I have watched the Oscars ever since I became interested in film making. It has been a dream of mine to be able to be on that stage accepting for best original screenplay. I'm a writer not and actor Maybe someday with a little inspiration I might just find myself in that position. for now I can only review.
Hugh Jackman did a fantastic job as MC. Witty, energetic, and musical. The opening was great, especially with the different stage setup this year. It almost felt like a town hall meeting with all of Hollywood's elite. Up close and intimate. One could definitely see that HDTV is really beginning to make a difference in television viewing.
The presentations were different as well this year having 5 previous winners come together to welcome in the newest winner of the higher profile awards, supporting actor/actress and best actor/actress. Another mention is the multiple presentations by a single person or couple. It made the show flow smooth and seem like it was much shorter than it was.
The highlight for me this year was Heath Ledger taking the much deserved Best Supporting Actor for his rendition of the Joker. I know most feel that the win was obligated because of his death but even if he had not left us so untimely I would've bet my life savings on that win. Heath was the Joker and it is truly disappointing to know that that character can never come back to the Batman franchise, well I should say that it should never be attempted in my opinion anyway. Heath commanded the screen in that role and I really wish he could've been here to accept the award. I don't think the Oscar curse would have effected his career.
The disappointment for me was Mickey Rourke not winning Best Actor with no disrespect to Sean Penn. Mickey truly was the beaten and broken down piece of meat that Randy 'The Ram' was, he should have taken home that statue.
Slumdog Millionaire taking Best Picture was far from a surprise taking into consideration the plethora of awards it took leading up to the big moment. 8 major awards overall, it was definitely a big night for such a reasonably small film. It's great to see smaller budgets beat out the bottomless pockets.
Overall it was a great year for films and film making and it will be fun to try and pick out next years nominations as they come to the big screens near us all.
OK...I'll shuddup now....
Cheers
