Sunday, June 12, 2011
NPH takes on Spiderman in 30 seconds...
And Bono and the Edge show they have a sense of humor. And, the jokes... not that bad.
Aaron Tveit doing Don't Break the Rules from Catch Me if You Can...
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.
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
McKenzie Crook - Jerusalem
Billy Crudup - Arcadia
John Benjamin Hickey - Normal Heart
Arian Modayed - Bengal Tiger
Yul Vazuez - The Mother @$#@ with a Hat
John Benjamin Hickey wins. He was fabulous in the role. Actually, the whole show was fabulous. It really made you want to make a difference.
I loved his call out to his family in Texas warning them not to be watching the Mavericks game.
Billy Crudup - Arcadia
John Benjamin Hickey - Normal Heart
Arian Modayed - Bengal Tiger
Yul Vazuez - The Mother @$#@ 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...
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.
I liked his Broadway moment. Gives hope to the actors and writers out there.
Book of Mormon wins Best Score...
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.
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...
Seriously, every commercial should focus on Kalinda (Archie Punjabi).
How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying...
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.
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...
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#$$@ with a Hat
Yay!
Ellen Barkin was ridiculously good.
Ellen Barkin - Normal Heart
Edie Falco - House of Blue Leaves
Judith LIght - Lombardi
Joanna Lumley - La Bette
Elizabeth Rodriguez - The Mother#$$@ with a Hat
Yay!
Ellen Barkin was ridiculously good.
It's STARTING!
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.
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...
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.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
And another Oscars live-blog comes to a close...
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.
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...
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!
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...
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.
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...
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.
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 Actress...
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.
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...
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...
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.
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
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.
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
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)...
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.
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...
I've gotta say, I'm kind of underwhelmed by these Oscars. It seems so low energy.
Best Original Song...
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.
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'
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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...
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.
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...
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.
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...
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.
I assume he was told about it.
And James Franco doing drag as Marilyn. And, calls out Charlie Sheen.
Best Original Screenplay...
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.
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...
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.
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...
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.
Ahhh... it's a pretense for the Best Writing categories.
Best Animated Feature...
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.
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...
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.
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...
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.
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...
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
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
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.
I really thought Inception would take this one. Oh, well...
Wow, the speaker is really nervous, but I did like the crown.
Opening banter...
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
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
Really digging this opening segment...
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...
And, bringing back the Delorean. Love that...
It has begun!
Opening segment - a countdown of the Best Picture nominees...
I wonder how Anne and James will be introduced...
I wonder how Anne and James will be introduced...
Oscars 2011
It's that time of year again... Time for the 83rd Academy Awards... hosted by James Franco and Anne Hathaway. Both are intriguing choices for hosts, neither are comedians, though that doesn't always work (ref: David Letterman) and both are incredibly likeable.
Without further ado, below, please find the listing of nominees (with my choices bolded, natch and what will probably win in italics). To this point, I have seen all best picture nominees with the exception of Inception and 127 Hours. Inception because I just haven't gotten to it yet, and 127 Hours because I don't think I'll be able handle the arm cutting scene.
Best Motion Picture
Black Swan
The Fighter
Inception
The King’s Speech
The Kids are All Right
The Social Network
127 Hours
Toy Story 3
True Grit
Winter’s Bone
The Kings Speech has been racking up all the recent awards, and not only was it quite good, but I really enjoyed it. That said, I really thought The Social Network was a masterful film. HOwever, I wouldn't be annoyed if The Fighter, Winters Bone, True Grit or The King's Speech won. This was a great year for movies, though I do wonder which will stand the test of time.
Best Actress In A Leading Role
ANNETTE BENING-THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT
NICOLE KIDMAN – RABBIT HOLE
JENNIFER LAWRENCE – WINTER’S BONE
NATALIE PORTMAN – BLACK SWAN
MICHELLE WILLIAMS – BLUE VALENTINE
Haven't seen Blue Valentine yet, but I won't be miffed if either Jennifer Lawrence, Natalie Portman or Michelle Williams wins. I heard she was that good.
Best Actor In A Leading Role
JESSE EISENBERG – THE SOCIAL NETWORK
COLIN FIRTH – THE KING’S SPEECH
JAMES FRANCO – 127 HOURS
JEFF BRIDGES – TRUE GRIT
Javier Bardem – BEAUTIFUL
Another ridiculously tough category. Jeff Bridges was great in True Grit, and Colin Firth was wonderful as the stammering Bertie. But, there was just something about Jesse Eisenberg's performance that I just adored.
Best Actress In A Supporting Role
AMY ADAMS – THE FIGHTER
HELENA BONHAM CARTER – THE KING’S SPEECH
JACKI WEAVER – ANIMAL KINGDOM
MELISSA LEO – THE FIGHTER
HAILEE STEINFELD – TRUE GRIT
I think it's a legitimate toss-up between Leo and Steinfeld, but I always feel that the best supporting actor award is give to the young actor. I though Amy Adams was good in The Fighter, mostly holding her own in her scenes with Leo. also heard very good things about Jacki Weaver in Animal Kingdom, though I have not seen that yet.
Best Actor In A Supporting Role
CHRISTIAN BALE – THE FIGHTER
JOHN HAWKES– WINTER’S BONE
JEREMY RENNER – THE TOWN
GEOFFREY RUSH – THE KING’S SPEECH
MARK RUFFALO – THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT
Christian Bale was just smashing. I don't care that he's got quite the temper on him, he can act the heck out of his movies.
Achievement in Directing
DARREN ARONOFSKY – BLACK SWAN
DAVID FINCHER -THE SOCIAL NETWORK
TOM HOOPER – THE KING’S SPEECH
JOEL COEN, ETHAN COEN – TRUE GRIT
DAVID O. RUSSELL – THE FIGHTER
I think this will go the same way as Best Picture in that The Kings Speech will win, but honestly, any of these can win and I'll be content.
ADAPTED SCREENPLAY
127 Hours
The Social Network
Toy Story 3
True Grit
Winters Bone
This wasn't actually included in the ballot I copied and pasted from, but I really want Aaron Sorkin to win, and I think he will be. That said, similar to best picture/director, I'd be okay with any of the winners.
Animated Feature Film
How to Train Yor Dragon Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois
The Illusionist” Sylvain Chomet
Toy Story 3 Lee Unkrich
Since it's not going to win Best Picture, Toy Story 3 will notch another victory for Pixar.
Cinematography
“Black Swan” Matthew Libatique
“Inception” Wally Pfister
“The King's Speech” Danny Cohen
“The Social Network” Jeff Cronenweth
“True Grit” Roger Deakins
This will probably be taken by either Inception or Black Swan. I'm thinking they're going to give it to Inception, sort of as a make-up for the dis in the Best Director category.
Writing (Original Screenplay)
* “Another Year” Written by Mike Leigh
* “The Fighter” Screenplay by Scott Silver and Paul Tamasy & Eric Johnson;
Story by Keith Dorrington & Paul Tamasy & Eric Johnson
* “Inception” Written by Christopher Nolan
* “The Kids Are All Right” Written by Lisa Cholodenko & Stuart Blumberg
* “The King's Speech” Screenplay by David Seidler
Yes, The Fighter could have been a generic sports story, but it was so much more. You really got to know the characters and the place, and while a lot of that credit goes to the director and actors, it always starts on the page.
And, the rest of the categories which quite frankly, I'm too lazy to go through. Though, in my own defense, I only decided to bring back the Oscar live-blog about an hour ago.
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
Another tough category. I'm leaning towards Harry Potter or Inception.
