The Palm Springs International Film Awards ceremony is a lavish affair, with over a thousand attendees dressing to the nines, creating a Palm Springs version of an Oscar moment. The actual awards ceremony is a two-hour extravaganza, featuring award recipients and presenters delighting the audience with anecdotes and reminiscences. Hosted by Mary Hart, the event provides a platform for laughter, tears, and notable moments.
Colman Domingo, who received the Spotlight Actor Award for his portrayal of Bayard Rustin in “Rustin,” shared a touching story about learning he had been chosen for the lead role. He vividly recalled the moment at L’Horizon in Palm Springs when he received the call from producer Bruce Cohen, expressing the honor of playing Bayard Rustin. Domingo’s gratitude was captured in a photo taken at 4:43 p.m., featuring him with raised arms against the backdrop of Palm Springs’ distinctive mountains.
Director Greta Gerwig, honored with the Director of the Year Award, revealed that her cinematic journey began with a childhood love for the Muppets. Recalling her parents taking her to see “The Muppets Take Manhattan” as her first film, Gerwig humorously shared her attempt to get into the screen, symbolizing her lifelong passion for filmmaking. Despite her diverse roles in the industry, directing has provided her with unparalleled satisfaction, thrill, and a mix of terror and euphoria.
Danielle Brooks, accepting the Spotlight Award for her role in the revival of “The Color Purple,” shared an anecdote about Oprah Winfrey. Brooks highlighted a pivotal moment when director Steven Spielberg told Winfrey, “You lose a pound, you lose the role.” The actress emphasized how such moments paved the way for curvy actresses like her, adding a humorous touch by mentioning Winfrey’s response—heading straight to Dairy Queen.
Robert Downey Jr. injected humor into the evening by presenting Cillian Murphy with the Desert Palm Achievement Award. Downey Jr. playfully revealed a note on a napkin that read “no Irish jokes,” earning major laughs from the audience.
Paul Giamatti, the recipient of the Icon Award, expressed both amusement and emotion during his acceptance speech. Joking about his place among icons like Marilyn Monroe and Jesus Christ, Giamatti reflected on the personal losses he faced 20 years ago and recently, emphasizing the unpredictability of life.
The night took an unexpected turn with the surprise appearance of Meryl Streep, who presented Carey Mulligan with the International Star Award, Actress. The unannounced nature of presenters added to the excitement, and Streep’s presence brought the room to a stunned murmur followed by a standing ovation. Mulligan, expressing her disbelief at Streep’s acceptance to introduce her, referred to Streep as her hero and shared the amusing moment when she shouted “Eff off!” in excitement.
In a room filled with stars, the Palm Springs Film Awards 2024 showcased moments of gratitude, humor, and genuine camaraderie, making it an unforgettable evening for attendees and award recipients alike.