So, no real big surprises...

And the show seemed to flow, but I didn't find it was all that an inspiring show. Several of the wins made me glad... Homeland, Damien Lewis, Clare Danes, Daily Show (even though I thought that would annoy me), Julianne Moore, Danny Strong. 

Jimmy Kimmel was a strong host, as he's extraordinarily likeable that even when a bit falters, he still makes it work.

Also what I learned this evening... the Empire State Building was red and white today because of the 25th Anniversary of Where's Waldo.  Something I really did not know before I heard it.

And, Michael J. Fox gets to present...

Yay, cause he's awesome and will be on NBC next year.  Errr... he's not awesome because he'll be on NBC.  He's awesome . And will be on NBC next year .

First they applause...  And then the applause grows... And they stand for him...  That's awesome.  He gets in a funny Facebook stock zinger.  Kid's still got it...

Outstanding Comedy Series
The Big Bang Theory
Curb Your Enthusiasm
Girls
Modern Family
30 Rock
Veep

And Modern Family wins.    No, it's a good show.  Really.   Steve Levitan speaks... again. They love their jobs.  Yay them. And, it sounded like his mic got cut. Kimmel chimes in by asking the crowd if they wanted to stay another hour.

And that's a wrap.

Julianne Moore gets to present...

Outstanding Drama Series
Boardwalk Empire
Breaking Bad
Game of Thrones
Downton Abbey
Mad Men
Homeland

And Homeland takes home the victory! Okay, starting tomorrow I will watch one episode a night until the weekend when I will watch the rest so I am all caught up by Sunday. I wonder how this slew of victories will affect the ratings.  Huh... Homeland was the first series to win for Showtime. I don't know that I realized that. Let's hope Web Therapy wins next year for comedy! Also, he's not wrong, that is a killer writing staff.  And, it does have a killer cast. And, he gets played off again. That's funny and ironic (I think).

More Mini-series and Movie

Jennifer Goodwin and Emily VanCamp present...

Outstanding Direction...
Jay Roach for Game Change...
And he gives a shout out for HBO for dealing with politics. And Playtone produced this, which is why Tom Hanks gave Danny Strong a high five.  Now, it all makes sense. Gives a special shout out to Danny Strong.

Outstanding Lead Actor...
Kevin Costner.  I'm not surprised and Benedict Cumberbatch will be back next year, but I wish he would have won. Also, Kevin, just because you're on the Emmys doesn't mean you get to go without a tie. Show some respect for the medium.  Yeesh.

Outstanding Movie or Mini-series (presented by Andre Braugher - who is awesome and whose got an awesome voice)...
Game Change wins, which means movie star Tom Hanks gets to walk up on stage. That's exciting.  Tom Hanks starts out a touch political talking about the political process.  Tom Hanks is getting handsomer as he gets older.  Or, at least he's cuter with straight hair.

More awards...

Outstanding writing for Miniseries or Movie

Danny Strong (Jonathan from Buffy) wins for Game Change!  And he still acts...

Wow, the microphone completely covers his face.  Awww... he dedicates it to his mom.  That's sweet.

Lead Actress in a Miniseries or Movie...

BTW: I'm blaming the Brits for all of these shorter series being considered as mini-series, rather than actual series.

Julianne Moore wins for playing Sarah Palin.  Yay!!  I like her.  And, I love that she brings up her Daytime Emmy win.

And she calls out Sarah Palin for giving her a thumbs down.  She seems so happy to have won. 

It's Opie!

Ron Howard comes out to present a tribute to Andy Griffith...

Awww... he's tearing up.  That is so sweet.  And, he's not wearing a hat; that's respect.

And now the rest of the In Memorium...

Please don't applause during... please don't applause during...

And they applause during... I hate that.

Starting with a heavy hitter in Marvin Hamlisch...

And Steve Jobs gets a mention?

As does Whitney Houston?  What did she do on tv?

Kathryn Jooston (sigh)

 And, Harry Morgan...

And, the world's oldest teenager, Dick Clark gets the final send off.  

I like Kerry Washington and not just because she spoke at the DNC...

And she presents Outstanding Supporting Actor in Movie or Mini-Series...

Wow, this was a great category.

Tom Berenger won (and he was great), but I would seriously have been fine with any of the other nominees.  Especially Denis O'Hare, who needs to win something soon.
And, he started to drone on and on with names so that he was played off...

The Academy is cool...

Head of TV Academy Bruce Rosenbloom and a pantsless Ellen Degeneres talk about all that the Academy does. Actually, I really do like their archives (emmytvlegends.org) and I still regret that I was rejected from the NATAS internship program in college.

Seriously, the Academy does good stuff.

Jimmy Kimmel's Father and Mother are being introduced...

Jimmy Kimmel calls out his parents for telling him he could have done anything.  But, he put his mind to winning an Emmy and he lost.  So, now he kicks his parents out.  Though, his mom looked so sad when he mentioned that he lost.  That was sweet.  Overall, this was funny, but I'm noticing most of his bits are all about him.  Not sure how I feel about that.

Miniseries and Movies...

How much did Julianne Moore look like Sarah Palin?

Still not loving that American Horror Story was considered a mini-series, but another clip of Connie Britton, so awesome...

And, I liked Hatfields & McCoys.

Outstanding Guest Actress in a Movie or Mini-series...

And Jessica Lange wins for American Horror Story.  And gets a kiss from Connie Britton. 

Ricky Gervais presents...

