The raison d’être to greatly honor the entertainment industry in 2021 came forth in New York City last night at the 30th Annual Gotham IFP Awards.
The beloved ceremony made a glorious comeback at Cipriani Wall Street. Despite the on-going battles of the pandemic the production made its way home to the landmark venue. Here in the historical ballroom Gotham IFP Awards made its own legacy and bravely brought to life a stellar tribute with a toast by Robert Hall Winery.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 11: Sponsors on display during the 30th Annual IFP Gotham Awards at Cipriani Wall Street on January 11, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for 30th Annual IFP Gotham Awards)
Seated in the grand hall was a small group of presenters and crew who gladly gathered at the socially-distanced, tested, and safe soiree in style. While the world watched the hybrid virtual show Padma Lakshmi, Renee Elise-Goldberry, Cristin Milioti, Hunter Schafer, Noma Dumezweni, Andre Holland, and Michael Shannon took the stage to announce this year’s winners.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 11: Padma Lakshmi attends the 30th Annual IFP Gotham Awards at Cipriani Wall Street on January 11, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for 30th Annual IFP Gotham Awards)
With the challenges of 2020 came new beginnings in 2021 as top honors for Best Feature and the Gotham Audience Award were both given to “Nomadland,” director Chloe Zhao’s lyrical and elegiac look at one woman deciding a new path for herself through a unique community. Michael Shannon presented the notable award noting the all-female roster of nominees.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 11: Cadillac on display during the 30th Annual IFP Gotham Awards at Cipriani Wall Street on January 11, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for 30th Annual IFP Gotham Awards)
“Thanks for sharing a category with us,” said the director via a remote location. “Thanks to all the film festivals who screened our film. We love you New York City. Be safe, be strong, and thank you!”
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 11: Renee Elise Goldsberry attends the 30th Annual IFP Gotham Awards at Cipriani Wall Street on January 11, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for 30th Annual IFP Gotham Awards)
As the awards were virtually bestowed around the planet, the intimate group gathered at individually seated tables and sipped on the delectable flavors of Robert Hall Wines. For a third year in a row guests at the ceremony enthusiastically tipped their glasses to winners at the program, which is the industry harbinger of Academy Awards, Golden Globes and Independent Spirit Awards hopefuls.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 11: IFP Executive Director Jeffrey Sharp speaks during the 30th Annual IFP Gotham Awards at Cipriani Wall Street on January 11, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for 30th Annual IFP Gotham Awards)
The party may not have been in its usual form with thousands of applauding attendees, but the night was still glitzy, glamorous, and most importantly poignant. Less than 50 people including Cipriani staff, crew, and invited celebrity filmmakers congregated under the sweeping arches of the legendary building. It was a tiny shadow of former years, but the epic reflection of the alliance carried the tenacious spirit of thousands of artists who continue to bring meaningful entertainment to mankind.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 11: Cristin Milioti and Noma Dumezweni attend the 30th Annual IFP Gotham Awards at Cipriani Wall Street on January 11, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for 30th Annual IFP Gotham Awards)
The IFP Gotham Awards, selected by distinguished juries and presented in New York City, the home of independent film, are the first honors of the film awards season. This public showcase honors the filmmaking community, expands the audience for independent films, and supports the work that IFP does behind the scenes throughout the year to bring such films to fruition.
Here is to giving your own toast to hope in 2021 with Robert Hall Wines.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 11: Robert Hall Winery, Elizabeth Taylor attends the 30th Annual IFP Gotham Awards at Cipriani Wall Street on January 11, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for 30th Annual IFP Gotham Awards)
Editor’s Note: ElizaBeth Taylor, known as the Sensible Socialite, was the honored Robert Hall Winery Brand Ambassador for the festivities.
