All of the Photos From Inside the 2020 Critics’ Choice Awards

Last night some of Hollywood’s brightest stars gathered at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, a sweeping event space that once housed Howard Hughes’s planes and now hosts the Critics’ Choice Awards. If the ceremony itself were to be awarded, it would win award most likely to get you an Oscar. Historically they are the most accurate predictor of Academy Award nominations, and so as each winner is called up to the stage, it’s often just the beginning.

Regarding the fashion, it’s a night that emphasizes the optional in black-tie optional. “It’s so much more relaxed than the Golden Globes or the Oscars,” said Billy Porter, who brought the glam in a two-toned Hogan McLaughlin pantsuit that was both Old Hollywood and futuristic. “You feel like you can be a little funkier.” Many followed suit, including Zendaya, who rocked a Tom Ford two-piece look with a PVC crop top, and Florence Pugh, who glittered in a spangly Prada paillette gown.

During the show, which was televised on the CW, guests were treated to a formal, plant-based menu of meatless Impossible burgers and vegan burritos—and perhaps no one enjoyed it more than Joaquin Phoenix.

The stars, many of whom had rubbed elbows at last week’s Golden Globe Awards, seemed giddy for yet another reunion. The victorious Fleabag crew (Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Andrew Scott) clustered together at their table, welcoming Anne Hathaway into the mix. Emily Ratajkowski was there with husband Sebastian Bear-McClard in tow. Atomic blondes Nicole Kidman and Charlize Theron appeared the best of friends, close in conversation at their table while Jennifer Lopez and her glow made the rounds, happily posing for photos. (For the winners, have a look here.)

Once the final award had been doled out, a DJ set helped transition the night from award ceremony to after-party, which was conveniently located at the same space. Guests mingled and enjoyed pre-Instagram-era dessert favorite Pinkberry and tacos from Baja Fresh, adding a high-low element to the evening. If there was any tension during the award ceremony, it had melted away by this time. The night’s big winners, like Laura Dern and Kristen Bell, bopped about, award in one hand, Champagne flute in another. Cheers! Everyone was one red carpet closer to the Oscars.