Conclave Triumphs as SAG Awards Ignite Oscars Buzz

With the Oscars rapidly approaching, Conclave's victories and strong individual performances shift the awards season landscape.

Conclave emerged as the standout victor at the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards on Sunday, claiming the prestigious best ensemble cast award just days before the Oscars. This recognition followed the film's success at the Baftas, creating excitement around its prospects as the international awards season reaches a critical juncture. The SAG Awards also saw notable wins for Demi Moore and Timothée Chalamet, both of whom have seen their chances for Oscar gold bolstered.

Ralph Fiennes, who accepted the award on behalf of Conclave, expressed gratitude towards director Edward Berger for his intuitive guidance throughout the filming process. In a heartfelt moment, Fiennes relayed the cast's well wishes for Pope Francis, who has recently been hospitalized.

The SAG Awards, voted on by actors for their peers, place a spotlight on the significance of community in the acting profession. Conclave, a movie that unveils the maneuverings of cardinals in Rome, is now seen as a formidable contender in the best picture race, challenging titles like Emilia Pérez and The Brutalist, which have stolen the spotlight at earlier award shows.

In the acting categories, Demi Moore received accolades for her role in the body horror film The Substance, marking a significant moment in a fiercely competitive best actress race. Moore expressed her gratitude while reflecting on her beginnings in the acting industry, crediting the SAG card she obtained at age 15 as a pivotal moment in her life.

Meanwhile, Timothée Chalamet surprised many by taking home the best actor award for his portrayal of Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown. Chalamet shared insights into the extensive commitment he dedicated to this role over five years, expressing that this accolade provides him with motivation to continue pursuing greatness.

Kieran Culkin, awarded best supporting actor for A Real Pain, humorously thanked the sister of his director for recommending him for the role, while Zoe Saldaña continued her winning streak for best supporting actress with her performance in Emilia Pérez.

In the television categories, the drama Shogun swept major awards, with notable wins for Anna Sawai and Hiroyuki Sanada, illustrating the evolving landscape of representation in media. In a lighter moment, Only Murders in the Building secured the best comedy series title, much to the surprise of the cast.

The evening concluded with a moving speech from Jane Fonda, who was honored with the lifetime achievement award. Fonda emphasized the power of acting to ignite discussion and promote community solidarity, underscoring the importance of unity in these tumultuous times.

As the SAG Awards set the stage for the Oscars, the potential for surprises looms large, making this year's race one of the most exhilarating yet.