A Somber Golden Globes 2010

The 67th Annual Golden Globes are being held at 5 pm today at the Beverly Hills Hotel in Los Angeles. Hollywood royalty like Merly Streep, Sandra Bullock, Morgan Freeman, George Clooney and Matt Damon are all scheduled to walk the red carpet but it's bound to be a somber event in light of the tragic events in Haiti. This presents a great dilemma to the Globe's organizers and the HIFP: How does one rejoice over make-believe and play-acting and play dress up in your indulgent designer gowns and diamonds (thereby flaunting your wealth and abundance) when so many are facing a harsh reality and experiencing intense loss or lack? The contrast is so sharp that it is almost surreal.

Things aren't all bad though, many Hollywood stars have pledged millions and they are organizing a telethon to raised more funds at the end of the month. Unfortunately I haven't heard any stars (except Haitian-Americans) thank God or even ask for his help, saving grace and mercy on behalf of the people of Haiti. I was going to head down to the Golden Globes with a large sign that said "GOD, Save Haiti!" on one side and with a cross as the "t" in Haiti and "Pray for Haiti!" on the other side. I planned to lift it high in the air as the stars walked the red carpet but I realize appealing to them may be futile. Stars tend to be caught up in their own glory, status, wealth and accomplishments and it is hard for them to acknowledge The Most High God. If they do acknowledge God's existence, they say that He is mean to have caused death and destruction in the lives of people already downtrodden, like in the case of Hurricane Katrina and the situation in Haiti.

Case in point: Brad Pitt's recent statements that he "doesn't believe in God" reflects as much. By all reports, Brad Pitt donated millions to Katrina and worked selflessly for New Orlean's recovery, which was a blessing. He plans to do the same for Haiti and they could sure use the help. Brad Pitt and his mate/wife? Angelina Jolie have great influence in the U.S. and around the world so many will probably follow their lead and donate or volunteer to help Haiti. However, Brad Pitt still has no regard for the Lord and it's doubtful that he is praying for any of these victims.

And he's not alone. For my 2 and a half years in L.A. I've seen and heard from Hollywood stars, writers and major "talent" up close and rarely is their a mention or concern about God. Most feel it's what the industry requires and they are doing their jobs while others feel that Christians who believe the Bible are either uneducated or judgemental. Others want to look cool or hip so they expouse buddha, other eastern alternative religions or life-styles, or scientology over the Lord. Some do wear crosses but paired with dark clothing and tattoos with satanic references to keep their "street creds". It seems that Hollywood isn't "big" on God but thankfully He is "big" on them. I am praying that that God uses this same Hollywood star power and resources for His glory. Meanwhile, I'm going to stay home and pray. I may watch the Golden Globes telecast on NBC at 5 pm PST 8 pm EST and maybe Hollywood will surprise me.

Update 1/17/10 3:30 pm
It just started raining in LA so I tuned in to the Golden Globes red carpet arrivals to see the starlets with wet hair and damp gowns and there are umbrellas everywhere. All the stars are wearing lapel ribbons in red layered above blue and yellow ribbons(the colors of the Haitian flag) to show solidarity with the Haitian people and many are expressing their sympathy and support for Haiti relief. Everyone seems to be trying to make the best of the wet weather but it feels like the event will be somber indeed.

Update 1/17/10 6:00 pm

I tuned in to the GG for a moment:

The tone of the show seems to be a bit subdued but still good. The stars are seated in intimate settings arond small tables and they can be seen eating, drinking and conversing with each other. Some stars express sadness at the great loss of life in Haiti and many presenters and winners make frequent appeals for donations to a Haitian Relief fund at NBC.com. George Clooney looks especially affected and could be seen booking other stars to appear for the Hope For Haiti telethon on January 22.

As much as the tone seemed subdued, there were some very funny moments.

THE HOST:
Ricky Gervais is a wonderful host. He is poking fun at his fellow stars(past scandals -Mel Gibson), the Hollywood Foriegn Press and the Golden Globes(selling awards)and NBC (Conan v.s. Jay Leno).

Other Best jokes:

Mad Men winner-- Bar Mitzvah joke in answer to Drew Barrymore's comment

Fashion:

All the women look a bit under stated but classy. No obvious misses.

Best Dressed

Jeniffer Garner
Sophia Loren
Sandra Bullock
Drew Barrymore (except for the sparkly crystal porcupine attached to it)