Outstanding Directing for a Variety Show...

Okay, Ricky, this is not about you...

And, Glen Weiss wins for the Tony Awards. He's currently directing the Emmys, so you can see the control truck behind me. And, he tells them to play him off, after thanking his parents. 

And now Ricky presents...

Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Special...

And The Daily Show with Jon Stewart wins... again. 

But he's being tackled by Jimmy Fallon and Stephen Colbert.

And, normally I agree he wins too much but his show is awesome!  So, I'm not mad at him.

Also, I want to see Won't Back Down (the school movie).

Variety...

Hugh Jackman and Neil Patrick Harris should be on my tv every week... Their clip from the Tony Awards just went by.  Awesomeness...

Aziz Ansari and Jane Leavy present Outstanding Writing for a Variety Show...

And they are now presenting with British accents because those folks are taken more seriously...

And Robert DeNiro is correct... he was amazing in the Deer Hunter (from the Kennedy Center Honors).

Neil Patrick Harris needs to sing on HIMYM every week.

And Louis CK wins another Emmy.  I still like his suit.

They make poor Jon Hamm present right after losing...

That's cold. 

And, I feel like this is falling flat, but I'm liking their interplay (since Tina Fey forgot her glasses).

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series
Kathy Bates, Harry’s Law
Glenn Close, Damages
Julianna Margulies, The Good Wife
Michelle Dockery, Downton Abbey
Claire Danes, Homeland 
Elisabeth Moss, Mad Men

Hey!  I got one right.  And, Clare Danes wins.  Yay!  (Though, I still haven't seen the whole season yet (which I will have done by next week when the new season starts).

Mandy Patinkin... Holla!  Love it!

I like this speech...

And now I want to watch My So Called Life again...

In Memorium for the Living...

Jimmy decides that we shouldn't wait until people pass away to say how much we care.

Josh Groban sings for an In Memorium for Jimmy Kimmel. 

Juliana Margulies presents...

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series
Steve Buscemi, Boardwalk Empire
Hugh Bonneville, Downton Abbey
Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad 
Michael C. Hall, Dexter
Jon Hamm, Mad Men
Damian Lewis, Homeland

And the winner is...
Damian Lewis.  Wow... Didn't see that coming.  Poor Jon Hamm.  He's awesome and not just because of his killer accent. Wow, I'm so used to hearing him with a flat American accent that to hear his natural accent is kind of surprising (in a way that hearing Hugh Laurie's accent was not).  Also, Michael C. Hall did not seem pleased.  I think he thought he was being patronized to.

Also, I don't want to congratulate the winners via twitter, so stop telling me to do so.

Beginning to loathe the woman giving the Emmy tidbits...

Don't you think Jon Hamm feels bad enough that he hasn't won an Emmy.

And Giancarlo Esposito gets a big hand when he comes out to announce who already won the guest actor/actress in a drama series. This is what happens when you don't have to be funny.

And, Jeremy Davies and Martha Plimpton who won this award get to give out the awards for...

Directing in a Drama Series.

And they're asked if they are a dramatic person...

Meh...

Though, Tim van Patten's was funny, as he just used a scene of Steve Buscemi.  And, Tim didn't show, so they accepted the award on his behalf.

Do you think the Emmy asks a few potential winners not to show up, just so they can skip the speech and save on time?

Jimmy Kimmel is pulling a prank on...

So, Tracey Morgan is to lie on the stage so people think he's passed out.  Did that trend on twitter? 

Connie Britton and Hayden Pennatiere (I can't spell her name - but the chick from Heroes and now Nashville).  Connie Britton is quite tall and Hayden is not.

So, they introduce the writers by asking the question... How do the drama writers handle writers block? 
That was funny.  Matt Weiner fires writers who get writers block.

And Homeland wins... Is this the first year an episode of Mad Men hasn't won?  No, because Breaking Bad has won this, right? 

Tag teaming writers thank the folks who gave them their start on Spencer for Hire...  I'm thinking this is the first time Spencer for Hire has been mentioned since the 1980s. And, they shout over the play off music.

And now Connie and Hayden introduce...

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series
Anna Gunn, Breaking Bad
Maggie Smith, Downton Abbey
Joanne Froggatt, Downton Abbey
Christine Baranski, The Good Wife
Christina Hendricks, Mad Men 
Archie Panjabi, The Good Wife

And Maggie Smith wins.  Okay, I'm not surprised cause she's a dame, and this was such a strong category, but...  I wanted Hendricks to win.

I am not in danger, I am the danger...

That is a great line...

It's also a sign that it's time for the Drama Montage!  See, this one I like.

And Clare Danes is presenting...

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series
Peter Dinklage, Game of Thrones
Aaron Paul, Breaking Bad 
Giancarlo Esposito, Breaking Bad
Brendan Coyle, Downton Abbey
Jim Carter, Downton Abbey
Jared Harris, Mad Men

And, Aaron Paul wins.  I'm glad.  And, the first person to greet him is Giancarlo Esposito. That was sweet.  And the second was Bryan Cranston.  That must be an awesome set.
He is giving a nice speech.  He thanks Vince and the rest of the writers for not killing him off which was the plan. Awww... I like his words to his fiancee.  He seems like an awesome kid.  

Big Bang Theory comedy bit...

Sheldon is very exciting about the introduction of the Ernst & Young Accountants...

Well, that's one way to make it more... Interesting?  CPA... CPA... CPA...

