Exploring the Vast Wasteland

And that's a wrap...

2011-09-18T21:59:00.003-05:00

Jane Lynch brought the telecast in exactly on time. That ought to make the affiliates happy.

All in all, a good show, with several surprises (COACH!) and some not so surprising (Modern Family's near sweep).

The telecast ran smoothly, but not sure how much water cooler talk there will be about it tomorrow.

As of this moment, seven of the top 10 trending topics on twitter are Emmy related.

So, there might be some chat tomorrow.

Best Comedy...

2011-09-18T21:51:00.003-05:00

Gwyneth Paltrow announces that the prompter is down and she is going to wing it. Her winging it consists of...

Here are the nominees...

And the Emmy Goes to Modern Family. Well, that was kind of written in the stars. I'm not a fervent viewer, but that's clearly going to have to change in the future.

And the entire cast comes up on stage as Steve Levitan makes another speech. Gives a special shout out to the kids that work on the show. Says the show almost was animated because that's how much they didn't want to work with kids. Gives an anecdote of how a couple of years ago a gay couple came up to them and said that they're just not making people laugh, they're making people tolerant. And, adds that it's about time an old man can be happy with a hot young woman and looking around the room, it's clear that many of the audience agree.

Outstanding Drama

2011-09-18T21:47:00.002-05:00

And now Maria Bello and William H. Macy (who worked together in The Killer) come out to introduce Outstanding Drama Series.

And the Emmy goes to Mad Men. Okay, I'm not mad. I did want Friday Night Lights to win, but you can't be upset at a Mad Men victory.

And, Matt Weiner accepts again...

Outstanding Movie or MIni-series

2011-09-18T21:40:00.002-05:00

Jane Lynch calls out Film Actors for doing television, taking the jobs of televsiion actors who have to voice videogames which are later made into movies using the very actors who put the television actors out of work. Hakuna Matata, Circle of Life.

And Don Cheadle announces the winner of Best Movie or Mini-series which is...

Downtown Abby

And Julian Fellows accepts again. Compares win to David and Goliath story, but says that Goliath was full of wonderful people. Admits that no one knows what will be a hit or not, but this evening came right.

Mini-series and Movies (Actor

2011-09-18T21:30:00.003-05:00

Anna Rotv and David Boreanaz come out to introduce Best Actor in a Movie or Mini-series.

Guy Pearce wins for Mildred Pierce (no relation). Shares award with Kate Winslet (who he got to have sex with Kate Winslet countless times). Also thanks his wife. Love his Australian accent. Thanks the cast and crew and Todd Haimes in particular.

Hugh Laurie and Clare Danes come out to introduce winner of Outstanding Actress in Movie or Mini-series.

And the winner is Kate Winslet. I'm not at all surprised. Oh, and Evan Rachel Wood runs down the aisle to hug her. That's cute. She hugs a very tall Hugh Laurie. She gives credit to Todd Haimes, HBO, the cast. And shares it with her mum, and says she'll never stop need her mum. Love the Britts.

Up next is Best Drama. Wow, they are making excellent time.

In Memorium...

2011-09-18T21:23:00.004-05:00

The president of the academy comes out to talk about the people who passed away, giving a special shout out to Stephen J. Cannell.

And various singers come out to sing Hallelujah (I do like that song)...

Barbara Billingley passed away? I must have forgotten about that.

And Jimmy Kimmel's Uncle Frank got a photo. That's nice.

Not sure I like the singers, as they keep taking time away from the In Memorium to show them singers, but that's not what this segment is about. So, the question is, who (if anyone) did they forget to include this year?

Ernst & Young Accountants

2011-09-18T21:17:00.002-05:00

Jane Lynch and Paula Abdul come out in a suit and tie and then introduce the real accountants.

They introduce Amy Poehler and Melissa McCartney who read off the teleprompter and say that they are glad that the male actors have finally been able to break through the glass ceiling, but warn them they should still be willing to show some skin.

Lead Actor

Barry Pepper wins for The Kennedys (I'm really surprised), but he was not there to accept in person, so Melissa uses that time to thank James Burrows.

Outstanding direction for mini-series, movie or dramatic special...
Brian Percival for Downtown Abby. Oooh... another British accent? Yes, and he is a low talker, so I'm reading his speech via the closed captioning. They are not very fast typists.

Mini-series and Movies (Writing and Supporting Actress)

2011-09-18T21:01:00.002-05:00

The Emmy-Tones are interrupted by LL Cool J who raps about movies and mini-series...

And the cast of Entourage explains why Jane Lynch is a lesbian announce the mini-series and movies category.

First up, writing... And the winner is Julian Fellows for Downtown Abby. Sorry, Stephen Moffat (though I do enjoy Sherlock).

And, it's true... Also thanks the American industry. Ten years ago it kicked off his second career with an Oscar and now it's nurtured it with an Emmy. British accents make everything sound better, even traditional thank you speeches.

And now, Best Supporting Actress in a movie or mini-series...

Dame Maggie Smith wins, but is unable to be there.

Wow, the cast of Entourage is tiny as the model/actress who is ushering them off-stage towers over them all.

New Jersey and Drama (Lead Actress; Lead Actor)

2011-09-18T20:49:00.003-05:00

Jane Lynch as a typical NJ resident who has made it her business to get Jersey in as much television as possible.

She takes credit for Jersey Shore, Real Housewives, Jersey Couture (Oxygen shout-out!)

And, now Bryan Cranston and Katie Holmes come out to announce Lead Actress in a Drama...

Connie Britton gets the loudest applause, but...

Julianna Marguilies wins. She wins for the 7th time...

Gives a shout out to the other nominees and then goes straight into thanking the producers, writers, cast, crew, agents, etc. She's clearly won before. But, that's okay, cause she's adorable. And, I don't think her dress is that bad. I'm kind of confussed by it, but it's not hideous.

And now Minka Kelly, Drew Barrymore and two others from the Charlies Angels announce Best Actor in a Drama..

And again, the FNL actor gets a strong applause, but not as much as

And, Kyle Chandler wins! Minka Kelly was so happy for him. AWESOME!!

Very awesome!! So, awesome!! No, I don't know the guy, but he's awesome. And, he didn't think he'd win, so he didn't write a speech. Thanks all the usual suspects, including the good folks at Austin, TX.

Footloose remake

2011-09-18T20:48:00.001-05:00

That thick Boston accent is not making me root for the main character at all.

I am very curious to see how it does.

Untitled Jersey City project...

2011-09-18T20:47:00.001-05:00

Okay, that commercial got me interested. Mainly to see how Audi is going to be part of the saving of the day.

Drama - Directing and supporting actor

2011-09-18T20:35:00.002-05:00

Loretta Devine and Paul McCrane (winners of Best Guest Actor and Actress in a Drama) come out to present...

Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series

Martin Scorcese wins for Boardwalk Empire (first win).
He has to talk even faster due to the count-down.

It's kind of hard to hear the Voice over guy who gives a brief fact, but I feel like they're funny. And, no, closed captioning doesn't help, because the captioner seems to miss every other sentence.

Kerry Washington and Jason O'Mara come out to read the list of side effects. Swelling of the ego, etc.

And now they introduce...

Outstanding Supporting actor in a drama series...

Peter Dinklage wins for Game of Thrones. I really have to watch this show. And the other nominees seem genuinely happy for him (except for Andre Braugher - who I continue to adore). I like that they had lowered the mic stand even before he got there. He is speaking very deliberately Gives a nice shout out to his dog sitter and the other nominees.

