and Brie Larson. Surprises are always possible, leaving room for inclusions like Lily Rose-Depp or Rachel Sennott from HBO’s “The Idol,” despite mixed reviews.
Read the final predictions below.
Read: Variety’s Awards Circuit for the latest SAG Awards predictions
Variety Awards Circuit section is the home for all awards news and related content throughout the year, featuring the following: the official predictions for the upcoming Oscars, Emmys, Grammys and Tony Awards ceremonies, curated by Variety senior awards editor Clayton Davis. The prediction pages reflect the current standings in the race and do not reflect personal preferences for any individual contender. As other formal (and informal) polls suggest, competitions are fluid and subject to change based on buzz and events. Predictions are updated every Thursday.
Visit the prediction pages for the respective ceremonies via the links below:
OSCARS | EMMYS | GRAMMYS | TONYS
Updated: Dec. 9, 2023