Cinematography
* “Black Swan” Matthew Libatique
* “Inception” Wally Pfister
* “The King's Speech” Danny Cohen
* “The Social Network” Jeff Cronenweth
* “True Grit” Roger Deakins
Costume Design
* “Alice in Wonderland” Colleen Atwood
* “I Am Love” Antonella Cannarozzi
* “The King's Speech” Jenny Beavan
* “The Tempest” Sandy Powell
* “True Grit” Mary Zophres
Documentary (Feature)
* “Exit through the Gift Shop” Banksy and Jaimie D'Cruz
* “Gasland” Josh Fox and Trish Adlesic
* “Inside Job” Charles Ferguson and Audrey Marrs
* “Restrepo” Tim Hetherington and Sebastian Junger
* “Waste Land” Lucy Walker and Angus Aynsley
Documentary (Short Subject)
* “Killing in the Name” Jed Rothstein
* “Poster Girl” Sara Nesson and Mitchell W. Block
* “Strangers No More” Karen Goodman and Kirk Simon
* “Sun Come Up” Jennifer Redfearn and Tim Metzger
* “The Warriors of Qiugang” Ruby Yang and Thomas Lennon
Film Editing
* “Black Swan” Andrew Weisblum
* “The Fighter” Pamela Martin
* “The King's Speech” Tariq Anwar
* “127 Hours” Jon Harris
* “The Social Network” Angus Wall and Kirk Baxter
Foreign Language Film
* “Biutiful” Mexico
* “Dogtooth” Greece
* “In a Better World” Denmark
* “Incendies” Canada
* “Outside the Law (Hors-la-loi)” Algeria
Makeup
* “Barney's Version” Adrien Morot
* “The Way Back” Edouard F. Henriques, Gregory Funk and Yolanda Toussieng
* “The Wolfman” Rick Baker and Dave Elsey
Music (Original Score)
* “How to Train Your Dragon” John Powell
* “Inception” Hans Zimmer
* “The King's Speech” Alexandre Desplat
* “127 Hours” A.R. Rahman
* “The Social Network” Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross
Music (Original Song)
* “Coming Home” from “Country Strong” Music and Lyric by Tom Douglas, Troy Verges and Hillary Lindsey
* “I See the Light” from “Tangled” Music by Alan Menken Lyric by Glenn Slater
* “If I Rise” from “127 Hours” Music by A.R. Rahman Lyric by Dido and Rollo Armstrong
* “We Belong Together” from “Toy Story 3" Music and Lyric by Randy Newman
Short Film (Animated)
* “Day & Night” Teddy Newton
* “The Gruffalo” Jakob Schuh and Max Lang
* “Let's Pollute” Geefwee Boedoe
* “The Lost Thing” Shaun Tan and Andrew Ruhemann
* “Madagascar, carnet de voyage (Madagascar, a Journey Diary)” Bastien Dubois
Short Film (Live Action)
* “The Confession” Tanel Toom
* “The Crush” Michael Creagh
* “God of Love” Luke Matheny
* “Na Wewe” Ivan Goldschmidt
* “Wish 143” Ian Barnes and Samantha Waite
Sound Editing
* “Inception” Richard King
* “Toy Story 3” Tom Myers and Michael Silvers
* “Tron: Legacy” Gwendolyn Yates Whittle and Addison Teague
* “True Grit” Skip Lievsay and Craig Berkey
* “Unstoppable” Mark P. Stoeckinger
Sound Mixing
* “Inception” Lora Hirschberg, Gary A. Rizzo and Ed Novick
* “The King's Speech” Paul Hamblin, Martin Jensen and John Midgley
* “Salt” Jeffrey J. Haboush, Greg P. Russell, Scott Millan and William Sarokin
* “The Social Network” Ren Klyce, David Parker, Michael Semanick and Mark Weingarten
* “True Grit” Skip Lievsay, Craig Berkey, Greg Orloff and Peter F. Kurland
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
So, all in all, a particularly tough year for the voters as there were a slew of really good movies. I'll leave it to time to see which will be considered great.
Without further ado, below, please find the listing of nominees (with my choices bolded, natch and what will probably win in italics). To this point, I have seen all best picture nominees with the exception of Inception and 127 Hours. Inception because I just haven't gotten to it yet, and 127 Hours because I don't think I'll be able handle the arm cutting scene.
Best Motion Picture
Black Swan
The Fighter
Inception
The King’s Speech
The Kids are All Right
The Social Network
127 Hours
Toy Story 3
True Grit
Winter’s Bone
The Kings Speech has been racking up all the recent awards, and not only was it quite good, but I really enjoyed it. That said, I really thought The Social Network was a masterful film. HOwever, I wouldn't be annoyed if The Fighter, Winters Bone, True Grit or The King's Speech won. This was a great year for movies, though I do wonder which will stand the test of time.
Best Actress In A Leading Role
ANNETTE BENING-THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT
NICOLE KIDMAN – RABBIT HOLE
JENNIFER LAWRENCE – WINTER’S BONE
NATALIE PORTMAN – BLACK SWAN
MICHELLE WILLIAMS – BLUE VALENTINE
Haven't seen Blue Valentine yet, but I won't be miffed if either Jennifer Lawrence, Natalie Portman or Michelle Williams wins. I heard she was that good.
Best Actor In A Leading Role
JESSE EISENBERG – THE SOCIAL NETWORK
COLIN FIRTH – THE KING’S SPEECH
JAMES FRANCO – 127 HOURS
JEFF BRIDGES – TRUE GRIT
Javier Bardem – BEAUTIFUL
Another ridiculously tough category. Jeff Bridges was great in True Grit, and Colin Firth was wonderful as the stammering Bertie. But, there was just something about Jesse Eisenberg's performance that I just adored.
Best Actress In A Supporting Role
AMY ADAMS – THE FIGHTER
HELENA BONHAM CARTER – THE KING’S SPEECH
JACKI WEAVER – ANIMAL KINGDOM
MELISSA LEO – THE FIGHTER
HAILEE STEINFELD – TRUE GRIT
I think it's a legitimate toss-up between Leo and Steinfeld, but I always feel that the best supporting actor award is give to the young actor. I though Amy Adams was good in The Fighter, mostly holding her own in her scenes with Leo. also heard very good things about Jacki Weaver in Animal Kingdom, though I have not seen that yet.
Best Actor In A Supporting Role
CHRISTIAN BALE – THE FIGHTER
JOHN HAWKES– WINTER’S BONE
JEREMY RENNER – THE TOWN
GEOFFREY RUSH – THE KING’S SPEECH
MARK RUFFALO – THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT
Christian Bale was just smashing. I don't care that he's got quite the temper on him, he can act the heck out of his movies.
Achievement in Directing
DARREN ARONOFSKY – BLACK SWAN
DAVID FINCHER -THE SOCIAL NETWORK
TOM HOOPER – THE KING’S SPEECH
JOEL COEN, ETHAN COEN – TRUE GRIT
DAVID O. RUSSELL – THE FIGHTER
I think this will go the same way as Best Picture in that The Kings Speech will win, but honestly, any of these can win and I'll be content.
ADAPTED SCREENPLAY
127 Hours
The Social Network
Toy Story 3
True Grit
Winters Bone
This wasn't actually included in the ballot I copied and pasted from, but I really want Aaron Sorkin to win, and I think he will be. That said, similar to best picture/director, I'd be okay with any of the winners.
Animated Feature Film
How to Train Yor Dragon Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois
The Illusionist” Sylvain Chomet
Toy Story 3 Lee Unkrich
Since it's not going to win Best Picture, Toy Story 3 will notch another victory for Pixar.
Cinematography
“Black Swan” Matthew Libatique
“Inception” Wally Pfister
“The King's Speech” Danny Cohen
“The Social Network” Jeff Cronenweth
“True Grit” Roger Deakins
This will probably be taken by either Inception or Black Swan. I'm thinking they're going to give it to Inception, sort of as a make-up for the dis in the Best Director category.
