Golden Globes winners: 12 Years a Slave stakes Oscar claim

THE epic, often brutal drama 12 Years a Slave has claimed its place as a leading Oscar contender after winning best motion picture - drama at the Golden Globes.

But the powerful film, directed by Britain's Steve McQueen, was overlooked in the other six categories in which it was nominated. The best director trophy went to Alfonso Cuaron for Gravity and the best actor and best supporting actor trophies went to Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto for the Aids drama Dallas Buyers Club.

Events followed the script when it came to best motion picture - musical or comedy. The award went to the red-hot favourite American Hustle. The buzz surrounding Cate Blanchett's performance as a down-on-her-luck socialite in Woody Allen's Blue Jasmine also proved prophetic as the Australian won best actress.

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The Daily Telegraph points out that "Seventies-set romp" American Hustle was the closest thing to an awards juggernaut last night. The film won three gongs including best actress in a musical or comedy for Amy Adams and best supporting actress for Jennifer Lawrence.

In the small screen categories Breaking Bad was named best TV series and Bryan Cranston won best actor for his role as teacher-turned-methamphetamine-cook Walter White. The award was Cranston's first Golden Globe win after five nominations, the Hollywood Reporter says.

Cranston thanked the loyal fans of the series, which soared to record highs in its final season late last year before getting reflective about the win. "What a way to go out," he said.

Critics heaped praise on the ceremony's hosts: Tina Fey and Amy Poehler. E! says the comediennes "brought in the laughs" and made "us that much more excited about seeing them on stage again for 2015".

Here's E!'s pick of Fey and Poehler's funniest moments.

The award for the show's most awkward moment went to hip-hop mogul Sean 'Diddy' Coombs and U2 Singer Bono. The Irishman looked "visibly annoyed" as he dodged Diddy's attempt to kiss him after U2 won best original song for Ordinary Love from Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom.

You can see a full list of the winners here.