In a Hollywood comeback worthy of its own cinematic masterpiece, the 81st Golden Globes roared back to life, casting aside the shadows of scandal and reclaiming its spotlight. Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer,” a haunting exploration of the atomic bomb’s architect, reigned supreme, detonating five awards including Best Drama and Best Director. Cillian Murphy, impeccably portraying the film’s enigmatic protagonist, walked away with a chillingly deserved Best Actor win.

But amidst the nuclear fallout of “Oppenheimer,” an unexpected bloom emerged. Yorgos Lanthimos’ darkly comedic “Poor Things,” inspired by Frankenstein’s mythos, defied odds and snatched the Best Comedy or Musical trophy from the grasp of the much-fancied “Barbie.” Emma Stone, a whirlwind of charisma in the role of Bella, a Victorian woman reborn with unconventional parts, captivated the audience with her fearless performance.

History etched its mark on the night through Lily Gladstone’s groundbreaking win for Best Actress in a Drama. Her powerful portrayal in Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon” stood as a monumental moment for Indigenous representation on the awards stage. The room hummed with the significance of this victory, a testament to the Globes’ commitment to inclusivity in its new era.

The ceremony itself sparkled with a newfound vibrancy. Jo Koy, the evening’s host, unleashed his signature stand-up, his jokes crackling through the ballroom like playful sparks. CBS, the Globes’ new broadcast partner, draped the proceedings in a layer of shimmering glamour, proving that even a phoenix can rise from the ashes in a sequined gown.

Hollywood’s box office titans, “Oppenheimer” and “Barbie,” released on the same day, locked horns in several categories. “Barbie,” the year’s undisputed queen of the box office, strutted away with the newly-minted “Cinematic and Box Office Achievement” award, reminding everyone that sometimes, pink truly does rule the world.

But beyond the behemoths, smaller gems shone brightly. Paul Giamatti and Da’Vine Joy Randolph delivered poignant performances in Alexander Payne’s “The Holdovers,” their wins a sweet reminder that quiet brilliance can sometimes outshine the bombast. The critically acclaimed series “The Bear” and “Beef” also feasted on awards, proving the Globes still have a discerning palate for quality television.

As Billie Eilish’s haunting “What Was I Made For?” faded, the 81st Golden Globes signed off with a whisper of cautious hope. The ghosts of the past had been exorcised, replaced by the flickering flame of a potentially brighter future. Whether this rekindled fire can withstand the ever-shifting winds of Hollywood remains to be seen. But for now, at least, the Globes have proven that even after a near-death experience, the show must, and will, go on.