Golden Globe Musings: Best Motion Picture - Comedy/Musical

The following represents some preliminary thoughts on Golden Globe contenders for the given category. Predictions will be narrowed and revised towards the end of November or the beginning of December. A reminder that the Globes are wildly unpredictable and that it is way to early to gauge the reception or awards potential of a number of the so-called “contenders” at this point. This category feels pretty locked up at this point.

The top contenders:
THE DARJEELING LIMITED
The Globes do not usually respond to Wes Anderson, and despite this movie being so good, I do not think it will change matters. There is very little competition this year, so the film could have a shot.

ENCHANTED
I do not think it looks good, but it does look quite intriguing and like the kind of fare that could fit in to this category. Entries like “Nicholas Nickleby” and “Bend It Like Beckham” have been recognized in the past and this could be a wonderfully weird comedy/musical/animation hybrid.

HAIRSPRAY
The Globes do love a good musical and this one did quite well with critics and audiences alike. I cannot imagine what would get in the way of this film getting nominated.

JUNO
I just saw this film and can pretty much assure that it will make it into the top five. The sharp script and excellent cast work stunningly together to make for an unforgettable comedy.

KNOCKED UP
It came out a while ago and was a hit. Previous Judd Apatow effort “The 40-Year-Old Virgin” did not make the cut, but this is a fairly empty year and I think “Knocked Up” should be fine.

MARGOT AT THE WEDDING
This film is from Noah Baumbach, whose last film “The Squid and the Whale” was nominated in this category. This looks a bit more bizarre and possibly a bit darker, so I am not as convinced that it will get in.

ONCE
At the beginning of this summer, this musical was a major hit. If Globe voters still remember it, it should score here and in the song categories.

THE SAVAGES
It does look terrific, and I see no reason why it should not make the cut, but at the moment I am feeling like it will merely be stars Hoffman and Linney who get nominated.

SWEENEY TODD
It looks like a load of fun, and it should be just weird enough to please Globe voters.

WAITRESS
It came out very early but received positive reviews. I would be happy to see it recognized, but I think it was too long ago.

Anything else? It would be great to see Superbad here, but I think it is just a bit too inappropriate. The Bucket List might be a success with Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, but I do think it will steer clear of any awards. Ryan Gosling should get all the buzz for Lars and the Real Girl. And Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium looks like too much of a kids’ movie.

Current predictions:
HAIRSPRAY
JUNO
KNOCKED UP
ONCE
SWEENEY TODD