RICKY GETS THE GLOBES SHOW OFF TO A LIVELY START

After a long, slow walk up the red carpet, posing for photographers and giving interviews the stars attending the Golden Globes show took their seats in the ballroom. Well, most of them, anyway. Nicole Kidman hung out in the bar with George Clooney and Glenn Close until the television cameras rolled and Ricky Gervais came on stage to open the show. Those who were hoping he would be as outrageous as last year weren’t disappointed as he said the Golden Globes were just like the Oscars —–”but without the esteem.”

He went on: “The Golden Globes are to the Oscars what Kim Kardashian is to Kate Middleton….a bit louder, a bit trashier and more easily bought.” Then he added with a grin: “Allegedly.”

Gerard Butler and Mila Kunis announced the winner of the first award, for best supporting actor. It went to 82-year-old Christopher Plummer for his role in The Beginners. He plays Hal, a retired museum director who, after the death of his wife of 45 years, comes out as a gay man, finds a younger boyfriend, throws parties, and visits dance clubs.

Plummer saluted his co-star, “Ewan —-my heart is in the Highlands—- McGregor, that scene-stealing swine from the Outer Hebrides.”