Writing (Original Screenplay)
* “Another Year” Written by Mike Leigh
* “The Fighter” Screenplay by Scott Silver and Paul Tamasy & Eric Johnson;
Story by Keith Dorrington & Paul Tamasy & Eric Johnson
* “Inception” Written by Christopher Nolan
* “The Kids Are All Right” Written by Lisa Cholodenko & Stuart Blumberg
* “The King's Speech” Screenplay by David Seidler
Yes, The Fighter could have been a generic sports story, but it was so much more. You really got to know the characters and the place, and while a lot of that credit goes to the director and actors, it always starts on the page.
And, the rest of the categories which quite frankly, I'm too lazy to go through. Though, in my own defense, I only decided to bring back the Oscar live-blog about an hour ago.
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
Another tough category. I'm leaning towards Harry Potter or Inception.
Cinematography
* “Black Swan” Matthew Libatique
* “Inception” Wally Pfister
* “The King's Speech” Danny Cohen
* “The Social Network” Jeff Cronenweth
* “True Grit” Roger Deakins
Costume Design
* “Alice in Wonderland” Colleen Atwood
* “I Am Love” Antonella Cannarozzi
* “The King's Speech” Jenny Beavan
* “The Tempest” Sandy Powell
* “True Grit” Mary Zophres
Documentary (Feature)
* “Exit through the Gift Shop” Banksy and Jaimie D'Cruz
* “Gasland” Josh Fox and Trish Adlesic
* “Inside Job” Charles Ferguson and Audrey Marrs
* “Restrepo” Tim Hetherington and Sebastian Junger
* “Waste Land” Lucy Walker and Angus Aynsley
Documentary (Short Subject)
* “Killing in the Name” Jed Rothstein
* “Poster Girl” Sara Nesson and Mitchell W. Block
* “Strangers No More” Karen Goodman and Kirk Simon
* “Sun Come Up” Jennifer Redfearn and Tim Metzger
* “The Warriors of Qiugang” Ruby Yang and Thomas Lennon
Film Editing
* “Black Swan” Andrew Weisblum
* “The Fighter” Pamela Martin
* “The King's Speech” Tariq Anwar
* “127 Hours” Jon Harris
* “The Social Network” Angus Wall and Kirk Baxter
Foreign Language Film
* “Biutiful” Mexico
* “Dogtooth” Greece
* “In a Better World” Denmark
* “Incendies” Canada
* “Outside the Law (Hors-la-loi)” Algeria
Makeup
* “Barney's Version” Adrien Morot
* “The Way Back” Edouard F. Henriques, Gregory Funk and Yolanda Toussieng
* “The Wolfman” Rick Baker and Dave Elsey
Music (Original Score)
* “How to Train Your Dragon” John Powell
* “Inception” Hans Zimmer
* “The King's Speech” Alexandre Desplat
* “127 Hours” A.R. Rahman
* “The Social Network” Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross
Music (Original Song)
* “Coming Home” from “Country Strong” Music and Lyric by Tom Douglas, Troy Verges and Hillary Lindsey
* “I See the Light” from “Tangled” Music by Alan Menken Lyric by Glenn Slater
* “If I Rise” from “127 Hours” Music by A.R. Rahman Lyric by Dido and Rollo Armstrong
* “We Belong Together” from “Toy Story 3" Music and Lyric by Randy Newman
Short Film (Animated)
* “Day & Night” Teddy Newton
* “The Gruffalo” Jakob Schuh and Max Lang
* “Let's Pollute” Geefwee Boedoe
* “The Lost Thing” Shaun Tan and Andrew Ruhemann
* “Madagascar, carnet de voyage (Madagascar, a Journey Diary)” Bastien Dubois
Short Film (Live Action)
* “The Confession” Tanel Toom
* “The Crush” Michael Creagh
* “God of Love” Luke Matheny
* “Na Wewe” Ivan Goldschmidt
* “Wish 143” Ian Barnes and Samantha Waite
Sound Editing
* “Inception” Richard King
* “Toy Story 3” Tom Myers and Michael Silvers
* “Tron: Legacy” Gwendolyn Yates Whittle and Addison Teague
* “True Grit” Skip Lievsay and Craig Berkey
* “Unstoppable” Mark P. Stoeckinger
Sound Mixing
* “Inception” Lora Hirschberg, Gary A. Rizzo and Ed Novick
* “The King's Speech” Paul Hamblin, Martin Jensen and John Midgley
* “Salt” Jeffrey J. Haboush, Greg P. Russell, Scott Millan and William Sarokin
* “The Social Network” Ren Klyce, David Parker, Michael Semanick and Mark Weingarten
* “True Grit” Skip Lievsay, Craig Berkey, Greg Orloff and Peter F. Kurland
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
So, all in all, a particularly tough year for the voters as there were a slew of really good movies. I'll leave it to time to see which will be considered great.
Monday, March 08, 2010
And that's a wrap...
I am glad that The Hurt Locker won and that the Academy didn't hold any of "the controversies" against them. Still... it was too long and drawn out. While I don't think Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin did a bad job, and it's possible that no one can be a good host these days, I wanna see Neil Patrick Harris host this thing. Next year, please get folks who can read a teleprompter. And, while nice, I guess, I don't know that we need the dancing. Also, while I'm glad Sandy won, I want to see Meryl stand up there and accept an award again. So, hopefully she's continuing to choose wisely.
Sunday, March 07, 2010
And the winner is...
BEST PICTURE
Avatar - James Cameron and Jon Landau, producers
The Blind Side - Gil Netter, Andrew A. Kosove and Broderick Johnson, producers
District 9 - Peter Jackson and Carolynne Cunningham, producers
An Education - Finola Dwyer and Amanda Posey, producers
The Hurt Locker - Kathryn Bigelow, Mark Boal, Nicolas Chartier and Greg Shapiro, producers
Inglourious Basterds - Lawrence Bender, producer
Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire - Lee Daniels, Sarah Siegel-Magness and Gary Magness, producers
A Serious Man - Joel Coen and Ethan Coen, producers
Up - Jonas Rivera, producer
Up in the Air - Daniel Dubiecki, Ivan Reitman and Jason Reitman, producers
I said at the outset that I didn't know if any film would match the movies of 1943 (the last time that the Academy nominated 10 films). I think The Hurt Locker might have the best shot at that in terms of being remembered.
Avatar - James Cameron and Jon Landau, producers
The Blind Side - Gil Netter, Andrew A. Kosove and Broderick Johnson, producers
District 9 - Peter Jackson and Carolynne Cunningham, producers
An Education - Finola Dwyer and Amanda Posey, producers
The Hurt Locker - Kathryn Bigelow, Mark Boal, Nicolas Chartier and Greg Shapiro, producers
Inglourious Basterds - Lawrence Bender, producer
Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire - Lee Daniels, Sarah Siegel-Magness and Gary Magness, producers
A Serious Man - Joel Coen and Ethan Coen, producers
Up - Jonas Rivera, producer
Up in the Air - Daniel Dubiecki, Ivan Reitman and Jason Reitman, producers
I said at the outset that I didn't know if any film would match the movies of 1943 (the last time that the Academy nominated 10 films). I think The Hurt Locker might have the best shot at that in terms of being remembered.
And the winner is...
DIRECTING
Avatar - James Cameron
The Hurt Locker - Kathryn Bigelow
Inglourious Basterds - Quentin Tarantino
Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire - Lee Daniels
Up in the Air - Jason Reitman
I am really happy for this win. I missed it. Did James Cameron stand and applaud? I like her speech also. It's kind of listy, but I like that she's kind of trying to work in what the various folks do. And, as Sean said, did they have to play Hear Me Roar as the walk off?
Avatar - James Cameron
The Hurt Locker - Kathryn Bigelow
Inglourious Basterds - Quentin Tarantino
Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire - Lee Daniels
Up in the Air - Jason Reitman
I am really happy for this win. I missed it. Did James Cameron stand and applaud? I like her speech also. It's kind of listy, but I like that she's kind of trying to work in what the various folks do. And, as Sean said, did they have to play Hear Me Roar as the walk off?
