Johnny Depp thanks the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for his Golden Globe Award for SWEENEY TODD

Due to the writers’ strike, last night’s Golden Globe Awards were announced in a press conference with no nominees present–and therefore, no acceptance speeches by the winners. Here is Johnny Depp’s statement thanking the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for naming him Best Actor in a Motion Picture–Musical or Comedy for his performance in SWEENEY TODD, which was also their pick for Best Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy:

“I would like to thank my beloved friends at the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for bestowing such an honor on me. It is a humbling experience, especially in the company of such talent,” Johnny said. “For many years, the HFPA has supported my work, and for that I have always been truly grateful.

“While this is indeed a happy day for me, I am overjoyed at the recognition the film as a whole is receiving. Tim [Burton] is a dear friend and a true artist whose vision and skill inspire us all. He is a genius. Without his unwavering trust and support, I would not be anywhere near where I am today,” said Johnny. “Also, big thanks and respect to Helena [Bonham Carter], whose simply staggering performance as Mrs. Lovett is a wonder to behold.”

Johnny went on to recognize everyone associated with SWEENEY TODD: “I must send a behemoth salute to the wonderful crew and cast of SWEENEY TODD and all at Dreamworks/Paramount and Warner Bros. Pictures.” Then came personal messages of thanks: “In addition, I’d also like to extend my sincere gratitude to, first and foremost, my cherished friend and agent of forever ago, Tracey Jacobs; the extraordinary man and producer, Richard Zanuck; the mastermind Stephen Sondheim; and, of course, my precious family, Vanessa, Lily-Rose, and Jack, for all of their love, support and pure and absolute happiness everyday.”

Johnny concluded, “Overall, I believe it to be a proud achievement for everyone involved, and on behalf of us all, I thank you.”

Many thanks to Theresa and Emma for posting Johnny’s announcement on the Zone’s News & Views forum, and to The Insider for carrying the full text of his remarks. You can read them here: http://tinyurl.com/2wft7e To see a larger version of our photo of Johnny, Helena Bonham Carter and Tim Burton at the London premiere of SWEENEY TODD last week, click here: http://tinyurl.com/3cmo7v It’s not exactly a Golden Globes red carpet pic, but it’s close! –Part-Time Poet

It's golden! Johnny Depp and SWEENEY TODD win Golden Globe Awards!

Johnny Depp won his first Golden Globe award this evening; he was named Best Actor in a Motion Picture–Musical or Comedy for his role as the vengeance-driven barber in SWEENEY TODD: THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET. Tim Burton’s film of Stephen Sondheim’s musical SWEENEY TODD was named Best Motion Picture–Musical or Comedy, besting a strong field that included ACROSS THE UNIVERSE, CHARLIE WILSON’S WAR, HAIRSPRAY, and JUNO. The Zone sends heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Johnny, Tim, and all of the cast and crew of SWEENEY TODD!

The Hollywood Press Association scattered its awards among a number of motion pictures, naming ATONEMENT as Best Motion Picture–Drama, and recognizing NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN for Best Screenplay and Best Supporting Actor, Javier Bardem, while Daniel Day-Lewis (THERE WILL BE BLOOD) and Julie Christie (AWAY FROM HER) were honored as Best Actor and Actress in a Motion Picture–Drama. Marion Cotillard won Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy for LA VIE EN ROSE; Cate Blanchett won Best Supporting Actress for I’M NOT THERE; and THE DIVING BELL AND THE BUTTERFLY won two Golden Globes, for Best Director (Julian Schnabel) and Best Foreign Language Film.

Johnny Depp’s win for SWEENEY TODD marked his eighth Golden Globe nomination; he was previously nominated for EDWARD SCISSORHANDS, BENNY & JOON, ED WOOD, PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: THE CURSE OF THE BLACK PEARL, FINDING NEVERLAND, CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY, and PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MAN’S CHEST. –Part-Time Poet