Drama Awards - Writing and Supporting Actress

2011-09-18T20:23:00.002-05:00

Jon Cryer and Ashton Kutcher

Kutcher does not think Cryer is a troll.

They announce the award for writers in a drama sereis...

YAY!!

Jason Katims wins for Friday Night Lights!!! OMG!!!!!eleventy!

I did not expect that. Gives a shout out to Connie Britton and Kyle Chandler in particular. YAY!!

Clear Eyes, Full Heart, Can't Lose! Believe it!

And now they announce the award for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series...

There are some good actresses out there...

And Margo Martindale wins for Justified. Didn't see that one coming either.

But, that may be because I don't watch the show. Which I clearly should watch.

Oh, and she's a Hey it's That Girl... Cause she's been in a bunch of stuff.

She says that sometimes these things take time. Oh, she's a cryer. But, she's kind of earned it. Gets in a laugh line when thanking a producer who killed her. And then she thanks another set of producers who gave her another job. Good stuff.

Commercial for Real Steel

2011-09-18T20:22:00.001-05:00

Is it me or is this pretty much a movie adaptation of Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots?

Just me?

Okay, then.

Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Series

2011-09-18T20:18:00.002-05:00

Scott Caan and Anna Paquin come out to say that the Daily SHow has won this for the last 8 years in a row and wish the rest of them luck. Which I guess is funny, but seems just mean spirited.

And, The Daily Show wins again. The VO guy says the show launched the career of Steven Colbert, Steve carrell and Ed Helms. Says he knows soon it will be Jon Stewart's time.

Jon Stewart says how great all of the nominees are and gives a special shout out to Stephen Colbert. Then says he hast to thank the Lonely Island guys for giving him something new to explain to his kids.

Michelle Lea and Ian Somerhalder announce

2011-09-18T20:16:00.003-05:00

Outsanding Directing for a Variety, Musical or Comedy Series

They were very low energy. Like, they were having a contest to see who could be more low energy, which if you ask me is an odd contest to have.

Don Roy King - SNL

Dedicates award to his 14 year old daughter.

Lonely Island and Michael Bolton perform medley...

2011-09-18T20:10:00.002-05:00

Missed the first song by Lonely Island.

It's not Gay in a three way (john Stamos, Maya Rudolph, Ed Helms)

The Lonely boys lost me until they freaked Bill Macy.

Akon comes out to do a bit of I Just had Sex.

Reality/Variety

2011-09-18T19:57:00.003-05:00

announced together, so they wouldn't cut the Emmytones song announcing the category.

Oooh, I like the purple dress Jane Lynch is wearing.

Reads off her gay agenda. Reach out to Rachel Maddow about spinning, change the oil in her truck and left the third thing in her fanny pack.

Introduces Kaley Kuoco and David Spade.

Outstanding Reality Competition program:

And Amazing Race wins again. Raise your hand if you're shocked. No hands? I didn't think so.

Wow, they brought up a baseball team.

Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music or Comedy series...

I love this part. When they announce the writers for the various show. They only had 15 seconds to get everyone's name in.

Colbert Report - They all shout out their names at same time and Stephen Colbert
SNL - Justin Timberlake was the picture for all of the names
Jimmy Fallon - cute dogs were the picture for all of the names
Daily Show - actual photos on the cover of Newsweek
Conan - Pulls one name out of a hat and it's his own name

And The Daily Show wins again. Color me shocked. But, I did dig their acceptance speech. One of the head writers read a written speech that sounded like it was written by a third grader as Jon Stewart was stopped from getting to the podium by the rest of the writers. It said that usually Jon Stewart checks their writing, but this time, he didn't.

When other shows visit the Office...

2011-09-18T19:51:00.002-05:00

Very funny...

Loved when Jesse delivered Crystal Meth to Creed.

Welcome back to the Modern Family Awards...

2011-09-18T19:39:00.002-05:00

or, so sayeth Jane Lynch. She introduces Charlie Sheen (who she was a therapist for).

Wishes the folks at Two and a Half Men nothing but the best for the upcoming season. They spent 8 wonderful years together and he knows they will continue to make great television.

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy

Jim Parsons from the Big Bang Theory

Oh, yay! I didn't think he'd win, but I do like him lots. He seems surprised to have won and gives a special shout out to Johnny Galecki.

Sophia Vergara and Rob Lowe come out to introduce Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy. They do a bit on how thick Lucy's accent was to Sophia growing up.

As they announce the nominees they each stand up and walk onstage. Amy Poehler got to go first and that must have been a bit of a moment for her until everyone in the audience got what was happening. And the women in the crowd stand up and start applauding. And now everyone is standing. Rob Lowe reminds them that no matter what happens, they're all winners.

And Melissa McCarthy wins. Whoah... I did not see that coming. And all the women surround her and kiss her and Rob Lowe gives her a tiara and roses, as Sofia puts the statue in her hand. She yells at the countdown clock and thanks her husband. And she starts to cry. She's from Plainfield, IL and to be standing there is kind of amazing.

That was very well done.

Jeffrey Richmond thanks John (Benjamin) Hickey in speech...

2011-09-18T19:36:00.001-05:00

It was only fitting, seeing as how Hickey thanked Richmond in his speech when he won a Tony Award this year.

And they're back...

2011-09-18T19:22:00.002-05:00

Jane Lynch comes out and immediately says she's bummed by the loss and introduces Ricky Gervais.

Who says he's not there because he's not allowed to attend any award shows. And then says that he's not allowed to badmouth anyone and if he does then the producers will just edit him and he'd never know. What follows is a bit of a rant, but every curse word leads to another word. He lost five times last year, and the other nominees were pure Shi-ndler's list was another movie, etc.

Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series...

Michael Allen Spiller - Modern Family

Zoey Deschanel and Will Arnett come out to introduce the nominees for Comedy writing. Will took over the teleprompter and attempts to tell a joke, but didn't have the punchline. Again, a little bit funnier than my explanation.

Steven Levitan and Jeffrey Richman - Modern Family

Wow, this is beginning to be a bit of runaway by Modern Family. Good and funny speech by the two writers.

Comedy Awards...

2011-09-18T19:11:00.003-05:00

Major props to the intro. clips for including never-to-be nominated Psych.

And, Jimmy Fallon and Jimmy Kimmel come out to introduce and both admit that they know The Daily Show is going to win. And, Kimmel tackles Fallon to great laughter and grabs Fallon's speech and reads it aloud. He thanks all you'd expect and then at the end, he thanks Jimmy Kimmel for always being there for him. And then Jimmy Fallon announces "the nominees," and promptly tackles Jimmy Kimmel.

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series...

Julie Bowen wins for Modern Family! I'm surprised. I would have put money on Sofia V. winning. And, just like that, I'm out of my pool. Dagnabit!

Juliana Marguilies comes out saying she's the funniest woman on television (said in a monotone). Says it's a pretty strong category, It's got that kid from Glee, that guy from Pretty In Pink and then four guys from Modern Family. If someone from Modern Family wins, that set is going to be awkward. Now, that is a good line.

And Ty Burrell wins. From Modern Family!! Wow, I'm getting slaughtered this year. I really, really thought that they would split the vote. He's giving a really nice speech. Says he got a late start in the business and his dad passed away before he ever saw him act. His father would just have a problem with the makeup, so he would tell his father to just think of him as a very masculine lady and to that he is sure his dad would reply, that he does. Okay, clearly my typing is not doing it justice, but it was a lovely speech.