And the winner is...
ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE
Sandra Bullock in The Blind Side
Helen Mirren in The Last Station
Carey Mulligan in An Education
Gabourey Sidibe in Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire
Meryl Streep in Julie & Julia
So tired... so very tired... These are all very nice stories, but we're already 15 minutes late and 2 1/2 main categories to go. I did like Stanley Tucci's speech for Meryl. And, I liked Oprah's speech about Gabourey.
Awww... she's crying! Don't cry, Sandy. I'm glad she won. I wouldn't have minded if Meryl had won, but I'm glad for Sandy. And, I liked her speech. A lot. Even if she gets mocked tomorrow for crying.
Sandra Bullock in The Blind Side
Helen Mirren in The Last Station
Carey Mulligan in An Education
Gabourey Sidibe in Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire
Meryl Streep in Julie & Julia
So tired... so very tired... These are all very nice stories, but we're already 15 minutes late and 2 1/2 main categories to go. I did like Stanley Tucci's speech for Meryl. And, I liked Oprah's speech about Gabourey.
Awww... she's crying! Don't cry, Sandy. I'm glad she won. I wouldn't have minded if Meryl had won, but I'm glad for Sandy. And, I liked her speech. A lot. Even if she gets mocked tomorrow for crying.
And the winner is...
ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE
Jeff Bridges in Crazy Heart
George Clooney in Up in the Air
Colin Firth in A Single Man
Morgan Freeman in Invictus
Jeremy Renner in The Hurt Locker
Why is Michelle Pfeiffer talking so slowly? Why are they spending time talking about the actors (and I assume the actresses, as well)? Also, wouldn't it be great if one of these co-stars just busted out with a story about how evil it was to work with the Best Actor/Actress nominee?
Oh, yay... Haven't seen this yet, but I've always liked Jeff Bridges. And, I like his speech as a salute to his folks. However, why did he get to talk forever while other get played out like after 30 seconds?
Jeff Bridges in Crazy Heart
George Clooney in Up in the Air
Colin Firth in A Single Man
Morgan Freeman in Invictus
Jeremy Renner in The Hurt Locker
Why is Michelle Pfeiffer talking so slowly? Why are they spending time talking about the actors (and I assume the actresses, as well)? Also, wouldn't it be great if one of these co-stars just busted out with a story about how evil it was to work with the Best Actor/Actress nominee?
Oh, yay... Haven't seen this yet, but I've always liked Jeff Bridges. And, I like his speech as a salute to his folks. However, why did he get to talk forever while other get played out like after 30 seconds?
Avatar clips...
Apparently, Avatar made a lot of money. And was nominated for a lot of categories. And, it was visually stimulating, but I still say it's not the best picture of the year. Let's see if the academy agrees with me.
And the winner is...
FOREIGN-LANGUAGE FILM
Ajami - Israel
The Milk of Sorrow (La Teta Asustada) - Peru
A Prophet (Un Prophète) - France
The Secret in Their Eyes (El Secreto de Sus Ojos) - Argentina
The White Ribbon (Das Weisse Band) - Germany
Didn't see that one coming either. I probably would have assume The White Ribbon would get it because it was nominated for other awards or Ajami because Israel always seems to do well in this category.
And, aww... no one laughed at the Argentinian director's joke. And, he lost the teleprompter. That was cute and a li'l sad.
Ajami - Israel
The Milk of Sorrow (La Teta Asustada) - Peru
A Prophet (Un Prophète) - France
The Secret in Their Eyes (El Secreto de Sus Ojos) - Argentina
The White Ribbon (Das Weisse Band) - Germany
Didn't see that one coming either. I probably would have assume The White Ribbon would get it because it was nominated for other awards or Ajami because Israel always seems to do well in this category.
And, aww... no one laughed at the Argentinian director's joke. And, he lost the teleprompter. That was cute and a li'l sad.
The Hurt Locker clips
With Keanu Reeves introducing it. Huh... Interesting choice. I really enjoyed this movie. I hope it wins. And, the thing is, I didn't expect to like it. I rarely like movies because I find they are generally too jingoistic or too anti-soldier. Not that this was a happy medium, but what it tried to do (and mostly succeeded in my mind) was tell the story of this particular group of soldiers who were doing a job they were told to do. And they were doing it to the best of their ability.
FILM EDITING
Avatar - Stephen Rivkin, John Refoua and James Cameron
District 9 - Julian Clarke
The Hurt Locker - Bob Murawski and Chris Innis
Inglourious Basterds - Sally Menke
Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire - Joe Klotz
Tyler Perry is too rich to be self-deprecating. He's also clearly not a stand-up comedian.
Wow... Didn't see that one at all. The Hurt Locker is doing quite well for itself. And I liked that dig at the end about making a movie without compromise.
Avatar - Stephen Rivkin, John Refoua and James Cameron
District 9 - Julian Clarke
The Hurt Locker - Bob Murawski and Chris Innis
Inglourious Basterds - Sally Menke
Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire - Joe Klotz
Tyler Perry is too rich to be self-deprecating. He's also clearly not a stand-up comedian.
Wow... Didn't see that one at all. The Hurt Locker is doing quite well for itself. And I liked that dig at the end about making a movie without compromise.
And the winner is...
DOCUMENTARY (FEATURE)
Burma VJ - Anders Østergaard and Lise Lense-Møller
The Cove - Louie Psihoyos and Fisher Stevens
Food, Inc. - Robert Kenner and Elise Pearlstein
The Most Dangerous Man in America: Daniel Ellsberg and the Pentagon Papers - Judith Ehrlich and Rick Goldsmith
Which Way Home - Rebecca Cammisa
I kind of really want to see all of these films and am kicking myself I didn't take advantage of the AMC Showcase Best Documentary airings. Next year.
Burma VJ - Anders Østergaard and Lise Lense-Møller
The Cove - Louie Psihoyos and Fisher Stevens
Food, Inc. - Robert Kenner and Elise Pearlstein
The Most Dangerous Man in America: Daniel Ellsberg and the Pentagon Papers - Judith Ehrlich and Rick Goldsmith
Which Way Home - Rebecca Cammisa
I kind of really want to see all of these films and am kicking myself I didn't take advantage of the AMC Showcase Best Documentary airings. Next year.
Two and a half hours in...
And I'm tired. Which generally means the show is dragging. That's not good. Though, it started off with little energy so that could explain it. However, in the words of VampWillow, "Bored Now."
Up in the Air clips...
This movie, like A Simple Man, is a cute enough movie, though not (IMO) worthy of a Best Picture movie. I did enjoy (much of) the writing and the acting was great. But, it didn't earn its ending.
And the winner is...
VISUAL EFFECTS
Avatar - Joe Letteri, Stephen Rosenbaum, Richard Baneham and Andrew R. Jones
District 9 - Dan Kaufman, Peter Muyzers, Robert Habros and Matt Aitken
Star Trek - Roger Guyett, Russell Earl, Paul Kavanagh and Burt Dalton
Okay, now who didn't see that one coming? And, this win Avatar totally deserves.
Avatar - Joe Letteri, Stephen Rosenbaum, Richard Baneham and Andrew R. Jones
District 9 - Dan Kaufman, Peter Muyzers, Robert Habros and Matt Aitken
Star Trek - Roger Guyett, Russell Earl, Paul Kavanagh and Burt Dalton
Okay, now who didn't see that one coming? And, this win Avatar totally deserves.
And the winner is...
MUSIC (ORIGINAL SCORE)
Avatar - James Horner
Fantastic Mr. Fox - Alexandre Desplat
The Hurt Locker - Marco Beltrami and Buck Sanders
Sherlock Holmes - Hans Zimmer
Up - Michael Giacchino
A montage of the nominees work danced by a Legion of Extraordinary dancers. Huh... I feel like they tried this back in the 1990s and it didn't work then. Does it work now?