And, Seth McFarland has a messed up microphone.  Apparently, he skipped rehearsal, which he admits to his Brian voice.

Another new rule... you can't insult the people whose nomination you're about to announce.  There's just no humor to be mined there, which was evident when the crowd didn't laugh.

And the winner is Tom Bergeron - Dancing with the Stars.  Huh... I was surprised by that. Though, I don't watch Dancing with the Stars.

He's giving a good speech.  Shout outs to Betty White and Jeff Probst (cause he wasn't nominated) and even manages a plug for the premiere of his own show.

Okay, that was painless...

Reality...

And, something was off with the timing for the reality montage.

But, since I want to fast forward through this whole montage, I don't care that much.  

Dawson and Damon Wayans, Jr. come out and give the score of the Pats/Ravens game.  It's week 3 people, does anyone really care?

Outstanding Reality-Competition Program
The Amazing Race 
American Idol
Dancing With the Stars
Project Runway
So You Think You Can Dance
Top Chef

And the Amazing Race wins again.  Have they lost yet?  In this category?  Like, ever?

New rule:  If you win the same aware more than two times, you can't be surprised when you win again.

At least his speech was short.

It's Stephen Colbert! This makes me happy...

Because Stephen Colbert always makes me happy. But, he's not presenting with Jon Stewart, which confuses me.

And, Colbert comes out against the War on Women...  For the most part.

Five of the women nominated are outstanding and the other two... and he's out of time.

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series
Lena Dunham, Girls
Zooey Deschanel, New Girl
Melissa McCarthy, Mike & Molly
Amy Poehler, Parks and Recreation
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Veep
Tina Fey, 30 Rock
Edie Falco, Nurse Jackie

And the winner is... Julia Louis-Dreyfus.  Sigh... I like her... I really do. But, I wanted Amy Poehler to win.  Because, she's awesome.  And she was absolutely great last year.

So, Julia starts out by thanking the folks at NBC and Parks and Rec. And, it's Amy Poehler's speech. So, they switch back.

I love how the women do a funny thing each year.

There is nothing funny about the idea of Julia Louis-Dreyfus being Vice President.

Okay, the last bit was awesome.  Isn't it a shame that Amy Poehler didn't win?  Yes!!

It's Matthew Perry (watch Go On only on NBC!)

And Matthew Perry is announcing who already won for Guest Actor and Actress in a Comedy.  Which were already announced on Saturday.  But, he likes attention so that's good.  Yeah, that was off...

And the winners were Kathy Bates and Jimmy Fallon (and Mattew Perry had to wait for their applause, which was nice).

And now Kathy Bates and Jimmy Fallon are announcing the winners for Best Comedy Direction.

Okay that was cute... The directors explain what makes a good director.  Apparently, being Jewish helps (Louis CK, notwithstanding).

And the winner is... Steve Levitan (Modern Family). 

Okay, if you've already won four times, a win can't be shocking.  Though, I guess since this is his first directing win, that makes a bit more sense.

Somewhat funny egoist acceptance speech.  Getting titters if not out loud laughter.
But, he ends with some nice self-deprecating humor.

And the Modern Family cast talks about how nice everyone is, except the actress who plays Lilly.  Okay, that's really funny. 

And, Mindy Kaling and Melissa McCarthy are presenting...

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series
Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock
Don Cheadle, House of Lies
Louis C.K., Louie 
Jon Cryer, Two and a Half Men
Jim Parsons, The Big Bang Theory
Larry David, Curb Your Enthusiasm
It's time for Louis C.K. to take home the Emmy. 

Wow, the actresses really wanted to get through that quickly.  I wonder if McCarthy is getting sick of doing the same thing in every awards show. And, Larry David apparently isn't there tonight.

And the winner is Jon Cryer?  I totally give up.  I don't see it, but neither does Cryer, apparently.  I actually think he's legitimately surprised. I wonder if this is a response to the whole Charlie Sheen thing.  Did he thank Ashton Kutcher? I know he thanked Chuck Lorre, but I didn't hear him thank his cast.  Though, I guess he didn't have a speech because he didn't think he'd win.  Which, I didn't think he'd win either, so I get it.

Jim Parsons and Zoey Deschannel are giving out the award for...
Best Writing for a Sitcom...

So, Zoey does not read off a teleprompter all that well. 

Louis CK wins...  

And Jimmy is in the audience speaking to Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul about what their shows would be like without cable.

And, it's an Andy Griffith homage, as Paul and Cranston take out Don Knotts.  Cute...

And Kat Dennings and Jon Cryer present for...

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
Mayim Bialik, The Big Bang Theory
Kathryn Joosten, Desperate Housewives
Sofia Vergara, Modern Family
Kristen Wiig, Saturday Night Live 
Julie Bowen, Modern Family
Merritt Wever, Nurse Jackie


Awwww... I forgot that Kathryn Joosten passed away. And, the crowd is getting into cheering for the nominees for this category.


And the Emmy goes to Julie Bowen.  Meh... She's good, I suppose, but I would like to see someone else win this one.  It's such a strong category. 


Also, I'm not crazy about the lady who's announcing the tidbits about the winners.  Bring back John Hodgman! 


And, nipple covers is getting a lot of play.  I wonder if it's trending on twitter.

Amy Poehler and Louis CK are presenting the award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.

And Louis is wearing a suit.  Sure, it's a black suit, but it's a suit nonetheless...  And, I like Amy's dress.

