The 30th Annual Critic’s Choice Awards Honors Artistry and the Recent Wildfires

The 30th annual Critics Choice Awards took stage at the Barker Hanger in Santa Monica, California on February 7th. The Critics Choice Awards honor the most notable works in film and television selected by critics, but this year was even more special. 

It wasn’t only filled with special moments for artists, but it honored the fierce wildfires that took place in the Los Angeles area just a month prior.

The Awards were hosted by Chelsea Handler for the third year in a row, who acknowledged the work of Los Angeles firefighters and in fact led a standing ovation, encouraging audience members and viewers to donate to those affected.

“I would like to address the devastation that unfolded here in Los Angeles in recent weeks,” says Handler as stars from across the room begin to give a standing ovation. “What we saw and the scope of loss has been almost impossible to imagine.”

To add humor, Handler of course tied in remarks as well in her monologue, covering topics from movies like Wicked, It Ends With Us, and even herself.

“This makes it my third year hosting… which makes this my second longest relationship,” Handler says.

Moving forward, awards were given to remarkable actors, artists, and more throughout the night.

Anora, directed by Sean Baker, won the award for ‘Best Picture.’ This was not highly anticipated, due to the fact that it was nominated in this category alongside Emilia Perez, which was the film nominated for the most Oscars this year.

Baker states in his winning speech that this award was, “incredibly unexpected… [his] imposter syndrome is skyrocketing right now.”

One of the most notable awards, ‘Best Director,’ was awarded to Jon M. Chu, who directed  the movie adaptation of the musical ‘Wicked.’ This award however was shocking as well, especially since Chu was not nominated for this category for the Oscars. 

Chu was beyond grateful, and expressed his gratitude in his speech by saying, “I love directing. We get to tell stories for our life… I just wanted to make movies… I feel very privileged to be here… to be telling you these stories with all of you out here.” Chu was joined at the ceremony with cast members and crew, including Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. 

Other awards include ‘Best Actress,’ which was given to Demi Moore for her role in ‘The Substance.’ In fact, Moore was given her first acting award ever for this same role this year, at the Golden Globes.

Best Actor was awarded to Adrian Brody, for his role in ‘The Brutalist,’ which he also received an Oscar nomination this year for ‘Best Actor.’ 

The 30th annual Critics Choice Awards were filled with many celebrations and gratitude towards the Los Angeles community, allowing these awards to not only recognize the talented artists in the room, but to acknowledge the resilience and community that was built during the West Coast tragedy.