Welcome to the 63rd Primetime Emmy Awards...

2011-09-18T19:00:00.002-05:00

A pre-taped bit with Leonard Nimoy and Jane Lynch. All tv stars live together in one building - animated, late night, sitcoms and dramas.

They hardly let Jane sing on Glee... so true.

TV is a Vast Wonderland... A pastiche of Disney songs.

Wandered past Entourage, Grey's anatomy, Big Bang Theory, American Idol, Bristol Palin in a monkey suit, Ron Swanson, Andy Richter, Mad Men (fast forward through the commercials - gets her kicked out of Mad Men offices - love it!)

She's selling it.

And Friday Night Lights!!!

Hey! Name dropped my blog! TV is a Vast Wasteland where Good ideas go to die.

Sue vs. Sue...

Good stuff...

And, she comes out of the So You Think You Can Dance dancers (?)

I think that is the first time I've seen her outside of a pantsuit.

Okay, that was fun. She seemed like she was pressing a bit, but overall, she put it over.

And now, she catcher her breath, and starts her monologue.

Talks about her nodding acquaintances, and introduces the Emmytones (I'm too far away from my computer to see who makes up the Emmytones) - we'll get to that later.

Just about to begin...

2011-09-18T18:44:00.001-05:00

And, yes, I'm very glad to see the end of the Red Carpet arrivals. The amount of insipid conversation is breathtaking.

New Girl Commercials...

2011-09-18T18:39:00.001-05:00

Okay, what's the over/under on the New Girl commercials? A show, which I've already added to my season pass, as the pilot was just that good.

Countdown to the 2011 Emmy Awards has begun...

2011-09-18T18:31:00.003-05:00

Now that the FOX late game (Cowboys vs. 49ers) has ended, the countdown to the Emmy Awards has begun. Now, I'm of the opinion that Neil Patrick Harris should host every awards show, but if he can't (what with infant twins at home), then we'll have to settle for another host. And, since Jane Lynch is the best thing about Glee, it's worth seeing if she is up to the task. She's hosted things before, but never anything on this scale. But then, the same could have been said about NPH before he hosted his first Tonys show. He had previously only hosted the TVLand awards. So, let's see how she does.

And now FOX has turned from sports to the red carpet arrivals, but I'm not sure how long I'll be able to stand watching it. I'll do my best. For you... the reader.

It's Emmy Time again!

2011-09-18T16:16:00.006-05:00

It's that time of year again... Time for the 2011 Emmy Awards. When the actors, writers, producers and below the line folks slap each other on the back and congratulate each other for creating great ways for people to waste time, and ignore what's happening in the world, even if only for 22 minutes at a time. However, I never miss it, as it is one of my most favorite nights of the year. I'm going to try to live -blog again this year, but in case I don't quite make it, here are my picks for the top awards. It includes both my picks and what the TV academy will choose in all their wisdom. Sometimes we agree, but more often we don't. Such is life.

Outstanding Comedy
Glee
30 Rock
Modern Family
Parks & Recreation
The Big Bang Theory
The Office

Who Should Win: Parks & Recreation
Who Will Win: Modern Family
Parks & Recreation is bar none the best comedy out there, but I get the feeling that the Academy still doesn't know it exists. And, Parks & Rec deserves it if only to make up for the horrible absence of Nick Offerman's Ron Swanson.

Outstanding Drama
Boardwalk Empire
Dexter
Friday Night Lights
Game of Thrones
Mad Men
The Good Wife

Who Should Win: Friday Night Lights
Who Will Win: Mad Men
I know, I know, all the pundits said that Mad Men had a great season, and I don't disagree, but Friday Night Lights made me laugh, cry and care about these characters. And, if I want Friday Night Lights to win so that the next network isn't afraid to take a chance on a show like this, then so be it. Mad Men will be around for another two years.

Outstanding Reality Show
American Idol (Fox)
Dancing with the Stars (ABC)
Project Runway (Lifetime)
So You Think You Can Dance (FOX)
The Amazing Race (CBS)
Top Chef (Bravo)

Who Should Win: Amazing Race
Who Will Win: Amazing Race
This is the only reality show that doesn't bore me at some point in the season, and the Academy clearly likes it.

Lead Actor in a Comedy
Alec Baldwin (30 Rock)
Jim Parsons (The Big Bang Theory)
Johnny Galecki (The Big Bang Theory)
Louis C.K. (Louie)
Matt LeBlanc (Episodes)
Stave Carrell (The Office)

Who Should Win: Louis C.K.
Who Will Win: Alec Baldwin
Since the Big Bang crew will probably split the vote, the voters probably don't see Louis as anything more than a stand-up comedian trying to act and I will be horrified if Matt LeBlanc gets, I think this is really a race between Baldwin and Carrell, and I think Baldwin takes it in a close one. Though, I would like Carrell to win it for his swan song. Over the past several years, he really made me like Michael Scott to the extent that I will miss this fictional character in this next season's The Office.

Lead Actress in a Comedy
Amy Poehler (Parks and Recreation)
Edie Falco (Nurse Jackie)
Laura Linney (The Big C)
Martha Plimpton (Raisint Hope)
Melissa McCarthy (Mike & Molly)

Who Should Win: Amy Poehler
Who Will Win: Laura Linney
An awful lot of Parks & Recreation creative success over the past two years can be attributed to the sheer likeability of Amy Poehler, but we all know how much the Academy likes their premium cable stars. That said, I would not be sad if Martha Plimpton wins it, because she's great on Raising Hope (as is the rest of that cast).

Supporting Actor in a Comedy
Chris Colfer (Glee)
Ed O'Neill (Modern Family)
Eric Stonestreet (Modern Family)
Jesse Tyler Ferguson (Modern Family)
Jon Cryer (Two and a Half Men)
Ty Burrell (Modern Family)

Who Should Win: Ed O'Neill
Who Will Win: Jon Cryer
This is a tough one. I really think that Modern Family will be splitting the vote, making it a race between Chris Colfer and Jon Cryer. I think Jon Cryer will win this as an atta-boy for having survived several years working with Charlie Sheen.

Supporting Actress in a Comedy
Betty White (Hot in Cleveland)
Jane Krakowski (30 Rock)
Jane Lynch (Glee)
Julie Bowen (Modern Family)
Kristen Wiig (Saturday Night Live)
Sofia Vergara (Modern Family)

Who Should Win: Jane Krakowski
Who Will Win: Sofia Vergara
Another tough category. I've like Julie Bowen since her "Ed" days, but I think in a head to head matchup with her co-star, Sofia Vergara wins it. Jane Lynch is often the best thing about Glee, but a little Sue Sylvester goes an awful long way, and I think they overused her this season. Though, she is hosting the awards show, and if she doesn't win, that could make for an awkward ceremony (as the supporting awards are usually the first to be announced. Fore me, its between Jane Krakowski and Kristen Wiig, and while Wiig is reliant on good sketches (which at times seem hard to come by on SNL), Krakowski has a more solid writing staff behind her, and so has a more solid output.

