The 78th Golden Globe Awards took place on 28th February 2021, two months later than normal due to the impact of Covid 19. Chloe Zhao became the second woman to win the best director and the first female winner of Asian descent, along with her film "Nomadland" crowned as a top drama film. It stars two-time Oscar winner Frances McDormand. 

Zhao was nominated among three women in the directing category. 

“I especially want to thank the nomads who shared their stories with us,” Zhao said, accepting the directing honor on a Sunday night.  Zhao also was nominated for best motion picture screenplay and lost to Aaron Sorkin. McDormand received a nod for actress in a motion picture drama but lost.