I can’t believe Miss Saigon opened this week – the year is just FLYING by. The Super bowl was this past Sunday, we’re already nearly half-way through February, and do you know what that means?? The Academy Awards are right around the corner! Oscar Night on March 7th is the “Super Bowl” of awards shows and I already have my ballot printed out. Let’s talk predictions…
I’ll admit, I’ve been a slacker this season and there are many nominated movies I still haven’t seen. I’ll have to squeeze in some movie days over the next weekend but I think that’ll make for some nice family time. Let’s start with Best Picture – I loved “Avatar,” but I’m not sure it’s “Best Picture” worthy. I think “Precious” will probably win Best Picture. What do you think? If “Avatar” doesn’t win Best Art Direction I think I’ll cry. It’s so beautiful I feel like it’s caused a strange bought of depression for viewers. I’ve heard people expressed real sadness that they can’t experience true-life settings like that. One friend said that driving home from the theatre and stopping at a gas station was painful after watching “Avatar” in 3d, which prompted me to search “Avatar Blues.” Apparently the feeling is common! I found multiple articles similar to this one on CNN. That’s some pretty powerful artwork! Also on the artsy side are the Animated Feature Film nominees. I like “Fantastic Mr. Fox” or “UP” for that category.
“Nine” received 3 nominations - for Best Original Song, for Costume Design and Penelope Cruz received a well-deserved nomination for her supporting role. I hope it wins the costume design category, there was some AMAZING work there and it would be appropriate considering the numerous “fantastic costumes” references by Dame Judy Dench (loves!) I’m excited to see “Coco Before Chanel,” which also received a nomination for costume design. Audrey Tautou, who plays Coco, is one of my favorite actresses. Although, I suppose her acting has nothing to do with the costume design. I’d still like to see it. Sounds fab!
Now – I do have some complaints. Why wasn’t “Where The Wild Things Are” considered for Visual Effects or for Original Score? There was also a documentary about Chorus Line out this year, called “Every Little Step.” It was WONDERFUL! It should have been nominated. Steven Eng, who plays Thuy in the currently running Miss Saigon, was involved in that project with Baayork Lee.
I suppose it’s hard to narrow down such an immense pool of talent. Readers, how do you feel about the nominations? Do you have any award-night routines? Is there any one show you feel just MUST win something? Talk to me!
See you under the stars!
Thea