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
Max Greenfield, New Girl
Eric Stonestreet, Modern Family
Ed O’Neill, Modern Family
Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Modern Family
Ty Burrell, Modern Family
Bill Hader, Saturday Night Live

I had Bill Hader winning, but Eric Stonestreet takes the win.  So, the Modern Family cast does not split the vote. He spends most of the time singing Jesse Tyler Ferguson's praises, which is cool. And, hes' crying as he tells all the actors out there to stick with it.  That's sweet.

Okay, this is a bit of a late start, but it's finally started. The 2012 Emmy Awards have begun (yes, I'm an hour and 17 minutes late).

I love Christina Hendricks Emmy surprise face.  And Connie Britton needs to be on my tv every day.  So, worst case scenario, I'll watch Friday Night Lights every day.  Not a bad plan B.

Also, I like that they brought up the horror of the year the reality hosts hosted.

And, I like Jimmy Kimmel, cause he's got the funny. 

Also, Kathy Bates, Martha Plimpton, Ellen Degeneres, Julia Louis-Dreyfus. 

I enjoyed this cold open, though there is a chance it's the half-glass of wine talking.

And, heeeeeere's Jimmy...

Love that Philo gets his due cred. Aaron Sorkin must be so proud.

I'm surprised that Jimmy is getting kind of political.

But, that's a great line about the president shouldn't watch Homeland, just like Charlie Sheen shouldn't watch Breaking Bad.

And, yes, I do need to watch Girls. 

A horse meat joke... daring.  Possibly more daring than the Kelsey Grammar joke.

Booo... no nomination for drama for any broadcast channel.  Though, to be fair, I'm not sure what I would have nominated on the broadcast side.

Emmy Picks!

And it's time for the most exciting time of the year for a tv fan... The National Association of Television Arts & Sciences Awards for Excellence - more commonly knows as the EMMYS!

Below, please find my choices of what i think should win, not necessarily what I think will win.  

Outstanding Drama Series
Boardwalk Empire
Breaking Bad
Game of Thrones
Downton Abbey
Mad Men
Homeland
This is going to be one of the many categories where it's going to be close. If Homeland doesn't take it, I think Mad Men could get the win.  However, it's got to be said that one day I would like to see a broadcast network drama be nominated again. Will next year be the year? 

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series
Steve Buscemi, Boardwalk Empire
Hugh Bonneville, Downton Abbey
Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad 
Michael C. Hall, Dexter
Jon Hamm, Mad Men
Damian Lewis, Homeland
This was a toughy, because I LOVE Damian Lewis, but I've been hearing ridiculous things about Bryan Cranston, and quite frankly, I'm still on the emotional high from last year's Emmys when Kyle Chandler won.  So, I'm okay if Cranston takes the win... again. 



Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series
Kathy Bates, Harry’s Law
Glenn Close, Damages
Julianna Margulies, The Good Wife
Michelle Dockery, Downton Abbey
Claire Danes, Homeland 
Elisabeth Moss, Mad Men
I think Danes will take the victory, but I'd be okay with a Moss, Margulies or Dockery victory, as well.  

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series
Peter Dinklage, Game of Thrones
Aaron Paul, Breaking Bad 
Giancarlo Esposito, Breaking Bad
Brendan Coyle, Downton Abbey
Jim Carter, Downton Abbey
Jared Harris, Mad Men
Another stupidly difficult category. I think it's Aaron Paul's to lose, but Esposito also had a hell of a great story/season, so the worry is that they'll split the Breaking Bad vote. Ditto for the Downton Abbey folks, so it's possible that Dinklage will take home the trophy again. Though I still think Paul will grab it.

Outstanding Comedy Series
The Big Bang Theory
Curb Your Enthusiasm
Girls
Modern Family
30 Rock
Veep
I think Modern Family will repeat (in a less stellar season), but I can also see Girls sneaking through with the win. 

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series
Anna Gunn, Breaking Bad
Maggie Smith, Downton Abbey
Joanne Froggatt, Downton Abbey
Christine Baranski, The Good Wife
Christina Hendricks, Mad Men 
Archie Panjabi, The Good Wife
Oh gosh, I want Christina Hendricks to win.  I really, really do.  The episode where she XXXXXX with the XXXXX, nearly killed me.  Though, this is another category, where I would be happy for any of the nominees to take home the statue.

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series
Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock
Don Cheadle, House of Lies
Louis C.K., Louie 
Jon Cryer, Two and a Half Men
Jim Parsons, The Big Bang Theory
Larry David, Curb Your Enthusiasm
It's time for Louis C.K. to take home the Emmy.

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series
Lena Dunham, Girls
Zooey Deschanel, New Girl
Melissa McCarthy, Mike & Molly
Amy Poehler, Parks and Recreation
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Veep
Tina Fey, 30 Rock
Edie Falco, Nurse Jackie
Yes, all of the actresses are great, but Amy Poehler better win this one, or there will be riots in my corner of West End Avenue.  Yes, I said riots!
 
Outstanding Reality-Competition Program
The Amazing Race 
American Idol
Dancing With the Stars
Project Runway
So You Think You Can Dance
Top Chef
Seriously, why even have this as a category? Has The Amazing Race ever lost?  And, yet, who can tell me anything about last season's Amazing Race? 

