eld on November 17 at the prestigious Ray Dolby Ball-room at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles, the 2024 Governors Awards celebrated the power of storytelling, its creators, and the tireless efforts of those working behind the scenes. Often dubbed the “honorary Oscars,” this year’s event marked a notable shift. For the first time, no actor was honored.

Instead, the honorees were those unsung individuals whose contri-butions are essential but often go unnoticed.

This evolution underscores Holly-wood’s growing recognition of the collaborative artistry required to create films.

Quincy Jones

Legendary composer and producer Quincy Jones was posthumously honored with a moving tribute that elicited a standing ovation. Jamie Foxx introduced the segment, setting an emotional tone, while Jennifer Hudson delivered a poignant musical per-formance to honor Jones’s ground-breaking legacy. Actor and director Rashida Jones, accepting the award on behalf of her father, shared a heartfelt speech he had prepared, emphasizing how storytelling through film and music transcends barriers and unites humanity.

Michael G. Wilson and
Barbara Broccoli

The producers of the James Bond franchise, Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, were presented with the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award. Daniel Craig, the most recent and arguably most successful actor to portray James Bond since the late Sean Connery, presented the award, lauding their dedication to cinematic innovation and their unparalleled ability to captivate audiences world-wide.

Richard Curtis

Renowned for his screenwriting credits in Bridget Jones’s Diary and Notting Hill, as well as directing beloved films like Love Actually, Richard Curtis was honored not only for his filmmaking legacy but also for his humanitarian endeavors. Hugh Grant, a close friend and frequent collaborator, delivered a humorous yet touching tribute, showcasing Curtis’s wit. In his acceptance speech, Curtis urged filmmakers to harness the power of storytelling to inspire meaningful social change, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.

Juliet Taylor

Without casting director Juliet Taylor, films like Terms of Endearment, Dangerous Liaisons, Sleepless in Seattle, The Interpreter, Blue Jasmine, Schindler’s List, and countless others would not be as memorable as they are. She has a knack for selecting the right actors for the right roles. While the genius of a skilled casting director may often be overlooked, it was refreshing to see Hollywood recognizing such behind-the-scenes game-changers. Juliet Taylor was presented with an hono-rary Oscar by Nicole Kidman, who praised Taylor’s unparalleled ability to cast both established and lesser-known actors.

Red Carpet style

The Governors Awards red carpet continues to set fashion trends that often define the upcoming season. This year, celebrities brought timeless elegance, bold statements, and under-stated chic to the forefront. Here are some of the standout appearances…

Angelina Jolie and son,
Knox Jolie-Pitt

Angelina Jolie, 49, channeled old-school Hollywood glamour in a ‘70s-inspired empire-waist gown in gold and cream by The Kit Vintage. Paired with open-toe sandals, diamond jewelry, and natural makeup, Jolie’s look won hearts everywhere, from social media to magazines and fashion reports. Her son, Knox, 16, mirrored her elegance in a classic tuxedo and an edgy buzz cut.

Kate Winslet

Kate Winslet showcased a modern twist on the red-carpet fashion with a tailored black pantsuit featuring intricate white floral appliqués and ornate detailing. If anyone can channel the power of a suit, it is certainly Kate Winslet.

Jennifer Lawrence

Radiating her signature glow, Jennifer Lawrence elevated maternity fashion in a custom chocolate-brown Bottega Veneta gown inspired by the Resort 2025 collection. Gold accents along the neckline and artful gathers over her baby bump, paired with matching Bottega Veneta earrings and a classic gold Bottega Veneta Knot clutch, completed her look.

Nicole Kidman and
Demi Moore

Nicole Kidman turned heads in a black Celine gown, known as “The Jewelry Dress,” distinguished by an emb-ellished neckline and a keyhole design. A vintage Omega Art Nouveau wrist-watch encrusted with diamonds added an exquisite vintage flair to her sleek silhouette. On the other hand, Demi Moore looked effortlessly stylish in a Givenchy Fall 2024 bustier gown with a flowing train, accessorized with Sartoro Geneve emerald jewelry and sleek Aquazzura heels. Substance and style from two of Hollywood’s biggest names.

Daniel Craig

Daniel Craig evoked his James Bond persona in a sharp double-breasted tuxedo by Loewe. Adding a personal touch with Loewe Groove sunglasses and an exclusive Omega watch, Craig made a suave statement.

Elizabeth Olsen

Elizabeth Olsen embraced minimalist chic with a Givenchy Fall 2024 dress featuring a draped waistline. Reza jewelry and Kurt Geiger Bond pumps completed her look.

Rita Wilson and Tom Hanks

Rita Wilson dazzled in a sequined silver gown, finishing her look with soft curls and minimal accessories. Tom Hanks chose a tailored black suit and a silver tie. Picture perfect? You bet!

Pamela Anderson

Pamela Anderson continues to emb-race minimalist chic look and chose a black high-neck Giorgio Armani dress. Her undertstated makeup and loosely tied back hair echoed a redefined aesthetic, and we are all for it.

A night to remember

The 2024 Governors Awards celebrated the art of filmmaking with heartfelt tributes, inspiring speeches, and stunning fashion. The event highlighted the transformative power of cinema and the collaborative efforts that bring its magic to life.