Monday, January 16, 2012

My Addiction


     I guess the first step is to admit I have an addiction. My name is Juli and I am addicted to . . . award shows. I feel better now. Whew, a load off my shoulders.
    
     In order to feed this addiction, I watched the Golden Globe Awards last night. Not just the ceremony, but also the pre-awards red carpet event. I just love watching the interviews, the beautiful gowns, the dapper tuxedos and the display of nerves on the actors which proves to me they are just like us, except attending a grown-up prom in front of millions of people. I enjoy seeing my favorite actors outside of their roles and just being "human." We sometimes forget how nervous some of these celebrities may be feeling attending these events: excited for what is to come, perhaps anxious to see an idol across the room. Seasoned actors having attended these events in the past know what to expect. Some enjoy it, using it as an opportunity to mingle with old friends while a few may be there to just get through the obligatory appearance and go home after one drink at the after-party (if they even attend one). Some presenters are praying to make it to the mic without tripping on the stage and being able to read the teleprompter without looking like a fool. Some want to loosen up with their peers at the bar and nosh on fine foods, but at the same time, be able to banter easily with colleagues and other esteemed actors they admire and respect. Some enjoy the attention bestowed upon them while others may be new to this activity, therefore, navigating unchartered waters. Some never get used to the attention and try to shed their inner-introvert with a smile and a handshake. I just love analyzing the psych that surrounds these events. The Golden Globes is a more laid-back version of The Academy Awards (Oscars). Everyone appears more relaxed, seated with their colleagues at tables in a smaller setting rather than the formal seating arrangement of a huge venue such as the Kodak Theatre. I could dedicate a whole blog entry on The Academy Awards, but we’ll wait until after February 26th.
    
     I was stoked to see one of my favorite actresses, Jessica Lange, win her Best Supporting Actress in a Supporting Role/Drama award for "American Horror Story." She definitely deserved it. What a class act. I have admired her since I saw her in "King Kong" (1976) with Jeff Bridges. I read the book, too, which included photo footage of the movie within the pages. I admired her work again in one of her more haunting performances in "Sweet Dreams" (1985) in which she portrayed Patsy Cline – she disappeared into that role and was truly Patsy. I credit Ms. Lange for my interest back then in Country music and Patsy Cline songs.
    
     As a host, I thought Ricky Gervais knocked it out of the park. Ricky is like sushi to me: not everyone can stomach it, but if you enjoy it, it’s delicious. I personally love Ricky’s humor and the fact that he just doesn’t give a shit what people think. Much like how I feel most of the time. If you don’t want to know the truth, don’t ask. He had some great one-liners and poked a lot of fun at people, but he didn’t go too far. It was enjoyable to watch him onstage this year vs. last year’s painful performance. No one’s panties seemed to get twisted up this year – or so I thought I could see on the TV screen. I especially loved his dig at Jodie Foster’s beaver and she was a great sport. I did cringe a little when I realized later in the show that her sons had attended the ceremony and heard the dig (ew). Seth Rogan almost had me spit out my cheese/cracker when he revealed his attempt to hide his erection standing alongside Kate Beckinsale. Classic. I appreciate raunchy humor and it’s more likely to occur at the Golden Globes vs. the Oscars. Love it! And Jane Fonda? She looked phenomenal in that dress.
    
     Looking forward to the Oscars (Feb 26th) and the Primetime Emmy Awards (Sept 23rd)!

No comments:

Post a Comment