Lead Actor in a Drama
Hugh Laurie (House)
Jon Hamm (Mad Men)
Kyle Chandler (Friday Night Lights)
Michael C. Hall (Dexter)
Steve Buscemi (Boardwalk Empire)
Timothy Olyphant (Justified)

Who Should Win: Kyle Chandler
Who Will Win: Jon Hamm
I know Jon Hmm is great and I don't care. Kyle Chandler (and Connie Britton) were the reasons I tuned into Friday Night Lights, as Mr. and Mrs. Coach tied the show together. However, I readily admit that this is an awfully tough category, and I can make a case of any of the nominees to walk away with the statue.

Lead Actress in a Drama
Connie Britton (Friday Night LIghts)
Eisabeth Moss (Mad Men)
Julianna Margulies (The Good Wife)
Kathy Bates (Harry's Law)
Mariska Hargitay (Law & Order: SVU)
Mireille Enos (The Killing)

Who Should Win: Connie Britton
Who Will Win: Julianna Margulies
This is a horse race between Julianna Margulies and Elisabeth Moss, but since Margulies carries carries the show, I'm giving it to her. However, I do hope that Britton wins, because I will miss her Mrs. Coach. And, I don't see myself watching more than a couple of episodes of her new show on FX.

Supporting Actor in a Drama
Alan Cumming (THe Good Wife)
Andre Braugher (Men of a Certain Age)
Josh Charles (The Good Wife)
Peter Dinklage (Game of Thrones)
Walton Goggins (Justified)
John Slattery (Mad Men)

Who Should Win: Alan Cumming
Who Will Win: Walton Goggins
Another tough category. Ordinarily I'd give it to Alan Cumming because he always brings it, but I'm afraid he will split the vote with his co-star. As much as I'd like Andre Braugher to win, because he is routinely the best thing on-screen, I think Walton Goggins is going to take it home.

Supporting Actress in a Drama
Archie Panjabi (The Good Wife)
Christina Hendricks (Mad Men)
Christine Baranski (The Good Wife)
Kelly MacDonald (Boardwalk Empire)
Margo Martindale (Justified)
Michelle Forbes (The Killing)

Who Should Win: Archie Panjabi
Who Will Win: Kelly MacDonald
Okay, I'll say it, this has been a pretty good year for television, as once again we have a category that is hard to pick a winner of. Archie Panjabi won last year and while I would love to see her win again, I think she and Baranski are going to split the vote (which seems to be a pattern this year). Christina Hendricks is always good, but I think this season she plain didn't have enough to do. Kelly MacDonald will take the only acting award for Boardwalk Empire.

Great evening all around...

2011-06-12T22:07:00.004-05:00

We had the Mavs take out the Heat in the NBA Finals...

A fine Tonys broadcast that only went two minutes over.

The Glee Project premiered on Oxygen.

And Vh1 had new episodes of Mob Wives, Audrina and Saddle Ranch.

Neil Patrick Harris is adorable...

2011-06-12T22:03:00.001-05:00

but he shouldn't rap.

...

Okay, maybe he should.

...

It's really more slam poetry than rapping. And, he sold it.

It helps that it was really funny, and heartfelt.

Chris Rock introduces Best Musical

2011-06-12T21:56:00.003-05:00

He comes out with... If you had told me two years ago that I would miss the Best basketball game ever to hang out with Nathan Lane, I'd have told you, you were crazy. And yet, here I am...

Book of Mormon
Catch Me if You Can
Scottsboro Boys
Sister Act

And the winner is...

Book of Mormon.

Trey Parker accepts. We did this because we all secretly wanted to be part of a big happy Mormon family, and now we are.

He had to thank the co-writer who passed away. Joseph Smith. We did it!

Catherine Zeta Jones introduce

2011-06-12T21:47:00.002-05:00

In a play...

Brian Bedford - Importance of Being Earnest
Bobby Canavale - Mother$@()@ with a Hat
Joe Matello - Normal Heart
Al Pacino - Mercant of Venis
Mark Rylance - Jerusalem

This was always a fight between Mark Rylance and Joe Mantello. And the winner is Mark Rylance. He previously won in 2008 for Boeing, Boeing, a show I saw, but he was out that day. He is considered one of the great actors of his generation, and one I am determined to see one day. Hopefully, in Jerusalem. Loved his speech, even if I didn't quite get it.

In a musical...
Norbert Leo Butz - Catch Me If You Can
Josh Gad - Book of Mormon
Joshua Henry - Scottsboro Boys
Andrew Rannells - Book of Mormon
Tony Sheldon - Priscilla Queen of the Desert

So, the scuttlebutt on the street is that the two Book of Mormon actors split the vote. I've Norbert in a few things and he's great. I did not realize that Terrence McNally wrote the book. Huh... I like him.

Paul Schaefer

2011-06-12T21:41:00.002-05:00

introduces the original Weather Girl Martha Walsh to sing It's Raining Men.

He got his start in the Canada production of Godspell.

And, the cast of Priscilla the Queen of the Desert joins her onstage, as this song figures prominently in the show.

I was wondering why she was brought onstage, though she was fabulous.

I won tickets to Priscilla in a silent auction to benefit New Alternatives (a group that helps GLBTQ young people get a start in life). To donate to this great cause, click here... http://www.newalternativesnyc.org/

And, it's not fair that drag queens who are already taller than me wear heels better than me, as well. Then again, they practice more than I do.

Daniel Radcliffe introduces... Best Actress nominees

2011-06-12T21:32:00.002-05:00

In a Play
Nina Arianda
Frances McDormand
Lily Rabe
Vanessa Redgrave
Hannah Yelland

And the winner is Frances McDormand. Wow, this is her first win and only second nomination ever (in 1988 for Streetcar Named Desire). She spends the entire time thanking her other cast members and saying how great her playwright is. And, then she thanks her family (who watched her come and go for 30 years with funny wigs and dialects).

In a Musical
Sutton Foster
Beth Level
Patina Miller
Donna Murphy

And the winner is Sutton Foster. Second win (last won for Thoroughly Modern Millie). After thanking her current love Bobby Canavale and his son, she thanks her dresser who has been with her for 6 years, as he's leaving to pursue his dreams of being an artist in Cape Cod.

Tyne Daly introduces the In Memorium, starting with...

2011-06-12T21:26:00.002-05:00

Arthur Laurents
Michael Langham
Michael Gough
Eleln Stewart
James Gammon
Marcia Lewsi Bryan
Jill Clayburgh
Sidnesy Michaels
Hillard Elkins
Betty Garrett
Tom Bosely
Pam Gems
Israel Hicks
Shannon Tavarez
Douglas Leeds
Marian Mercer
Patrical Neal
Arthur Penn
Beverly Randolph
John Willis
Elizabeth Taylor
Jerry Bock
Tehoni V. Aldredge
Philip Rose
Romulus Linney
John Cossette
Alexander Speer
Sada Thompson
Helen Stenborg
Randall Wregitt
Landford Wilson
Joseph Stein

This is always nice, but I really wish the audience would hold their applause until the end.

Kelsey Grammer announces Best Revival of a Musical...

2011-06-12T21:24:00.002-05:00

Anything Goes
How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying

And the winner is Anything Goes...

Were there really only two revivals this year? Wow..

Okay, I'll see this show. Maybe half-price tickets are available at the TKTS booth. I might as well take advantage of working a block away.

Christie Brinkley introduces a scene from Company

2011-06-12T21:20:00.003-05:00

(soon coming to a movie theater near you)...

Side by Side (with Neil Patrick Harris, Stephen Colbert, Martha Plimpton, Patti LuPone, Jon Cryer, Christina Hendrickson)...

I saw this onstage at Lincoln Center, but I think I might go see it again, to see what I missed sitting in the cheap seats.