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
Max Greenfield, New Girl
Eric Stonestreet, Modern Family
Ed O’Neill, Modern Family
Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Modern Family
Ty Burrell, Modern Family
Bill Hader, Saturday Night Live
Unless the Modern Family folks spread a whisper campaign that the voters should vote for one of them in particular, I think they will split the vote (though I say this every year, and I'm always wrong). I do think this is Bill Hader's year. Him or Ty Burrell.

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
Mayim Bialik, The Big Bang Theory
Kathryn Joosten, Desperate Housewives
Sofia Vergara, Modern Family
Kristen Wiig, Saturday Night Live 
Julie Bowen, Modern Family
Merritt Wever, Nurse Jackie
I would like to see a Mayim Bialik win because I do think she's breathed new life into BBT, but I think the voters are going to give it to Wiig as a good luck in the movies gesture.

2012 Academy Awards: The Recap...

And, so the 85th Annual Academy Awards have come to a close.

I'd give it a C+. There was just such low energy throughout the entire night, save when a few individual presenters livened things up (Scorcese ! Robert Downey, Jr., Ferrell and Galifinakis). In a night that was supposed to be about fans and creators love of movies, there seemed to be a lack of movie clips. We saw actors talk about their favorite films, but I would much rather see the clips rather than hear, with a shorter voice over).

I was glad The Artist won, and was surprised that Hugo won most of the tech awards.

I was sad that Viola Davis won, but happy not sad that Meryl Streep did. I'm also glad that Octavia Spencer took home the statue. Captain Von Trapp (Christopher Plummer) took home an Oscar, becoming the oldest performer to do so, as did Jean Dujardin (significantly younger, but with a killer French accent).

The Death Montage was nicely understated, but I still miss the Governor's Award presentation on the big telecast.

I had high hopes for Billy Crystal (and maybe that was my fault, as my hopes could have been too high). Aside from the opening montage (where he inserted himself into various films), nothing he did stuck out. Though, he seemed to find himself awfully funny, so there's that. yay to all the other winners.

However, yay to all the winners. Like I've said, it was a good season for movies (though I do wish Harry Potter had filled that 10th slot for Best Picture nominees).

Now, I don't know how one gets in the Academy, but lets hope for some additional diversity in the coming years, so it becomes less old, white male

Best Picture...

And Tom Cruise presents the last category of the evening, Best Picture. And, here we get the montage of all the Best Picture nominees, which I feel are usually interspersed throughout the evening. I'm not sure how I feel about having the single montage at the end of the evening.

And the winner is...

THE ARTIST!

I called it. And, I'm glad it won. But, it was a very, very good year for movies.

The French are funny. And apparently grow very tall women.

Lots of shout outs to directors past. I approve.

Best Lead Actress...

And, Colin Firth introduces all of the nominees individually, again. There is just something informal about the way these start with the speaking directly to the nominee, using just the first name. It's so insular. Bah. That said, I will listen to Colin Firth say just about anything, so I'm more okay with this segment than with Natalie Portman's.
He also clearly liked working with Meryl Streep and Michelle Williams (but more Meryl).

And the Oscar goes to Meryl Streep. I'm surprised, I really thought it was going to Viola Davis. And, I do love Meryl Streep, but Viola was just great. And, Viola was the first to stand, and went over to give her a hug. I love that. I do.

And, she starts with the shout out to her husband, so it wouldn't be missed by the music. That's adorable. And, she thanks her hair/makeup guy who won earlier that night. And, now she talks about how great it is working with her friends, old and new, here and departed. That was a great speech and sounded a bit like a retirement speech. Which, I hope she's not.

Best Lead Actor...

More actors talking about movies, only this time coming out of commercial. I think that's the first time this has happened. This time they're talking about how hard it is to make films.

Billy Crystal needs to stop laughing at his own jokes.

Natalie Portman is introducing the Best Actor nominees individually. Which is sweet, but I'm kind of ready for the show to be over.

Okay, it's dragging. I'm ready for this bit to be over.

For this they cut out the Governor's Awards? Bah! Or the Best Song performances? Double Bah!

And, Jean Dujardin wins for The Artist! I totally called that. He loves our country. And apparently we love him. Actually, we really do.

Apparently, the first Oscars ceremony only lasted 15 minutes. Good to know.

Also, he's got a killer French accent when he speaks English and I really wish I could speak French when he speaks French.

I'm a whopping 8-22.

In Memorium...

Kathy just pointed out that Whitney died this year, so she might not even be represented. Excellent point.

Gil Cates (former Oscar Director) gets a special shout out by Billy Crystal. And Esperanza Spalding is singing "What a Wonferful World." She has a great voice.

And, Whitney was represented in this year's show, as was Steve Jobs.

I wonder how they decided who actually got to speak.

And, Liz Taylor does end it, with a touch more time than everyone else.

That was well done. Classy, understated. It seems like everyone got the same amount of time onscreen.

Who will end the Death Montage?

Early money is on Liz Taylor, but late money is claiming Whitney.

And, I loved the Oprah/Jimmy Fallon promo.

Governor's Awards...

Billy Crystal introduces Meryl Streep, pointing out that she's 2-17 in Oscar victories.

I love her. I do. But, I still hope Viola Davis wins.

And, she gets stuck introducing the Governor's Awards (Honorary Oscars and Lifetime Achievement Awards). I still say that this award should still be televised and still don't understand Oprah getting a movie awards even if it is the Jean Hersholdt Humanitarian Award. Though I do approve of the standing ovation, which is what would happen if these awards were televised which they totally should be.

Best Direction...

Presented by Michael Douglas...

