Life Between Films

1. (Last minute replacement) Billy Crystal couldn’t save the hosting gig. I love the Oscars. It’s sometimes pretentious and has the rep of being a long drawn-out boring awards show, but it’s glamour, it’s grand, it represents the beauty of the Hollywood movie tradition. I will watch as long as I’m able (Oscar, I just can’t quit you!). That being said, the show has been struggling in the hosting gig for alittle while. Last year, the duo of Franco-Hathaway was cringe-worthy (I had such high hopes!). This year, I almost had a heart attack when they announced Eddie Murphy was hosting (sorry, but I think he peaked in the 90s). I was alittle hopeful when he dropped out, but then they brought in the old standby Billy Crystal. Yes, he’s a legend for having hosting (now) nine times, but the times have changed. And the academy trying to then weave in theme of Old Hollywood didn’t help any. Which brings me to the fact that… 

2. The present generation of comedians were the highlight of the show. Never have I looked forward to the presentation of awards so much. Will Ferrell and Zach G. with the symbols, Chris Rock on the ease (and lucrativeness) of animation acting, and hilarious RDJ’s documentary bit. It felt like a very entertaining audition for next year’s hosting gig. Pay attention, academy! 

3. Standing ovations are in. The O’s stood for Octavia and Oprah last night and derservingly so. I’m so happy Octavia won for her rich performance in The Help. To me her journey is that of the underdog. Hopefully, this will up her profile to more interesting and nuanced roles. And Oprah, well, she’s Oprah. 

4. Emma Stone will forever have my heart. And the award for Most Entertaining Moment definitely goes to Emma Stone. It reminded me back when I first saw her in Easy A, how there is such a fresh ease to her funniness. I laughed so much I didn’t mind that huge ass bow on her shoulder. Hey, Emma, are you looking for a new BFF?

5. You go against Meryl Streep, you most likely will get your feelings hurt. Better luck next time, Viola. I really wished you would have won. Damn you, Streep. 

6. Skipping The Artist was a mistake. Seriously, that Frenchmen is so damn charming, terrific, and enjoyable to watch even on the award show circuit. Is there anymore awards I can see him win? Since I missed seeing both The Descendants and The Artist (I’ve been busy!), I told myself I’d see whichever won as a post-Oscars treat. To the theater this week I go, and I couldn’t be more excited. 

Curious about the winners, see a complete list here.