Sunday, February 22, 2009

Top 5 Oscar Moments

The Oscars this year didn't have too many surprises. It was nice to see the little picture (Slumdog) win big. But it was also nice to see alot of Hollywood royalty in the new format. Here are my top 5s from tonight's Oscars.

1. New format for Actress/Actor categories
Love the new format! I hope they keep it this way. So much better than the dry just standing up there having last year's winner of the opposite sex present to this year's winner. Way to change it up! Not only is it awesome for people like us in the audience to see Hollywood heavies like Robert DeNiro, Michael Douglas, Sophia Loren, Goldie Hawn - all up on stage together. But in particular, I liked that each of them did their personal shout-out to one nominee, giving a personal touch to their commentary (ie - DeNiro's joking to Sean Penn about his "gentle handling of the paparazzi").

2. Pineapple Express montage of comedies
WTF was this?! Bold move, loved it! Nice way to pull in audience that may not be into the heavy dramas that typically get nominated. Normally, you'd think the Academy wouldn't want the silliness of the weed-ridden scene, but pulling in James Franco and Seth Rogen for this was brilliant. Nice that the Academy is checking in with the reality of what people watch!

3. Anne Hathaway singing
New respect for this girl. She even changed out of her fancy Armani gown that she wore on the red carpet, so she could do her little song and dance with Hugh.

4. Milk Screenwriter's acceptance speech
When Dustin Lance Black won the award for best original screenplay, so nice to hear him tie it back to the big picture of equal right for gays and lesbians. Rather than rattling off a list of everyone that has helped him in his career since his high school drama teacher - yah, no one knows those names and it's not going to make a difference. Nice work Dustin.

5. Hugh Jackman, nice surprise
I was doubtful as to what the hell this Australian host was going to bring to the awards. Refreshingly charming, classy and funny. For the Oscars, as much of a fan of Chris Rock as I am, he was much more appropriate. Modern and multi-skilled with his hosting, some dancing and singing (though that dance number had to go).

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