If Terence Malick wins, I'll be miffed. I'm rooting for Michel Hazanavicius for The Artist. And, he wins!

Aww, poor guy, he forgot his speech, but he's covering well, even remembering to thank the dog. And, his French accent is full of win.

I'm 7-21.

Tech Awards recap...

I'm sorry, there's just no way to make that interesting.

And now the cast of The Bridesmaids are introducing short films (and do a funny bit with penis jokes, in the size does matter vein).

Best Live action short...
The winner is The Shore. And, of course I had Time Freak. The director is father of the producer and now he doesn't have to wait til her wedding to tell everyone how great she is. That's adorable. And, the rest of his family is practically in tears cheering him on. That's adorable.

Best Documentary short...
And the girls continue the Scorcese drinking game, started at the Golden Globes. Brilliant!
The winner is Saving Face. And, I had Incident in New Baghdad.

Best Animated Short Film...
And the winner is The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore and of course I had Wild Life.

At 6-20, I am just getting crushed.

So, with 45 minutes left til the end of the show, we still have Best Picture, Director, Lead Actor, Lead Actress, and Death montage. Are we even getting a shout out to the Lifetime achievement awards peeps?

And Billy Crystal flubs a line...

in introducing Angelina Jolie is introducing Best Original Screenplay. And, Kathy is right, that is a high slit in her dress.

Did Angelina Jolie have work done on her face?

And the winner is... Alexander Payne, Nat Faxon and Jim Rash! The latter two are members of The Groundlings (both of whom are imitating Angelina Jolie's posing).

How do you think George Clooney feels? The film he starred in won, but the film he starred in and wrote, lost.

Alexander Payne had a lovely speech, dedicating his win to his mother, just as Javier Bardem did.

And now, Best Original Screenplay...

I thought Midnight in Paris would win, but I wouldn't be surprised if Bridesmaids does.

And the Oscar goes to... Woody Allen in Midnight in Paris!

It was his best movie in 30 years. And, he didn't show up, I wondered if he would.

I am enjoying these bits with the actors and filmmakers talking about their favorite films as we go to commercial. And, it is in these scenes that Sasha Baron Cohen shows up, as himself. He likes the same kind of sick movies he produces (which is not how I would describe his films, but whatever.)

Best Original Score (and Song)...

And now a salute to the music of the Academy Awards, with a torah looking thing.

Owen Wilson and Penelope Cruz are introducing Best Original Score...

And The Artist wins, taking me to 4-14.

And Will Ferrel and Zack Gallifinakis play the cymbals to introduce Best Original Song.

Which didn't get sung. There are only two songs, how could they not manage to fit them both in?

And the Oscar goes to...

Man or Muppet (Brett McKenzie). I liked his speech, but I'm surprised Jason Segal didn't get a shout out. Still, lots of Muppet-love going on, so it's all to the good.

Yay, I got that one too. I'm on a mini-roll.

Though, I'm not getting the flight attendant popcorn vendors.

Billy Crystal plays What are they Thinking...

I'm liking this...

He hit Brad and Angelina, Morgan Freeman, George Clooney, Viola Davis, Martin Scorcese, Nick Nolte, and the dog from The Artist.

I laughed out loud, so I suppose it was a succesful endeavor.

And, now Tom Sherak, the president of the MPAA is speaking, but he does not mention the producing/hosting controversy and neither does Billy. Though, Billy does point out how low key Sherak was. "Mr. Excitement."

Best Supporting Actor...

Melissa Leo (winner last year for The Fighter) presents. I've liked her since Homicide: Life on the Streets.

I had forgotten Nick Nolte was nominated this year.

And the Oscar goes to Christopher Plummer. WhooHoo! I'm 3-13. At the age of 82, he becomes the oldest actor ever to win an acting award. And, he gets a standing ovation, but a great opening line. "You're only two years older than me, where have you been all my life." And, he gives a classy speech, thaning his fellow nominees, director, Ewan Macgregor who he would share the award with if he had any decency. And, he brings his wife to tears with his thank you of her.

Achievement in Visual Effects

I like Emma Stone. She's funny and likeable. And quite tall compared to Ben Stiller. It went on a tiny bit too long, but the ending was worth it, when she called out Stiller for his Avatar bit last year.

C'mon, Harry Potter has to win something... Let it be Visual Effects.

And the winner goes to Hugo. Wow, I can't buy a correct answer tonight. I'm 2-12.

Hugo is racking up the victories tonight. Maybe because Scorcese has been in the business for so long, he and his people have built up a ton of good will?

Best Animated Feature...

Chris Rock does a bit for Best Animation, and it's very funny and smart.

And Rango wins! I'm 2-11.

Best Documentary...

Robert Downey, Jr. and Gwyneth Paltrow as yet have the best presenting bit, with the documentary The Presenter (note the non plurals).

And, the winner is Undefeated, which I am glad won, even though I had Paradise Lost 3. And, they had a good speech, up until they did not thank the football players whose lives they documented.

Muppets!!

talking about their memorable first movie and introducing Cirque du Soleil. As the only person in the world who does not like Cirque Du Soleil, I'm watching this under protest. Isn't the cool thing about Cirque du Soeil seeing it in person, rather than on the tv screen?

I do like how they're incproating the backdrop of famous movies, however. But, they cut out the various Lifetime Achievement awards for this.

And, I like George Clooney as much as the next person, but why cut to his reaction during the performance. Bah!