James Earl Jones and Vanessa Redgrave get standing O

2011-06-12T21:16:00.002-05:00

Well deserved. Always...

How great a voice does James Earl Jones have? Also, Vanessa Redgrave...

And now we have clips from the various plays...

Missed a few in the beginning, but here was a list of just a few of the people you could have seen on stage this season...

Denis O'Hare
Cherry Jones
Frances McDormand
Keifer Sutherland
Vanessa edgrave
Mark Rylance
Robin Williams
Pee Wee Herman
Judith Light
Ben Stiller
Brian Bedrord
Chris Rock
David Hyde Peirce
Ellen Barkin
Patrick Stewart
Kathleen Turner

Lifetime Achievement Awards given off camera...

2011-06-12T21:12:00.001-05:00

Can't PBS pick up the first hour of the Tonys or was this all streaming online somewhere?

Joel Grey introduces Anything Goes...

2011-06-12T21:05:00.002-05:00

My nephew really wants to see this. Although I know it's a classic American show, for whatever reason, it's not one of my favorite musicals, so i've put off seeing this, but this production of the tile tune is making me change my mind. Who doesn't love a good tap number? Plus, I totally agree with the Sutton Foster love and I adore me some Joel Grey.

Samuel L. Jackson announces Best Play

2011-06-12T21:02:00.004-05:00

But first, NPH says he saw the casts of Sister Act and Book of Mormon get in a fistfight. Oh my G-ds.

I NEED to see Sam L. Jackson as MLK, Jr. in Mountaintop whenever it opens.

But, anyway, the nominees are...

Good People
Jerusalem
The Mother@$@# with a Hat
War Horse

And the winner is... War Horse. I'm kind of surprised. I haven't seen any of these, except The Mother with a Hat, but I've heard mixed things about War Horse and haven't about Jerusalem. Both are English imports though.

And, now I have to see it.

Google's It Gets Better Commercial...

2011-06-12T20:58:00.002-05:00

Great commercial to air during the Tony Awards.

Last years Best Musical winner Memphis performs...

2011-06-12T20:53:00.002-05:00

Look, I agree that the Tony Awards use this night to sell themselves, but if one of the performances were cut down, maybe they can play up the Best Play nominees or you know, put some of the non-televised awards back on television.

That said, having the kids from one of the schools that benefit from the American Theater Wing dance in the aisles during this number was a great touch.

More Best Play nominees (and more)

2011-06-12T20:47:00.005-05:00

Bobby Cavanale introduces the Mother#@$@$ with a Hat, or as they're saying on the Awards show The Mother with a Hat.

Seth Numic introduces The War Horse, in front of Lincoln Center with one of the horses from the play. The horse is kind of amazing, and NPH rides one onto stage.

Ouch... Ironically, that entire horse is held together by glue.

Patrick Wilson introduces Best Revival of a Play...

Arcadia
Importance of Being Earnest
Merchant of Venice
The Normal Heart

And the Tony Award goes to The Normal Heart. SUCH A GOOD PRODUCTION! Producer Daryl Roth accepts the award, and in a nice speech thanked everyone finishing with Larry Kramer. Kramer gives his own speech and speaks to the gay audience out there.

I wonder if they're going to be doing a scene from Company...

2011-06-12T20:43:00.002-05:00

If Stephen Colbert, Christina Hendrickson and Jon Cryer are going to be performing, then they probably are. Plus, it'll be a great commercial for the movie theater screenings of the stage show.

Whoopi Goldberg introducing Sister Act (Final Best Musical nominee)...

2011-06-12T20:37:00.002-05:00

Every day on my way to work, I pass the box office for Sister Act and every day, there is a line of about a dozen people waiting on line for the box office to open. And yet, I haven't seen much buzz about it. Are people that excited about it because it's a known quantity? The musical number seems fun and I'm sure it's a good show, but of all the musicals I still need to see, this is in the middle of the pack (with Spiderman - ahead of The Addams Family, but well behind Book of Mormon and even Catch Me If You Can).

Jim Parsons!

2011-06-12T20:27:00.002-05:00

Jim Parsons was great in A Normal Heart (yes, I clearly adored that show).

He's introducing people who are introducing people talking about the Best Plays. I used to love when each Best Play nominee would air a scene.

Tate Donovan introduces Good People (which I would like to see)
Mark Rylance introduces Jerusalem (which I would also like to see)

And, now Robin Williams is on stage to introduce Best Book of a Musical, looking like Grizzly Adams (this is a nice room, the only beard in here is on my face. What a nice night. <- LOVE IT!)

Bloody, Bloody Andrew Jackson
Book of Mormon
Scottsboro Boys
Sister Act

And the winner is Matt Stone, Trey Parker and Robert Lopez for Book of Mormon. Matt Stone is apparently going to be speaking. Actually, all three spoke. Nice, low key speeches.

Edge and Bono come out to introduce a song from Spiderman...

2011-06-12T20:21:00.004-05:00

Bono says he used to be famous for being U2. Says he thought that when he was going

Spiderman Turn off the Dark is now set to open next Tuesday. Edge says they were ready last February, but wanted to get the excitement level up, especially for the New York Post. Bono goes on to say that now he realizes how hard people work in the business.

They introduce their Peter Parker and Mary Jane, who sing a sweet song, but it didn't blow me away. More the song, than their efforts.

Brooke Shields presenting an award.. Best Featured Actor in a Musical

2011-06-12T20:18:00.003-05:00

But, first she admits that she can't read a telep

Colman Domingo - Scottsboro Boys
Adam Godely - Anything Goes
John Larroequette - How to Succeed in Buesiness wihout really Trying
Forrest McClendon - Scottsboro Boys
Rory O'Malley - Book of Mormon

Very somber speech by Mr. L. He's thanking the producers. And, teared up a bit. Thanked the director. And, he thanks Daniel Radcliffe specially. And then he thanks his family.

Hugh Jackman!!

2011-06-12T20:08:00.002-05:00

LOVING the interplay between Jackman and Harris.

I only play the big rooms.

OOOH!

I can host any show better than you.

Viva Laughlin did not make them laugh.

I can dance any dance better than you.

You're the top.

Stephen Colbert introduces a song from Book of Mormon..

2011-06-12T20:02:00.002-05:00

Tries to get people to sit down. Hah!

I Believe sung is sung by Andrew Raynolds (who I think I saw at my office being interviewed by the host of Morning Buzz.

I did know that Mormons believed that ancient Jews built a boat and sailed to America. But, it would clarify the rumor that Native Americans are the ten lost tribes of Israel.

Wow, I do want to see this. I might have to suck it up and buy full price tickets. Which apparently will get me in to see this show sometime in February.

That was good...

Best Featured Actress in a Musical

2011-06-12T19:58:00.002-05:00

Laura Benanti - Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown
Tammy Blanchard - How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying
Victoria Clark - Sister Act
Nicki M. James - Book of Mormon
Patti LuPone - Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown

And the winner is Nicki M. James, who took a few seconds to compose herself (says she didn't even write a speech because she thought it was silly) And, she won't leave the stage. Gorgeous!

I was going to say that she was going on and on, until she thanked her father who had passed on, so that made me tear up.

Ted Chapin and Angela Lansbury

2011-06-12T19:55:00.002-05:00

come out to talk about what it is that the American Theater Wing actually does. I personally am a big fan of both the American Theater Wing podcasts and their tv show on CUNY TV.

