The Oscars........

[mclem0822]

Great to see Billy Crystal back as host, i have always felt he's done a great job. Last year's hosts (Anne Hathaway & James Franco), while fine actors i thought they left a lot to be desired hosting wise, just my opinion. My choices in the major categories will follow. Please let me know who you all like, who you don't, your thoughts on the films and the show tonight.

Best Picture: "The Artist". For me it was a bit of a struggle, because i adored "Hugo" as well. These 2 pictures stood out in my opinion. 3rd picks would be "The Decendants" and "Tree of Life" neck and neck.

Best Actor: Jean DuJardin in "The Artist" his performance was just extrordinary, this film is silent but his facial expressions spoke volumes IMO.
George Clooney was very good in "The Decendants" he'd be my 2nd choice in a tie with Gary Oldman who was very good in "Tinker, Talior, Soldier, Spy"

Best Actress: Have not seen all the performances. Viola Davis was very good in "The Help" and seems to have momentum. Streep's work i have not seen "The Iron Lady" but i am quite sure she's terrific, and a win wouldn't shock me.

Best Supporting Actor: Another spot i am not prepared for. Jonah Hill in "Moneyball" was good. Christopher Plummer in "Beginners" seems to have the edge here.

Best Supporting Actress: Octavia Spencer in "The Help" would be my choice of the performances i have seen. Jessica Chastain also in "The Help" was strong as well.

Best Director: Martin Scorsese for "Hugo" did an incredible job he would be my choice. But this was a tough category in my opinion. Michel Hazanavicius for "The Artist" amazing job, Terrence Malick for "Tree of Life" very good. Woody Allen for "Midnight In Paris" wouldn't shock me either, very strong category IMO.

Best Original Screenplay: Woody Allen for "Midnight In Paris" would be my slight choice, over Michel Hazanavicius for "The Artist" the 2 standouts of the pictures i have seen.

Best Adapted Screenplay: Alexander Payne, Nat Faxon, Jim Rash for "The Decendants" get the nod slightly of John Logan for "Hugo" tough choice, neither would shock me.

Those are my opinions and choices, wish i had found time to see more of the nominees. One of my resolutions, see more pictures this year! Finding time is the harder goal, need to make time. Enjoy the show all!