Film Editing, Sound Editing and Sound Mixing

Tina Fey and Bradley Cooper presented. They are just so darn likeable.

I had Thelma Schoonmaker for Hugo winning, because she's just kind of awesome.

And the winner is... Kirk Baxter and Angus Wall (Girl with a Dragon Tatt00).

I am kind of, really surprised.

And, now I'm 1-8.

For Best Sound Editing, I had Drive and of course Hugo won.

This is not my night.

For Best Sound Mixing, I had War Horse (it's World War I, people!), but of course Hugo wins (Tom Fleischman and John Midgley).

And I drop to 1-9.

We've done 10/24 awards in an hour. I feel like the show is going to slow down considerably for the remainder of the show, not good for a telecast that already feels very slow.

Comedy bit...

Billy Crystal riffing on The Help win and lack of African Americans in Beverly Hills (closest one was 45 minutes outside of town).

And now a comedy bit starring Christopher Guest's comedy troupe on what if a focus group watched Wizard of Oz.
See, monkeys can fly!
I have always wondered why Glinda never did tell Dorothy to just click her heels together.

And, that was cute

Billy Crystal says that George Clooney is a good kisser, which Clooney does not argue with. I love Clooney.

Best Supporting Actress...

So weird hearing Christian Bale speak with his native accent. The only movies I've seen him use it in were when he was a kid (Henry V and Empire of the Sun).

Jessica Chastain's reaction with her mom was adorable.

And the winner is... Octavia Spencer. Wow!

I said that Melissa McCarthy would win, but wouldn't be sad if Octavia Spencer did. And, I'm not sad. But, I am 1-6.

Do they always give standing ovations when people win? I can't recall seeing that for the acting categories.

Allison Janney gets a shout out. And so does Spielberg. What did she do with Steven Spielberg?

45 minutes in, I feel like this is a very low-energy Oscars. It feels very meh. As my friend Kathy pointed out, it did start out with several awards that the general audience doesn't really care about.

Best Foreign Language Film...

Sandra Bullock is speaking Mandarin in a German accent. Not really getting that, but she's pimping the internationality of movies.

And A Separation wins! Yay! I had that one!

Now, I'm 1-5.

Achievement in Makeup

I missed something with Cameron Diaz and J-Lo, but I don't feel so bad because apparently, so did the Theater.

The winner is Mark Coulier and J. Roy Helland (The Iron Lady)

And, I'm 0-4, as I had Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2, though just before the winner was announced I did say that I wouldn't be surprised if Iron Lady won, and it did. So, I feel like I should get partial credit for that.

I am beginning to dig the little bits of the actors talking about their early movie-going experience.

Who takes their child to see Elephant Man?

And Barbra Streisand making an appearance? I feel like I haven't seen her in years.

Costume Design

So far, Billy's best jokes are mocking the Kodak Corporation.

No, I'm not going to see Titanic in 3-D, thanks for asking, but I would see Princess Bride in 3-D.

We're gonna need a bigger boat - Jaws (love that line!)

Okay, I loved the Best Scenes montage because I love those kinds of thing., but since I have a feeling we're going to run out of time when we get to the big categories, I feel like that could have been cut.

And the winner is... Mark Bridges (The Artist)

Of course, I had Hugo winning for this one (the one time I didn't have the Artist). So, now I'm 0-3 if you're keeping track at home (and really, who isn't?).

Achievement in Cinematography and Art Direction

Tom Hanks presents. Interesting that he introduced the early awards. Doesn't he usually do the later awards when he's presenting?

We met Carl, the seat-filler. Or, is he?

And the Oscar goes to Robert Richardson (Hugo).

I had The Artist. Oh well, I'm 0-1.

And now, Achievement in Art Direction...

And the Oscar goes to Hugo.

Once again, I had The Artist. Now, I'm 0-2. This is going against my belief that The Artist would roll up all these early awards leading to an easy call for Best Picture.

It's a Wonderful Time for Oscar...

And Morgan Freeman comes out to introduce the 2012 Academy Awards...

Leading into a Billy Crystal patented film montage...

Yeah, Justin Bieber is getting Billy the 12-17 demographic, not the 18-24 year olds...

Love The Help!

Okay, I'm a sap, but I love these montages. Though, Billy is so puffy.

His one-liners were dying until Chapte 11 Theater.

It's true, movies have always been there for us.

Yay Medley!

It's a wonderful time for Oscar...

The Artist...

War Horse...

Extremely Close & Incredibly Loud...

Moneyball...

Hugo...

Tree of Life...

The Descendants...

Midnight in Paris...

The Help...

They did indeed fit all nine, but I was less than impressed...

Your 2012 Academy Awards Nominations...

Below, are the nominations for the 2012 Academy Awards. My choices are in bold…

Best Picture

There were a slew of great movies this year and The Artist just nudges out The Help in my mind.

War Horse

The Artist

Moneyball

The Descendants

The Tree of Life

Midnight in Paris

The Help

Hugo

Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close

Best Actress

While I love Meryl Streep in everything, Viola Davis just inhabited her role.

Glenn Close, Albert Nobbs

Rooney Mara, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo

Viola Davis, The Help

Meryl Streep, The Iron Lady

Michelle Williams, My Week With Marilyn

Best Actor

Another toughy… I would put Jean Dujardin just ahead of George Clooney for Best Actor. He totally carried The Artist, and I don’t know that another actor could have done it so well.