Not sure...
My ear doesn't automatically tune to the music, I'm much more story driven, however, I do recall liking this score. And, I kind of loved Michael's speech. Being creative is not a waste of time. It's not. It's what makes life worth living.
Now I'm going with nope. Though the dancers are uniformly excellent. I just don't get it.
Avatar - James Horner
Fantastic Mr. Fox - Alexandre Desplat
The Hurt Locker - Marco Beltrami and Buck Sanders
Sherlock Holmes - Hans Zimmer
Up - Michael Giacchino
A montage of the nominees work danced by a Legion of Extraordinary dancers. Huh... I feel like they tried this back in the 1990s and it didn't work then. Does it work now?
Not sure...
My ear doesn't automatically tune to the music, I'm much more story driven, however, I do recall liking this score. And, I kind of loved Michael's speech. Being creative is not a waste of time. It's not. It's what makes life worth living.
Now I'm going with nope. Though the dancers are uniformly excellent. I just don't get it.
Death montage
So, the salute to John Hughes wasn't part of or instead of the Death montage. Huh... And now we get James Taylor singing a song over the montage. And, once again, no names to tell who some of these older folks are. Oh, wait, here are the names. Okay, and they are readable this year, which is a good thing.
I feel like this isn't in chronological order this year. Huh... Why do I get the feeling that they keep trying to improve this each year and never getting it quite right. I also feel like they should do the middle school thing of asking people to hold their applause to the end.
I feel like this isn't in chronological order this year. Huh... Why do I get the feeling that they keep trying to improve this each year and never getting it quite right. I also feel like they should do the middle school thing of asking people to hold their applause to the end.
And the winner is...
CINEMATOGRAPHY
Avatar - Mauro Fiore
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince - Bruno Delbonnel
The Hurt Locker - Barry Ackroyd
Inglourious Basterds - Robert Richardson
The White Ribbon - Christian Berger
First off, way to go Sandra Bullock for dropping some Yiddish knowledge and using mishegas correctly. And good for Mauro Fiore for winning the actual award.
Avatar - Mauro Fiore
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince - Bruno Delbonnel
The Hurt Locker - Barry Ackroyd
Inglourious Basterds - Robert Richardson
The White Ribbon - Christian Berger
First off, way to go Sandra Bullock for dropping some Yiddish knowledge and using mishegas correctly. And good for Mauro Fiore for winning the actual award.
Inglourious Basterds clips
This was another good movie that probably won't win the Best Picture award. It was violent for the sake of being violent, which I don't have a problem with, but parts of it just didn't make sense, which I also didn't have a problem with, but which is why it wasn't the best of the 10 nominees.
Sci/Tech Awards...
And, they weren't even allowed on stage? Wow. It was a picture from the awards on Feb. 20. Just wow.
And the winner is...
SOUND MIXING
Avatar - Christopher Boyes, Gary Summers, Andy Nelson and Tony Johnson
The Hurt Locker - Paul N.J. Ottosson and Ray Beckett
Inglourious Basterds - Michael Minkler, Tony Lamberti and Mark Ulano
Star Trek - Anna Behlmer, Andy Nelson and Peter J. Devlin
Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen - Greg P. Russell, Gary Summers and Geoffrey Patterson
Why do all the young presenters sound so miserable? Also, Paul N.J. Ottosson wins two in a row? Not bad.
Avatar - Christopher Boyes, Gary Summers, Andy Nelson and Tony Johnson
The Hurt Locker - Paul N.J. Ottosson and Ray Beckett
Inglourious Basterds - Michael Minkler, Tony Lamberti and Mark Ulano
Star Trek - Anna Behlmer, Andy Nelson and Peter J. Devlin
Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen - Greg P. Russell, Gary Summers and Geoffrey Patterson
Why do all the young presenters sound so miserable? Also, Paul N.J. Ottosson wins two in a row? Not bad.
And the winner is...
SOUND EDITING
Avatar - Christopher Boyes and Gwendolyn Yates Whittle
The Hurt Locker - Paul N.J. Ottosson
Inglourious Basterds - Wylie Stateman
Star Trek - Mark Stoeckinger and Alan Rankin
Up - Michael Silvers and Tom Myers
Oooh... I think I called this one. I did call this one!
Avatar - Christopher Boyes and Gwendolyn Yates Whittle
The Hurt Locker - Paul N.J. Ottosson
Inglourious Basterds - Wylie Stateman
Star Trek - Mark Stoeckinger and Alan Rankin
Up - Michael Silvers and Tom Myers
Oooh... I think I called this one. I did call this one!
Salute to Horror
Why are Kristen and Taylor speaking in a monotone? Is this how they are when they act?
And, while I'm not a fan of the horror genre, I do understand that it has its place in movie history. That said, so do the winners of the Governor's Awards. So, we're getting a horror retrospective (intro'd by a pointless bit by Alec and Steve) instead of devoting the five minutes to entertainment legends? I call foul!
And, while I'm not a fan of the horror genre, I do understand that it has its place in movie history. That said, so do the winners of the Governor's Awards. So, we're getting a horror retrospective (intro'd by a pointless bit by Alec and Steve) instead of devoting the five minutes to entertainment legends? I call foul!
Precious clips
This movie was brutal. While I still think Avatar will win and want The Hurt Locker to win, I wouldn't be upset if Precious won. It was not enjoyable to view this movie, but I'm glad I did. The acting was great. The writing was fabulous. It felt (unfortunately) real.
And the winner is...
COSTUME DESIGN
Bright Star - Janet Patterson
Coco before Chanel - Catherine Leterrier
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus - Monique Prudhomme
Nine - Colleen Atwood
The Young Victoria - Sandy Powell
Did not see any of these movies, but you never bet against the Victorians when it comes to costume. Wow, she started a bit harsh (having won 2 already), but she pulled it out by dedicating it to the costume designers who work in modern looking films. Though she's still keeping it.
Bright Star - Janet Patterson
Coco before Chanel - Catherine Leterrier
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus - Monique Prudhomme
Nine - Colleen Atwood
The Young Victoria - Sandy Powell
Did not see any of these movies, but you never bet against the Victorians when it comes to costume. Wow, she started a bit harsh (having won 2 already), but she pulled it out by dedicating it to the costume designers who work in modern looking films. Though she's still keeping it.
And the winner is...
ART DIRECTION
Avatar - art direction Rick Carter and Robert Stromberg; set decoration Kim Sinclair
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus - art direction Dave Warren and Anastasia Masaro; set decoration Caroline Smith
Nine - art direction John Myhre; set decoration Gordon Sim
Sherlock Holmes - art direction Sarah Greenwood; set decoration Katie Spencer
The Young Victoria - art direction Patrice Vermette; set decoration Maggie Gray
And the first of the design/tech awards goes to Avatar. I'm not surprised. Whoah... I see a tv movie made of Robert Stromberg's life.
Avatar - art direction Rick Carter and Robert Stromberg; set decoration Kim Sinclair
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus - art direction Dave Warren and Anastasia Masaro; set decoration Caroline Smith
Nine - art direction John Myhre; set decoration Gordon Sim
Sherlock Holmes - art direction Sarah Greenwood; set decoration Katie Spencer
The Young Victoria - art direction Patrice Vermette; set decoration Maggie Gray
And the first of the design/tech awards goes to Avatar. I'm not surprised. Whoah... I see a tv movie made of Robert Stromberg's life.
An Education
While I liked this film, I would be surprised if it won. It was an enjoyable, but soft film (even when the protagonist was at her nadir). And the Best Picture winners generally stand for something more.
And the winner is...
ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
Penélope Cruz in Nine
Vera Farmiga in Up in the Air
Maggie Gyllenhaal in Crazy Heart
Anna Kendrick in Up in the Air
Mo’Nique in Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire
Good for Mo'Nique. She had a hell of a performance.