Don Cheadle introduces Scottsboro Boys

2011-06-12T19:47:00.002-05:00

This was a musical I really wish I had seen when it was running. Maybe I'll be somewhere where the National Tour is running.

Wow, all of these actors have such amazing voices. I wish they would put up the names of the folks singing, as I'd love to follow their careers. Off to wikipedia I go (during the break, of course).

I wish there were ways for these more somber productions to have more of a life on Broadway, though I guess I am part of the problem, as I didn't go see it because I couldn't bring myself to see a somber musical (even though it clearly wasn't somber all the way through, as that was a pretty upbeat song). Bah, there's got to be a way for musicals to get past preconceived notions, such as a musical about the Scottsboro case is going to be somber, which is true, but the music is clearly not. More commercials? Do shows even have money for tv commercials?

David Hyde Pierce introduces Best Direction in a Musical

2011-06-12T19:41:00.002-05:00

Rob Ashford -
Kathleen Marshall - Anything Goes
Casey Nicholaw and Trey Parker - Book of Mormon
Susan Stroman - Scottsboro Boys

Trey Parker looks like he really wants to get in there and thank folks, but . There we go... He gets to speak and thanks the South Park fans.

Maryanne Elliot and Tom Morris - War Horse
JOel Grey & George C Wolfe - Normal Heart
Anna G. Shapiro - Mother%^&&^ with a Hat
Daniel Sullivan - Merchant of Venice

Maryanne Elliott and Tom Morris won for War Horse. Haven't seen it yet, even though it's happening a mere three blocks away at Lincoln Center. I've heard the story is a bit lacking (based on a children's book?), but the show itself is visually amazing. The puppetry alone is grand. And, I liked how they thanked each others significant others.

NPH takes on Spiderman in 30 seconds...

2011-06-12T19:40:00.001-05:00

And Bono and the Edge show they have a sense of humor. And, the jokes... not that bad.

Kathlenn Marshall won for Choerography...

2011-06-12T19:35:00.000-05:00

Also during the commercials. Bah!

Aaron Tveit doing Don't Break the Rules from Catch Me if You Can...

2011-06-12T19:30:00.002-05:00

With the whole ensemble...

Oh, this looks like fun. Haven't seen it yet, but it looks like an old school, happy musical.

Okay, based on this number, I just ordered a ticket on TDF.

I'll let you know what I think, but it looks good.

Viola Davis introducing Best Featured Actor in a Play

2011-06-12T19:27:00.003-05:00

McKenzie Crook - Jerusalem
Billy Crudup - Arcadia
John Benjamin Hickey - Normal Heart
Arian Modayed - Bengal Tiger
Yul Vazuez - The Mother @$#@ with a Hat

John Benjamin Hickey wins. He was fabulous in the role. Actually, the whole show was fabulous. It really made you want to make a difference.

I loved his call out to his family in Texas warning them not to be watching the Mavericks game.

John Leguizamo talking about his Broadway experience...

2011-06-12T19:23:00.002-05:00

I definitely want to see this show. Luckily, tickets are available.

I liked his Broadway moment. Gives hope to the actors and writers out there.

Book of Mormon wins Best Score...

2011-06-12T19:22:00.001-05:00

But, why on earth is that in the non-televised section.

We got a funny Equus joke by NPH. He just caught Daniel Radcliffe trying to poke out the eyes of one of the War Horses.

Great commercial for The Good Wife...

2011-06-12T19:21:00.000-05:00

Seriously, every commercial should focus on Kalinda (Archie Punjabi).

How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying...

2011-06-12T19:10:00.002-05:00

One of the Best revival nominees...

Matthew Broderick and Robert Morse are introducing the musical number...

Okay, so Daniel Radcliffe has a thin voice, but as I recall, so did Matthew Broderick when he played the role. He's also not tall...

But, I like him as an actor. Saw him in Equus two years ago and he was quite good in the role.

And I give him props for being able to open a show and keep it running. Cause How to Succeed isn't being discounted.

Best Featured Actress...

2011-06-12T19:06:00.002-05:00

Alec Baldwin is presenting the Best Featured Actress in a play.

Ellen Barkin - Normal Heart
Edie Falco - House of Blue Leaves
Judith LIght - Lombardi
Joanna Lumley - La Bette
Elizabeth Rodriguez - The Mother#$$@ with a Hat

Yay!

Ellen Barkin was ridiculously good.

It's STARTING!

2011-06-12T19:04:00.002-05:00

The 2011 Tony Awards...

Host Neil Patrick Harris is telling us that the theater is okay for straights again.

Okay, I liked it. Though I felt bad for Brooke Shields and always glad to see Stephen Colbert.

Good night for television...

2011-06-12T12:07:00.003-05:00

It's a crazy busy night for television today - somewhat odd for a summer night. On ABC at 9P, there's Game 6 of the NBA Finals (go Mavs!), on Oxygen at 9P, the series premiere of The Glee Project, the Tonys on CBS at 8P and, of course, Mob Wives/Audrina/Saddle Rance on VH1, starting at 8P. Think I'm going to watch the Finals, DVR the Tonys, and DVR the encores of Oxygen and Vh1 programming. Or, maybe I'll watch the Tonys and DVR the Finals. Then I can potentially live blog the Tonys.

And another Oscars live-blog comes to a close...

2011-02-27T23:45:00.002-05:00

All in all, I'm kind of underwhelmed. Sandra Bullock should host next year as she did a fine job with the ridiculous intros to the Best Actor nominee scenes. The Kings Speech cleaned up the important awards, as we all assumed it would. The Fighter took home both Best Supporting Performer awards. Inception grabbed a few of the techie awards and Toy Story 3 took the two awards I assumed it would - Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song. The Social Network's Aaron Sorkin got the Best Adapted Screenplay award which is all to the good, and I loved the speech by the winner of Best Original Screenplay award (David Seidler) as this man of an advanced age gave hope for the not yet crowd. And, Natlaie Portman did not go over the top in her speech, as she did at the Globes.

So, the winners did their part, but the writing, direction and (as much as it hurts to say this), the hosts left a lot to be desired (as I think James Franco realized and checked out, while Anne Hathaway (bless her heart) kept trying.

Best Picture...

2011-02-27T23:32:00.002-05:00

I miss the interspersed introductions that occur over the course of the evening. This montage over the sound of Colin Firth's final speech in The King's Speech is (as with the rest of the telecast) underwhelming.

And the winner is...

The Kings Speech (which I'm okay with, as I would have been okay with The Social Network).

I like that they brought up the actors and director with them. They didn't have to and it's nice that they were able to focus their thanks directly to the people themselves.

The final guy was about to get played off just as he thanks the UK Film Council. But, they lowered the volume.

James Franco realizes he's too good for this.

And, the kids from PS 22 play us out to the words of Somewhere Over the Rainbow. This is ... cute, but not sure why this is on my tv screen now. And all the winner come back onstage for one final round of applause. And Melissa Leo sings along with the kids. She rocks!

Best Actor...

2011-02-27T23:31:00.001-05:00

And, Sandra Bullock comes out wearing a lovely red gown..

In another ridiculously hard category. Still not loving the tiny speech that goes on before the scene, but Sandra Bullock is pulling it off.

Okay, I liked her little calling out of Jeff Bridges for being nominated two years in a row. And, I liked her reminding Jesse that he's never responded to her facebook friend request. And calling out James Franco for his current soap opera gig.

