The 31st Screen Actors Guild Awards showcased remarkable talent and resilience, with “Conclave,” a gripping thriller centered on the election of a new pope, receiving the award for Best Motion Picture Cast. In television, the drama series “Shōgun,” which offers a grand depiction of feudal Japan, took home four trophies, including Outstanding Ensemble in a Drama Series, while “Only Murders in the Building” secured the award for Outstanding Ensemble in a Comedy Series.
Kristen Bell, the emcee for the evening, honored the strength of Los Angeles residents as the city continues to recover from this year’s significant wildfires. She acknowledged the challenges faced by the community and expressed heartfelt gratitude to first responders. The event was not without its hiccups, as technical difficulties interrupted various moments, including Jane Fonda’s acceptance speech for her lifetime achievement award.
“Shōgun” stars Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai were recognized for their performances, winning Outstanding Lead Actor and Actress in a Drama Series. Both actors have been significant figures during award season, with Sanada sharing how surreal the experience felt.
While no film claimed multiple awards, “Conclave’s” recent wins, including the SAG Award and a BAFTA, indicate its strong momentum heading into the Oscars. It emerges amidst a highly competitive awards season where films like “Anora” have also received critical acclaim, having won accolades from the Directors Guild and Producers Guild.
Demi Moore and Timothée Chalamet won accolades for leading performances in “The Substance” and “A Complete Unknown,” respectively. Moore’s victory is particularly poignant as she stages a comeback after years of navigating industry challenges, while Chalamet articulated his ambition of pursuing greatness amid a vibrant Hollywood landscape.
Colin Farrell and Jessica Gunning claimed victories in the Television Movie or Limited Series categories for “The Penguin” and “Baby Reindeer,” emphasizing the caliber of performances showcased throughout the night. Gunning, who portrayed a stalker, expressed gratitude for the recognition, while Farrell highlighted the importance of creativity and maintaining a childlike wonder in the craft.
The evening also included calls to action, with Fonda urging her peers to remain vocal about social issues and to support vulnerable communities amid current political tensions. This reinforced the SAG Awards’ commitment to celebrating not just artistry, but also the larger impact of the entertainment industry on society.
Overall, the SAG Awards represented a blend of celebration, solidarity, and gratitude that reflects the ongoing work of both performers and the communities they inhabit. This event showcases the resilience of the film and television industry, as they continue to uplift and inspire, even in challenging times.