Shout out to Hattie McDaniel. nice. Not sure that I understand the point about performance over politics. Clearly, I'm missing something.
Penélope Cruz in Nine
Vera Farmiga in Up in the Air
Maggie Gyllenhaal in Crazy Heart
Anna Kendrick in Up in the Air
Mo’Nique in Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire
Good for Mo'Nique. She had a hell of a performance.
Shout out to Hattie McDaniel. nice. Not sure that I understand the point about performance over politics. Clearly, I'm missing something.
Booo... Hisss...
Horrified that the Academy Awards shunted the Governor's Awards to a non-televised event.
2009 Governors Awards
On November 14, four extraordinary individuals were honored at the Academy’s inaugural Governors Awards event. Producer-executive John Calley received the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award, and Honorary Awards went to actress Lauren Bacall, producer-director Roger Corman and cinematographer Gordon Willis.
I hope that the Thalberg Award winner, John Calley, gets his own televised piece.
2009 Governors Awards
On November 14, four extraordinary individuals were honored at the Academy’s inaugural Governors Awards event. Producer-executive John Calley received the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award, and Honorary Awards went to actress Lauren Bacall, producer-director Roger Corman and cinematographer Gordon Willis.
I hope that the Thalberg Award winner, John Calley, gets his own televised piece.
And the winner is...
WRITING (ADAPTED SCREENPLAY)
District 9 - written by Neill Blomkamp and Terri Tatchell
An Education - screenplay by Nick Hornby
In the Loop - screenplay by Jesse Armstrong, Simon Blackwell, Armando Iannucci, Tony Roche
Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire - screenplay by Geoffrey Fletcher
Up in the Air - screenplay by Jason Reitman and Sheldon Turner
Oooh, I think I called that one. Also, is he the first African American to win a writing Oscar?
District 9 - written by Neill Blomkamp and Terri Tatchell
An Education - screenplay by Nick Hornby
In the Loop - screenplay by Jesse Armstrong, Simon Blackwell, Armando Iannucci, Tony Roche
Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire - screenplay by Geoffrey Fletcher
Up in the Air - screenplay by Jason Reitman and Sheldon Turner
Oooh, I think I called that one. Also, is he the first African American to win a writing Oscar?
A Serious Man
I'm still not sure I get this movie. Though, I think it's because I didn't realize it was a Coen Brothers movie when I saw it. And, no I don't know how that happened. It was quite an enjoyable and funny film though. Though, if I weren't in a theater-ful of New York Jews (or at least over 50 percent Jewish), I don't know that it would have garnered half the laughs it did in Murray Hill. While I really liked it (heck, it had Wolowitz from Big Bang Theory), I don't think it's Best Picture material.
And the winner is...
MAKEUP
Il Divo - Aldo Signoretti and Vittorio Sodano
Star Trek - Barney Burman, Mindy Hall and Joel Harlow
The Young Victoria - Jon Henry Gordon and Jenny Shircore
Okay, Ben Stiller, you realize that every second you're babbling, some winner doesn't get to thank his agent, right?
Also, I was hoping this would win cause... aliens!
Il Divo - Aldo Signoretti and Vittorio Sodano
Star Trek - Barney Burman, Mindy Hall and Joel Harlow
The Young Victoria - Jon Henry Gordon and Jenny Shircore
Okay, Ben Stiller, you realize that every second you're babbling, some winner doesn't get to thank his agent, right?
Also, I was hoping this would win cause... aliens!
And the Winner is...
SHORT FILM (LIVE ACTION)
The Door - Juanita Wilson and James Flynn
Instead of Abracadabra - Patrik Eklund and Mathias Fjellström
Kavi - Gregg Helvey
Miracle Fish - Luke Doolan and Drew Bailey
The New Tenants - Joachim Back and Tivi Magnusson
Okay, I know nothing about this one either. And the old guy didn't get to speak? People, you need to time out your thank yous to 15 seconds, that way if there are more than one of you, everyone gets a chance to speak.
The Door - Juanita Wilson and James Flynn
Instead of Abracadabra - Patrik Eklund and Mathias Fjellström
Kavi - Gregg Helvey
Miracle Fish - Luke Doolan and Drew Bailey
The New Tenants - Joachim Back and Tivi Magnusson
Okay, I know nothing about this one either. And the old guy didn't get to speak? People, you need to time out your thank yous to 15 seconds, that way if there are more than one of you, everyone gets a chance to speak.
And the Winner is...
DOCUMENTARY (SHORT SUBJECT)
China’s Unnatural Disaster: The Tears of Sichuan Province - Jon Alpert and Matthew O’Neill
The Last Campaign of Governor Booth Gardner - Daniel Junge and Henry Ansbacher
The Last Truck: Closing of a GM Plant - Steven Bognar and Julia Reichert
Music by Prudence - Roger Ross Williams and Elinor Burkett
Rabbit à la Berlin - Bartek Konopka and Anna Wydra
I'll admit it, I know nothing about this category. Though all of the nominees looked good. And, I wish they named the two folks talking, cause that was hard core the way the woman just interrupted the dude. And the music not only plays them off, but the camera pulls back? Wow, that is cold. I haven't been paying attention, but is that the way all of the winners have been played off?
China’s Unnatural Disaster: The Tears of Sichuan Province - Jon Alpert and Matthew O’Neill
The Last Campaign of Governor Booth Gardner - Daniel Junge and Henry Ansbacher
The Last Truck: Closing of a GM Plant - Steven Bognar and Julia Reichert
Music by Prudence - Roger Ross Williams and Elinor Burkett
Rabbit à la Berlin - Bartek Konopka and Anna Wydra
I'll admit it, I know nothing about this category. Though all of the nominees looked good. And, I wish they named the two folks talking, cause that was hard core the way the woman just interrupted the dude. And the music not only plays them off, but the camera pulls back? Wow, that is cold. I haven't been paying attention, but is that the way all of the winners have been played off?
And the winner is...
SHORT FILM (ANIMATED)
French Roast - Fabrice O. Joubert
Granny O’Grimm’s Sleeping Beauty - Nicky Phelan and Darragh O’Connell
The Lady and the Reaper (La Dama y la Muerte) - Javier Recio Gracia
Logorama - Nicolas Schmerkin
A Matter of Loaf and Death - Nick Park
Huh... I would have assumed Nick Park would win, because doesn't he always win those? Though, Schmerkin's (great name, btw) picture looked pretty.
French Roast - Fabrice O. Joubert
Granny O’Grimm’s Sleeping Beauty - Nicky Phelan and Darragh O’Connell
The Lady and the Reaper (La Dama y la Muerte) - Javier Recio Gracia
Logorama - Nicolas Schmerkin
A Matter of Loaf and Death - Nick Park
Huh... I would have assumed Nick Park would win, because doesn't he always win those? Though, Schmerkin's (great name, btw) picture looked pretty.
Blind Side clip
I admit it, I am a sucker for these movies, even though I wish I weren't. I just like when wealthy folks do something to change the course of a life. At the same time, I get a bit uncomfortable when it's a white person changing the course of an African American. But, this had the benefit of being based on a true story. and, it's such a great story, too. I would not be upset if this movie wins. Surprised, but not upset.
District 9 clips
Okay, this and the Blind Side clip will be out of order...
Now, this was the one movie nominated for Best Picture that I didn't end up seeing. But, based on the clips I saw, I do regret that and will be rectifying that as soon as possible. Is the movie out on DVD yet? Must add it to my Netflix queue.
Now, this was the one movie nominated for Best Picture that I didn't end up seeing. But, based on the clips I saw, I do regret that and will be rectifying that as soon as possible. Is the movie out on DVD yet? Must add it to my Netflix queue.
Up clips...
Man, this was a good movie. I just wish I could have seen it in 3-D. It was winsome and heartwarming and suspenseful and sad and beautiful.
John Hughes retrospective?
