Along with honors from other Hollywood professional groups such as actors, directors and writers guilds, the producer prizes have become part of the preseason sorting out contenders for Academy Awards.

NPR: 'Argo' Wins Producers Guild Awards

Xoan guilds traditionally performed in sacred spaces such as temples, shrines and communal houses for the spring festivals.

UNESCO: Eight new elements inscribed on List of Intangible Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding | United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

So it should have been obvious from the beginning that "Argo" was going to nab that one, even without its pre-Oscar haul of prizes from such trade organizations as the Screen Actors, Producers and Directors guilds.

CNN: With 'Argo' win, Hollywood air kisses itself