And the Oscar goes to...

Colin Firth for the Kings speech. I'm okay with this win. He was quite good.

And I'm digging his speech. He's about to cry, as he hems and haws like Mr. Darcy.

Someone on twitter just posted that Sandra Bullock should have hosted this year. I like that idea.

Best Actor...

2011-02-27T23:19:00.004-05:00

Best Actress...

2011-02-27T23:09:00.002-05:00

What's with James Franco rolling his eyes about the footsteps in Graumann's Chinese Theatre? I feel like he's bored. Well, so am I, and yet I don't roll my eyes.

Jeff Bridges has a nice voice.

While these little speeches by Jeff Bridges are sweet, they are slowing things down to a ridiculous degree.

The Oscar goes to...

Natalie Portman. She was very, very good. And this was a ridiculously hard category. I think any of the ladies could have/would have won, with the exception of Bening who was just very good. She's giving a very controlled speech, which is nice, as her Golden Globes speech was just OTT.

The Governor's Award...

2011-02-27T23:05:00.002-05:00

Annette Bening introduces the recap to the Governor's Award. Still bitter that none of this is televised. G-d forbid we get to hear them speak.

Best Director...

2011-02-27T23:00:00.002-05:00

Hilary Swank hands off to Kathryn Bigelow.

Tom Hooper wins for The Kings Speech. Okay, I said that would happen. I'm okay with it, even though I wanted David Fichner to win. Oooh... British.

The Brits are always completely nonplussed, aren't they? Unless they're about to become king.

In Memorium

2011-02-27T22:52:00.002-05:00

Celine Deion is singing a song over the In Memorium and I just don't like it.

But, I do appreciate that they seem to have cut the mikes of the audience, so there's no applause, or you can't hear the applause.

Still, it's so sad seeing all the great ones (and good ones) who have passed on this year.

And, Lena Horne gets the last spot. I was confused as to why she was only on the screen for a half a second, but it's because she got her own special section, introduced by Halle Berry that included a brief bio and song.

While, very nice, the placement of this was odd. It seems to minimize the importance of the previous people who had passed on. I feel like when they do these special In Memoriums, it's usually not attached to the regular one.

ALSO... WHERE WAS COREY HAIM.

Modern Family commercial = WIN

2011-02-27T22:51:00.001-05:00

That was a great commercial for Modern Family, but after seeing the commercial for Secret Millionaire at least a half dozen times, I have no desire to actually watch the show.

Best Original Song (for reals)...

2011-02-27T22:45:00.006-05:00

We Belong Together - Toy Story 3

I See the Light - Tangled

If I Rise - 127 Hours

Coming Home - Country Strong

And Randy Newman wins again for Toy Story 3.

So, this is his 80th win? Oh, his 2nd. Okay, that's not bad.

You can't blame Randy Newman for slowing this awards show down, for while he did blather quite a bit, still not the slowest part of the show.

We're in the home stretch now, and...

2011-02-27T22:45:00.003-05:00

I've gotta say, I'm kind of underwhelmed by these Oscars. It seems so low energy.

Best Original Song...

2011-02-27T22:40:00.002-05:00

Jennifer Hudson comes out looking striking in red and introduces two more songs nominated for Best Original Song

127 Hours

Country Strong - Gwyneth Paltrow

Meh... I think this was a race between Tangled and Toy Story 3, because both of these songs put me to sleep.

Billy Crystal gets a standing 'O'

2011-02-27T22:26:00.003-05:00

which I can understand. I also have a lot of respect for how Billy Crystal hosted the Oscars. He was amazing. I used to love his opening medleys.

I appreciate that Billy Crystal gives props to Bob Hope and I could believe that Bob Hope flipped him off. And, I totally called the Passover line.

I wonder who did the Bob Hope voice.

Jude Law and Robert Downey, Jr. introducing the special effect categories.

I LOVE how Downey can laugh at himself and his past foibles. See, there is hope for Charlie Sheen.

Outstanding Special Effects

Inception - taking home another techie award. Love their accents.

Outstanding Achievement in Film Editing

The Social Network wins. I like this win, as it was editing as much as anything else that told the story. Very low key speech, with another thanks to the Academy.

Movies via Auto Tune AND Best Documentary

2011-02-27T22:18:00.004-05:00

I know they're trying to young these down, but c'mon, this is a bit kooky. It's kind of like Lonely Island Goes to the Movies.

And Oprah announces the winner of Best Documentary Feature

Inside Job - not really surprised, as I'd assume a ton of the voters lost a lot of money due to the economy over the past few years. And, I'd heard it was quite good.

And the winner reminds everyone that after years of massive fraud no one went to jail.

But, no love for the unions. That kind of surprised me.

Best shorts

2011-02-27T22:08:00.003-05:00

Amy Adams and Jake Gyllenhaal. Jake suggests that we watch shorts in order to best fill out our Oscar ballots. Not as bad a reason as others he might have suggested.

Best Short Documentary
And the winner is Strangers No More. And, I really have nothing to say about this category because I've seen exactly none of them. But, their speech was nice. I like how Sheila Nevins (head of HBO documentary films) got a shout out.

Best Short - Live Action
And the Oscar goes to God of Love. I'm kind of surprised about that one, as it looks like a comedy, and all of the others seem to be. And the winner goes to NYU Grad School. And, is adorable. And quite possibly 12.

2011-02-27T22:02:00.003-05:00

Random folk are naming their favorite Best Song winners and why they like them. Lose Yourself from 8 Mile, Footloose, etc.

And the president picks a classic - As Time Goes By

Kevin Spacey sings Fred Astaire (Top Hat) before introducing the first two Best Original Song nominees.

The composers play their composition, while the voice talent sings along.

Toy Story 3 - Randy Newman (singing his own words)

Tangled - Alan Mecken, with Mandy Moore and Zachery Levi

Both were well done, but didn't leave me with overwhelming feelings.

Scientific and Technical Awards

2011-02-27T21:50:00.003-05:00

Marisa Tomei gives a recap of the science and technical awards, James Franco gives a shout out to the nerds and then Cate Blanchett comes out to announce Achievement in Makeup.

The Wolfman (which Cate Blanchett called "gross") wins. Though, I think she meant that in the nicest way possible. One of the winners said that it was always his ambition to lose an Oscar to Rick Baker, but this was better (as Rick lost to him this year).

Best Achievement in Costume design

Alice in Wonderland - yeah, I can see that. Wow, having to transverse stairs in heels on national television is completely mean. Oh, she wrote a speech. That's nice to see and leads you to not have to apologize for forgetting your husband's name after the fact. Though, she apparently writes very small, as that is not a large piece of paper and she's been speaking for a while. And, now she's getting the playoff music. Booo... lead the winners speak.

Sound Awards

2011-02-27T21:39:00.003-05:00

The Aussies are together again, as Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman present the sound awards. That was an amazing medley of great movie music.

Best Original Score

Social Network won...

Huh... I don't recall the music being overwhelming, but I'm usually not the most aurally aware. Though I do remember being surprised that Trent Reznor scored a movie. Though, I just looked on IMDB and he's done a lot of tv/film compositions.

Sound Mixing

I don't know what Matthew McConaghay said, but it made Kathy (who I'm watching with) groan.

Inception (Lora Hirschberg, Garry Rizzo, Ed Novick) won.

Yay, a woman won a techie award, which is rare. But, she doesn't get to speak (though she did mention that the sound crew were union folk).And the speaker did make mention that this award was for Chris Nolan (cause you know, he didn't get the director nomination).