With Molly Ringwald and Matthew Broderick. Okay. Is this in addition to the death montage? Or, instead of? Because, I love John Hughes, and I think his work is pretty much genius. He made movies for an entire generation. But is this demeaning the work of other folks who passed away? But, man, he made some great movies. Some Kind of Wonderful, Ferris Beuller, 16 Candles, Breakfast Club, Pretty in Pink, etc., etc., etc.
And now, the Breakfast Club, Ducky and Macauley Culkin giving a shout out to John Hughes' family. Wow, Matthew Broderick looked younger when he was quoting Ferris.
And now, the Breakfast Club, Ducky and Macauley Culkin giving a shout out to John Hughes' family. Wow, Matthew Broderick looked younger when he was quoting Ferris.
And the winner is...
WRITING (ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY)
The Hurt Locker - written by Mark Boal
Inglourious Basterds - written by Quentin Tarantino
The Messenger - written by Alessandro Camon and Oren Moverman
A Serious Man - written by Joel Coen and Ethan Coen
Up - screenplay by Bob Peterson, Pete Docter, story by Pete Docter, Bob Peterson, Tom McCarthy
I LOVED the interplay between Tina Fey and Robert Downey, Jr. They were funny and looked like they may have even rehearsed. Or, possibly read what they would be doing beforehand.
Also, I liked that Up pretty much did what tina Fey said all acting would be. Something that the writers (or directors) could fix on a laptop alone.
Mark Boal won for The Hurt Locker. I did not expect that, but I am happy he won. It was a grand movie. And Kathryn Bigelow gets a shout-out, as do the troops in both Iraq and Afghanistan (and Mark's dad).
The Hurt Locker - written by Mark Boal
Inglourious Basterds - written by Quentin Tarantino
The Messenger - written by Alessandro Camon and Oren Moverman
A Serious Man - written by Joel Coen and Ethan Coen
Up - screenplay by Bob Peterson, Pete Docter, story by Pete Docter, Bob Peterson, Tom McCarthy
I LOVED the interplay between Tina Fey and Robert Downey, Jr. They were funny and looked like they may have even rehearsed. Or, possibly read what they would be doing beforehand.
Also, I liked that Up pretty much did what tina Fey said all acting would be. Something that the writers (or directors) could fix on a laptop alone.
Mark Boal won for The Hurt Locker. I did not expect that, but I am happy he won. It was a grand movie. And Kathryn Bigelow gets a shout-out, as do the troops in both Iraq and Afghanistan (and Mark's dad).
And the winner is...
Okay, from afar, both Amanda Seyfried and Miley Cyrus looked like they were wearing wedding dresses.
MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG)
Almost There from The Princess and the Frog - music and lyrics by Randy Newman
Down in New Orleans from The Princess and the Frog - music and lyrics by Randy Newman
Loin de Paname from Paris 36 - music by Reinhardt Wagner, lyrics by Frank Thomas
Take It All from Nine - music and lyrics by Maury Yeston
The Weary Kind (Theme from Crazy Heart) from Crazy Heart - music and lyrics by Ryan Bingham and T Bone Burnett
I really do need to see this movie.
Did they thank the guy whose estate they were suing? or, the guy whose estate was suing T-Bone?
MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG)
Almost There from The Princess and the Frog - music and lyrics by Randy Newman
Down in New Orleans from The Princess and the Frog - music and lyrics by Randy Newman
Loin de Paname from Paris 36 - music by Reinhardt Wagner, lyrics by Frank Thomas
Take It All from Nine - music and lyrics by Maury Yeston
The Weary Kind (Theme from Crazy Heart) from Crazy Heart - music and lyrics by Ryan Bingham and T Bone Burnett
I really do need to see this movie.
Did they thank the guy whose estate they were suing? or, the guy whose estate was suing T-Bone?
Best Animated Feature Film...
ANIMATED FEATURE FILM
Coraline - Henry Selick
Fantastic Mr. Fox - Wes Anderson
The Princess and the Frog - John Musker and Ron Clements
The Secret of Kells - Tomm Moore
Up - Pete Docter
And, I'm 2 for 2. Aww, I'm glad. This was one of the films I wanted to be right about. What a great movie. From the beginning of the film to the end (the credits matched the picture on the screen - it took me a few credits to get it, but I finally did).
Coraline - Henry Selick
Fantastic Mr. Fox - Wes Anderson
The Princess and the Frog - John Musker and Ron Clements
The Secret of Kells - Tomm Moore
Up - Pete Docter
And, I'm 2 for 2. Aww, I'm glad. This was one of the films I wanted to be right about. What a great movie. From the beginning of the film to the end (the credits matched the picture on the screen - it took me a few credits to get it, but I finally did).
Uhhh okay...
Cameron couldn't remember that she was talking to Steve Carrell and not Jude Law? Really?
Though I do like the bit they are introducing. The animated characters talking about how glad they were to be nominated. Very cute and not a little bit of work.
Squirrel!
Though I do like the bit they are introducing. The animated characters talking about how glad they were to be nominated. Very cute and not a little bit of work.
Squirrel!
Who blinked?
I'm guessing Cablevision blinked. With the number of folks just on facebook who threatened to go call Fios tomorrow. Then again, it could be ABC who blinked, realizing that without the Cablevision eyes for the Oscars, the ratings would go down and they would owe the advertisers. Thoughts?
ABC and Cablevision reached a deal...
Does this mean the Oscars will be joined in progress in cablevision homes?
Best Supporting Actor...
And the winner is:
Best Supporting Actor
Matt Damon
'Invictus'
Woody Harrelson
'The Messenger'
Christopher Plummer
'The Last Station'
Stanley Tucci
'The Lovely Bones'
Christoph Waltz
'Inglourious Basterds'
These clips are kind of long. I wonder how much this telecast is going to run over?
Ha! I'm 1 for 1.
Also, I thought they were going to stop doing the "And the Winner is..." in lieu of And the Oscar goes to...
And Christoph is speaking in metaphors.
Best Supporting Actor
Matt Damon
'Invictus'
Woody Harrelson
'The Messenger'
Christopher Plummer
'The Last Station'
Stanley Tucci
'The Lovely Bones'
Christoph Waltz
'Inglourious Basterds'
These clips are kind of long. I wonder how much this telecast is going to run over?
Ha! I'm 1 for 1.
Also, I thought they were going to stop doing the "And the Winner is..." in lieu of And the Oscar goes to...
And Christoph is speaking in metaphors.
Alec and Steve... together again...
Any comments on Alec's most recent with the paparazzi?
Guess not.
And, poor Meryl. Most losses. She is the Lucci of Oscars. Except for the fact that she actually won a few.
Okay, they're actually kind of funny. Look, there's that Damn Helen Mirren. No Steve, that's the Dame Helen Mirren.
Steve Martin pulling out The Jerk. What a Call-back.
Okay, I'm kind of digging these one-liners. It's somewhat different for the Oscars.
Though, even if people are drawn in by the Oscars, how much are the ratings going to suffer due to the ABC-Cablevision fiasco?
George Clooney does not look happy. But, it might be a bit.
Okay, it's a bit. Still, was he supposed to be glowering whenever the camera went to him?
Taylor did not look like he expected to be on camera.
Guess not.
And, poor Meryl. Most losses. She is the Lucci of Oscars. Except for the fact that she actually won a few.
Okay, they're actually kind of funny. Look, there's that Damn Helen Mirren. No Steve, that's the Dame Helen Mirren.
Steve Martin pulling out The Jerk. What a Call-back.
Okay, I'm kind of digging these one-liners. It's somewhat different for the Oscars.
Though, even if people are drawn in by the Oscars, how much are the ratings going to suffer due to the ABC-Cablevision fiasco?
George Clooney does not look happy. But, it might be a bit.
Okay, it's a bit. Still, was he supposed to be glowering whenever the camera went to him?
