'The Great Ziegfeld': The First Film to Win Best Picture at the Golden Globes

In the history of cinema, few moments are as significant as the first time a film received the prestigious Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Drama. That honour went to The Great Ziegfeld in 1936, marking a milestone in recognising excellence in filmmaking on an international stage.

The Great Ziegfeld, directed by Robert Z. Leonard, was a lavish musical drama that celebrated the life and career of Florenz Ziegfeld, the legendary Broadway impresario. The film was notable not only for its grandeur and spectacular musical numbers but also for its impressive cast, including William Powell, Myrna Loy, and Luise Rainer. Its production was a testament to Hollywood’s ambition during the 1930s, showcasing opulence and spectacle that captivated audiences and critics alike.

The Golden Globes, established by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA), aimed to honour outstanding achievements in film and television. The award for Best Motion Picture – Drama was introduced as part of the inaugural ceremony held in 1944, but it recognised films from previous years’ releases. The Great Ziegfeld was honoured retrospectively for its 1936 release, making it the first recipient of this coveted accolade.

This win set a precedent for future recognitions and helped elevate the status of the Golden Globes as a major awards ceremony alongside the Oscars. It also highlighted Hollywood’s penchant for producing spectacular musicals and dramas that could appeal to both critics and audiences worldwide.

Today, The Great Ziegfeld remains a significant piece of cinematic history — not only as an early winner of a major award but also as a reflection of 1930s Hollywood’s grandeur. Its victory at the Golden Globes marked the beginning of a tradition that continues to celebrate excellence in film.