Union count #2

Achievement in Sound Editing
Inception (Richard King)
Owes this 100% to Chris Nolan. Fair enough.

President of the Motion Picture Academy Tom Sherak

2011-02-27T21:37:00.002-05:00

gives a shout out to ABC as they've signed for another decade or so. I had hopes he would give a shout out to Duke Snider when he said he was a Brooklyn boy.

Best Supporting Actor...

2011-02-27T21:29:00.002-05:00

Reese Witherspoon introduces and gets right down to business.

I hope Christian Bale wins, but if John Hawk, Geoffrey Rush wins, well, that'd be okay too. I like Jeremy Renner and Mark Ruffalo too, but the other three were ridiculously good.

Who was sitting next to Spielberg not applauding?

Yay! Christian Bale won. Not digging the beard, but yay, he won. And, I love his real accent. And he calls out his own issues with the "F" word, while giving a shout out to Melissa Leo. Also appreciate the pimping for the real Dickie's training web site.

Actors never get played off. Aww... he started to tear up while thanking his wife and daughter.

Full of win.

Best Foreign Language film...

2011-02-27T21:26:00.003-05:00

Russell Brand and Helen Mirren are introducing...

Helen Mirren is speaking French and Russell is "translating." Called out Colin Firth as being a better Queen than he was a King. Of course, she didn't say that and explains so, also in French.

In a Better World (Denmark) wins.

Third movie from Denmark to win this category. Good to know.

Anne Hathaway is funny...

2011-02-27T21:22:00.002-05:00

Calling out Hugh Jackman via On My Own. At least Hugh seems to be taking it in stride.

I assume he was told about it.

And James Franco doing drag as Marilyn. And, calls out Charlie Sheen.

Best Original Screenplay...

2011-02-27T21:17:00.002-05:00

Javier Bardem is laughing with/at someone in the audience.

And the Oscar goes to King's Speech. David Seidler can't find the microphone. But, his opening line is great. "My father always said that I would be a late bloomer." He gives all of us wanna-be writers hope. He wrote Tucker: A Man and his Dream, and was a writer on Another World.

Loved his speech. But, he was another one to make a point of thanking the Academy as the last thing he said. It seems very pointed and odd.

Best Adapted screenplay...

2011-02-27T21:14:00.003-05:00

Let's go Aaron Sorkin!

Yay!!

Syracuse alum Aaron Sorkin takes home the Oscar gold. Shout out to Paddy Chayefsky and the guy who wrote the book the movie was based on.

Don't play Aaron Sorkin off, Mr. music-man.

He's thanking the folks who made the movie, without whom, you wouldn't have an awards ceremony.

And, his last line to his daughter was cute.

A look back...

2011-02-27T21:08:00.002-05:00

At the first Academy Awards. Except, not really, as it was a pretense to bring out Josh Brolin and Javier Bardem. What's up with all of the current nominees presenting today? Is that so James Franco hosting doesn't look so odd?

Ahhh... it's a pretense for the Best Writing categories.

Best Animated Feature...

2011-02-27T21:05:00.002-05:00

I really want to see the Illusionist, but it came and went in like a day. And, my nephews like How to Train Your Dragon.

And the Oscar goes to...

Toy Story 3

Totally called it.

What's up with all the Academy shout outs?

I can totally believe that Pixar is the best place to work.

Love his speech. Just very Oscar-ish.

Best Animated Short...

2011-02-27T21:01:00.002-05:00

Justin Timberlake is Banksy...
Mila Kunis is gorgeous.

I hope The Gruffalo wins. Great book.

And the Oscar goes to...

The Lost Thing. Awww... poor Best Animated short nominees, all the way in the back of the teater. And the animation style does look very cool.

Wow, Shaun Tan is very short. And the other guy is very tall (or feels very tall) next to the other guy.

Best Supporting Actress...

2011-02-27T20:51:00.003-05:00

Awww... I like Kirk Douglas. He had his Bar Mitzvah (or a Bar Mitzvah) at the age of 83. And, while the stroke clearly affected his speech, it did not effect his sense of humor.

Okay, he's going on a bit, but still, can you blame him? He's old.
And the Oscar goes to...

Melissa Leo. Yay!! SHe looks shocked. And, shook Amy Adams' hand. And bowed to Kirk Douglas. Awww.... I'm so happy for the Homicide alum. And flirts with Kirk Douglas...

LOVE!

And, I like her speech. She's also taking it all in. Waves to the folks up in the cheap seats. And gets bleeped for cursing. Awww... Thanks the folks who the movie portrayed. And her family and friends.

Just full of win.

Cinematography...

2011-02-27T20:46:00.002-05:00

Wally Fister for Inception wins!

I think I called it. Yep, i just checked. I called it. Also, I like that he took a moment to breathe it all in. And, gives the shout-out to Christopher Nolan. And calls out the audience for taking his time.

First union shout out of the evening. I meant to note that there was going to be a count on how many folks reference unions in their speech.

Union count: 1

Art Direction

2011-02-27T20:44:00.001-05:00

Alice in Wonderland...

I really thought Inception would take this one. Oh, well...

Wow, the speaker is really nervous, but I did like the crown.

Opening banter...

2011-02-27T20:38:00.002-05:00

I'm gonna go with meh...

The bit with the mother and grandmother was okay...

The lesbian bit, eh...

I'm really confused. What does Tom Hanks have to do with Gone with the Wind?

Oh! It's the introduction to the visual awards. Still, not sure what he has to do with that film. Also, boo! Titanic (except for Victor Garber scenes).

And the nominees are...

Art Direction

* “Alice in Wonderland”
Production Design: Robert Stromberg; Set Decoration: Karen O'Hara
* “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1”
Production Design: Stuart Craig; Set Decoration: Stephenie McMillan
* “Inception”
Production Design: Guy Hendrix Dyas; Set Decoration: Larry Dias and Doug Mowat
* “The King's Speech”
Production Design: Eve Stewart; Set Decoration: Judy Farr
* “True Grit”
Production Design: Jess Gonchor; Set Decoration: Nancy Haigh

Cinematography

* “Black Swan” Matthew Libatique
* “Inception” Wally Pfister
* “The King's Speech” Danny Cohen
* “The Social Network” Jeff Cronenweth
* “True Grit” Roger Deakins

Visual Effects

* “Alice in Wonderland” Ken Ralston, David Schaub, Carey Villegas and Sean Phillips
* “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1” Tim Burke, John Richardson, Christian Manz and Nicolas Aithadi
* “Hereafter” Michael Owens, Bryan Grill, Stephan Trojansky and Joe Farrell
* “Inception” Paul Franklin, Chris Corbould, Andrew Lockley and Peter Bebb
* “Iron Man 2” Janek Sirrs, Ben Snow, Ged Wright and Daniel Sudick

Reading the teleprompter...

2011-02-27T20:37:00.000-05:00

Now, lets see how well they can read the teleprompter...

Really digging this opening segment...

2011-02-27T20:31:00.002-05:00

My co-viewer, Kathy Choe, disagrees, but I find this opening very funny. Anne Hathaway and James Franco are very engaging. And, I'm a sucker for nearly seamless use of green screens.

And, bringing back the Delorean. Love that...

It has begun!

2011-02-27T20:30:00.001-05:00

Opening segment - a countdown of the Best Picture nominees...

I wonder how Anne and James will be introduced...