Post-Oscar

The broadcast of the Academy Awards last night was one of the most enjoyable in years. From Ellen DeGeneres, who was near-perfect, to the back-lit dancers, to the various short compilation films and musical performances, the show was fantastic.

For a program that was three and a half hours (actually three and three-quarters, running just fifteen minutes long), it moved at a nice pace, rarely dragging down. Speeches were quick and heart-felt.

For those reading this who did not see the show, there were wonderful “live” moments, such as when Will Smith’s son moved a little too quickly to the next award. He is a pro already, finding a way to recover nicely. Clint Eastwood, who is an incredible man, didn’t wear his glasses to the stage and had to ad lib an introduction to Marconi. After the award was presented, he needed to act as interpreter. Both situations made for great television.

Alan Arkin, another actor who is wonderful, brought home an Oscar for his wonderful performance as a dirty-old grandfather in “Little Miss Sunshine”. I applaud anyone who has Chicago roots.

Melissa Etheridge got the upset of the night, fending off three tunes from Dreamgirls and a good Randy Newman piece with her song from “An Inconvenient Truth”. After listening to all five performances, and without criticizing any of the others, hers was the absolutely the best.

Then there is Al Gore, who is beginning his career as a comic actor in Hollywood. He and Leo DiCaprio worked out a bit that they pulled off well. His eloquent documentary, “An Inconvenient Truth” (which I can not mention enough) brought home a couple awards including Best Documentary Film. I have not seen the others to say if it truly was the best, but it certain was a great film and I hope more people see it.

Jodie Foster delivered a fine introduction to my favorite segment, “In Memoriam”. I wish they had used a clip from “Pleasantville” when remembering Don Knotts, and presented the audio clip of the awards where Maureen Stapleton won for “Reds”. When she won, she came up to the stage and said, “I would like to thank everyone I ever met.” It was sincere, wonderful and as great an Oscar moment as you can find.

There were a few moments that left me scratching my head, but there really was not anything glaring or worth mentioning. It was a great night for everyone and I am glad I didn’t wait to watch the tape. Let’s hope the same team does it again next year!