stephanie stan is outside the area where the stars are arriving. >> reporter: indeed, the red carpet is ratcheting up here. some stars are already making their way down. all eyes will be watching the show tonight, not just for the nominees and the tv and film categories, but also to see if things get political here. that's because many a-listers pledged to wear black to draw attention to the sexual harassment scandal sweeping hollywood. it's a night of celebration for hollywood's top talent. tempered by recent headlines and predatory behavior by power brokers. >> it will be taken more seriously given everything going on in hollywood right now. >> seth myers has hit on his late night show. he'll walk a fine line for laughs tonight. >> we're focusing on trying to set a good tone off the top of the show and turning it over to the people that it's actually -- the night is actually about. >> you may think that thing looks human. >> the romantic fantasy, the shape of water has the most nominations at seven, including best drama. it's no lock to win anything. >> there is no clear front-runn