Taylor did not look like he expected to be on camera.
Neil Patrick Harris can do it all...
Even introduce the Oscar hosts.
In a Vegas style musical number that brings to mind the songs from Crosby-Hope films.
I like it. But, then it's NPH. That's a given.
In a Vegas style musical number that brings to mind the songs from Crosby-Hope films.
I like it. But, then it's NPH. That's a given.
And we're off...
Apparently looking at the Best Actor/Actress nominees.
Aww... Carey Mulligan looks so nervous. And Gabourey is just strutting. I like it.
Not sure of the point of this exercise is though...
And now they're off.
Aww... Carey Mulligan looks so nervous. And Gabourey is just strutting. I like it.
Not sure of the point of this exercise is though...
And now they're off.
10 Best Picture Nominees
So, in the Red Carpet Show they were discussing the last time the Academy nominated 10 movies for Best Picture. It was in 1943. These were the films...
WINNER: Casablanca (Warner Bros.)
For Whom the Bell Tolls (Paramount)
Heaven Can Wait (Twentieth Century-Fox)
The Human Comedy (MGM)
In Which We Serve (Two Cities; United Artists)
Madame Curie (MGM)
The More the Merrier (Columbia)
The Ox-Bow Incident (Twentieth Century-Fox)
The Song of Bernadette (Twentieth Century-Fox)
Watch on the Rhine (Warner Bros.)
A number of these are still considered classics today. I'm wondering which of the 10 films nominated for tonight will still be watched/discussed in 60+ years.
WINNER: Casablanca (Warner Bros.)
For Whom the Bell Tolls (Paramount)
Heaven Can Wait (Twentieth Century-Fox)
The Human Comedy (MGM)
In Which We Serve (Two Cities; United Artists)
Madame Curie (MGM)
The More the Merrier (Columbia)
The Ox-Bow Incident (Twentieth Century-Fox)
The Song of Bernadette (Twentieth Century-Fox)
Watch on the Rhine (Warner Bros.)
A number of these are still considered classics today. I'm wondering which of the 10 films nominated for tonight will still be watched/discussed in 60+ years.
Bye-bye Barbara...
This was Barbara Walter's last time hosting her Barbara Walter's Academy Awards special. After 29 years. I wonder whose decision that was... ABC's or hers.
Liveblogging the Oscars
In case there was some doubt, I will be live-blogging the Oscars tonight. You can thank too much Sangria during brunch for that one.
It's a Wonderful Time for Oscars...
It's nearly time for the 82nd Academy Awards presentation. Yay! So exciting. Actually, it's not that exciting this year. I'm not sure why. I think because I'm afraid that it's a forgone conclusion that Avatar will win the Best Picture trophy, and I really hope it doesn't. Now, don't get me wrong. It's a very good movie with great special effects and very well directed. That is why they have the Best Director and Best Special Effects categories. Avatar is visually stimulating, but as far as the story goes, it is severely lacking. I hope The Hurt Locker wins, but I wouldn't be upset if Precious wins.
Other choices
ACTOR LEADING
Jeff Bridges in “Crazy Heart”
George Clooney in “Up in the Air”
Colin Firth in “A Single Man”
Morgan Freeman in “Invictus”
Jeremy Renner in “The Hurt Locker”
ACTOR SUPPORTING
Matt Damon in “Invictus”
Woody Harrelson in “The Messenger”
Christopher Plummer in “The Last Station”
Stanley Tucci in “The Lovely Bones”
Christoph Waltz in “Inglourious Basterds”
LEADING ACTRESS
Sandra Bullock in “The Blind Side”
Helen Mirren in “The Last Station”
Carey Mulligan in “An Education”
Gabourey Sidibe in “Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire”
Meryl Streep in “Julie & Julia”
SUPPORTING ACTRESS
Penélope Cruz in “Nine”
Vera Farmiga in “Up in the Air”
Maggie Gyllenhaal in “Crazy Heart”
Anna Kendrick in “Up in the Air”
Mo’Nique in “Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire”
FEATURE ANIMATED
Coraline
Fantastic Mr. Fox
The Princess and the Frog
The Secret of Kells
Up
ART DIRECTION
Avatar
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus
Nine
Sherlock Holmes
The Young Victoria
CINEMATOGRAPHY
Avatar
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
The Hurt Locker
Inglourious Basterds
The White Ribbon
COSTUME DESIGN
Bright Star
Coco before Chanel
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnasus
Nine
The Young Victoria
DIRECTING
Avatar
The Hurt Locker
Inglourious Basterds
Precious: Based on the Novel
‘Push’ by Sapphire
Up in the Air
DOCUMENTARY FEATURE
Burma VJ
The Cove
Food, Inc.
The Most Dangerous Man in America: Daniel Ellsberg and the Pentagon Papers
Which Way Home
DOCUMENTARY SHORT
China’s Unnatural Disaster: The Tears of Sichuan Province
The Last Campaign of Governor Booth Gardner
The Last Truck: Closing of a GM Plant
Music by Prudence
Rabbit à la Berlin
FILM EDITING
Avatar
District 9
The Hurt Locker
Inglourious Basterds
Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire
FOREIGN LANGUAGE
Ajami
El Secreto de Sus Ojos
The Milk of Sorrow
Un Prophète
The White Ribbon
MAKE UP
Il Divo
Star Trek
The Young Victoria
MUSIC (ORIGINAL SCORE)
Avatar
Fantastic Mr. Fox
The Hurt Locker
Sherlock Holmes
Up
MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG)
“Almost There” from “The Princess and the Frog”
“Down in New Orleans” from “The Princess and the Frog”
“Loin de Paname” from “Paris 36”
“Take It All” from “Nine”
“The Weary Kind (Theme from Crazy Heart)” from “Crazy Heart”
SHORT FILM (ANIMATED)
French Roast
Granny O’Grimm’s Sleeping Beauty
The Lady and the Reaper
(La Dama y la Muerte)
Logorama
SHORT FILM (LIVE-ACTION)
A Matter of Loaf and Death
The Door
Instead of Abracadabra
Kavi
Miracle Fish
The New Tenants
SOUND EDITING
Avatar
The Hurt Locker
Inglourious Basterds
Star Trek
Up
SOUND MIXING
Avatar
The Hurt Locker
Inglourious Basterds
Star Trek
Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
VISUAL EFFECTS
Avatar
District 9
Star Trek
SCREENPLAY (ADAPTED)
An Education
In the Loop
Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire
Up in the Air
SCREENPLAY (ORIGINAL)
The Hurt Locker
Inglourious Basterds
The Messenger
A Serious Man
Up
BEST PICTURE
Avatar
The Blind Side
District 9
An Education
The Hurt Locker
Inglourious Basterds
Precious: Based on the
Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire
A Serious Man
Up
Up in the Air
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Music skins
So, it’s no secret that I’m an Obama fan. A little less than I was on election night on at the inauguration, but when I think what might have been, I just tell myself that I’m sure the president has a fan. I’m also a fan of my Iphone. It’s what I always dreamed of when I was younger creating the perfect technological advancement. A gadget that is a phone, computer, video player and television (thank you slingbox app)? Assuming I’m always someplace that has wifi, I’m pretty much set. And, now with my Iphone, I can show my Obama-love (or my Mets fandom or my Tupac appreciation) through Music skins - an easily removable decal you can stick on the back of your Iphone (or Blackberry, Palm, Ipod, any number of cel phones, e-readers or personal computers). There are an impressive number of decals to choose from, and the choices encompass a large breadth of the music world (though, no Bruce Springsteen, I’m sorry to say), fashion, art, and media. You can also upload your own image (assuming you own the rights). The decals are easy to take on and off and seem quite durable. I am quite happy with my Obama skin, so until they come out with a Springsteen skin, I don’t have cause to remove it. Prices range from $15 (for phones) to $35 (for game consoles).
Picture coming soon.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
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