Demian Bichir, A Better Life

George Clooney, The Descendants

Jean Dujardin, The Artist

Gary Oldman, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy

Brad Pitt, Moneyball

Supporting Actress

I think McCarthy is going to get it just so Bridesmaids gets something (and she’d deserve it, too), but if Octavia Spencer takes home the statue, I’d be okay with that.

Berenice Bejo, The Artist

Jessica Chastain, The Help

Melissa McCarthy, Bridesmaids

Janet McTeer, Albert Nobbs

Octavia Spencer, The Help

Supporting Actor

80-something Plummer versus 80-something von Snydow, with Plummer getting the win.

Kenneth Branagh, My Week With Marilyn

Jonah Hill, Moneyball

Nick Nolte, Warrior

Christopher Plummer, Beginners

Max von Sydow, Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close

Best Director

The Artist is going to win a ton of awards tonight, leading to its Best Picture victory.

Michel Hazanivicus, The Artist

Alexander Payne, The Descendants

Martin Scorsese, Hugo

Woody Allen, Midnight in Paris

Terrence Malick, The Tree of Life

Best Original Screenplay

I could see Wiig and Mumulo getting the win, but I do think this is Woody Allen’s year, and since he’s not getting the Director statue, I think they give him screenplay. It was his best film in 30 years.

Michel Hazanivicius, The Artist

Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumulo, Bridesmaids

Woody Allen, Midnight in Paris

J.C. Chandor, Margin Call

Asghar Farhadi, A Separation

Best Adapted Screenplay

Love Jim Rash in Community, so I hope he, Payne and Faxon get the win.

Alexander Payne, Nat Faxon and Jim Rash, The Descendants

John Logan, Hugo

George Clooney, Beau Willimon and Grant Heslov, The Ides of March

Steven Zaillian, Aaron Sorkin and Stan Chervin, Moneyball

Bridget O'Connor and Peter Straughan, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy

Best Foreign Feature

Admittedly, I know nothing of this category, but I’ve heard of A Separation, so I’m thinking it’s taking the victory.

Bullhead

Footnote

In Darkness

Monsieur Lazhar

A Separation

Best Animated Feature

Not a particularly good year for animation, or at least mainstream animation.

A Cat in Paris

Chico & Rita

Kung Fu Panda 2

Puss in Boots

Rango

Art Direction

The Artist was just gorgeous.

The Artist

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2

Hugo

Midnight in Paris

War Horse

Cinematography

The Artist was just gorgeously shot, though so was War Horse and Hugo and Tree of Life. Okay, another great category, but I think The Artist is going to be rolling downhill and collecting wins..

The Artist

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo

Hugo

The Tree of Life

War Horse

Costume Design

If Hugo doesn’t win, it’s going to be The Artist, because those costumes were gorgeous, but I just remember thinking about the costumes during Hugo (and it wasn’t because I was bored during the film).

Anonymous

The Artist

Hugo

Jane Eyre

W.E.

Documentary Feature

I was going to give this to Hell and Back Again, but Paradise Lost 3 has so many heavy hitters behind it, I’m leaning towards that.

Hell and Back Again

If a Tree Falls: A Story of the Earth Liberation Front

Paradise Lost 3: Purgatory

Pina

Undefeated

Documentary Short Subject

Who doesn’t love a documentary short about the Iraqi War?

The Barber of Birmingham: Foot Soldier of the Civil Rights Movement

God Is the Bigger Elvis

Incident in New Baghdad

Saving Face

The Tsunami and the Cherry Blossom

Film Editing

Though I would not be surprised if Bion and Hazanavicius win, I’m thinking it’s Thema Schoonmaker’s year. Just a hunch.

Anne-Sophie Bion and Michel Hazanavicius, The Artist

Kevin Tent, The Descendants

Kirk Baxter and Angus Wall, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo

Thelma Schoonmaker, Hugo

Christopher Tellefsen, Moneyball

Makeup

C’mon, Harry Potter has to win something, right? And, I still firmly believes it belongs up there with the Best Picture nominees.

Martial Corneville, Lynn Johnston and Matthew W. Mungle, Albert Nobbs

Edouard F. Henriques, Gregory Funk and Yolanda Toussieng, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2

Mark Coulier and J. Roy Helland, The Iron Lady

Music (Original Score)

The score helped sell the film; it’s gotta win.

John Williams, The Adventures of Tintin

Ludovic Bource, The Artist

Howard Shore, Hugo

Alberto Iglesias, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy

John Williams, War Horse

Music (Original Song)

Only two songs? Seriously? Muppets, for the win!

"Man or Muppet" from The Muppets, Bret McKenzie

"Real in Rio" from Rio, Sergio Mendes, Carlinhos Brown and Siedah Garrett

Sound Editing

I think Drive has to win something, and since this was the only thing it was nominated for (sorry, Albert Brooks), I think it wins.

Drive

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo

Hugo

Transformers: Dark Side of the Moon

War Horse

Sound Mixing

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo

Hugo

Monyeball

Transformers: Dark Side of the Moon

War Horse

Visual Effects

C’mon, Potter! Avenge the snub of Alan Rickman!

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2

Hugo

Real Steel

Rise of the Planet of the Apes

Transformers: Dark Side of the Moon

Short Film (Animated)

I know nothing of this category, so I threw a dart.

Dimanche/Sunday

The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore

La Luna

A Morning Stroll

Wild Life

Short Film (Live Action)

My second dart.

Pentecost

Raju

The Shore

Time Freak

Tuba Atlantic