And the Winner Is...

I just finished watching the Academy Awards, usually a rather drawn-out boring three or so hours. This year, perhaps due to a more Global Consciouness, the Economy or just evolution it grabbed and held my attention. Gone the big production numbers, glitz and phoniness of borrowed couture and diamonds. This was an almost intimate celebration of the arts and a relinquishing of the 'big power' studios held in the realms of what is supposed to be an expression of art.

I, the cynic, found myself with tears forming in my eyes as humble recipients thanked their peers for thier support. I didn't see the disappointment, usually found in the faces of the other nominees, as someone else won. No, this was happiness I have not seen, well, ever!

The acceptance speeches said something, not just reeling off lists of names and the phoney gushing that exceeded time-limits and got the orchestra playing in.

Hugh Jackman hosted with aplomb and talent and didn't drag out the hoary old jokes of former years, perhaps as he is an entertainer and not just a stand-up comic, not that anything is wrong with stand-up, but it was just so tasteful.

The people who won in their different categories were evenly spread for talent in their areas, not the sympathy, pat-on-the-back, courtesies, though Heath Ledger's family were tasteful in the acceptance of their son and brothers achievements, it didn't feel like a get-em-before -they- are- underground win.

Mickey Rourke got his nod, and when he didn't win for best actor, he was fine with having been acknowledged and Sean Penn graciously and with real honesty, proclaimed Mickey's return as a win in itself.

He also admitted the hate and bias witnessed by them all, as protestors, the Yes on 8 fanatics, who dissolved so many gay and lesbian marriages, held signs of unacceptance and hate outside the Kodak Theatre. He warned them that they will not prevail, that one day, no matter how many gays or blacks or other 'minorities' (women included) you shoot or get rid of, the right way will triumph in the end.

Jerry Lewis, looking like he had had A LOT of work done, received a Jean Hersholdt Award for his work and his humanity with Jerry's Kids over the decades, he too was on the receiving end of hate with disabled people protesting on Hollywood and Highland that he made the Kid's feel like they should be pitied rather than admired for being able to do things and be  more useful members of society. I think that shameful, as we, and I include myself for being disabled with arthritis, therefore the recipient of benefits, that they take the help offered but don't want a worthwhile charity to continue because it spotlights them not being able-bodied.

When will people get a life?!

The jewel in the crown was the number of awards given to Slumdog Millionaire.

It was as if all the artists and technical people involved had had a mystical experience whilst in Mumbai and came away better people for it.

I know there are those who would say it magnifies a section of humanity that is less than noble, when there is more to India than poverty and thieves, but this is why it is so meaningful, just as films about the ghettos of America, the Appalachian's and the slums  of Northern England's Asian community, we know the glorious mansions and well-off middle classes also exist, but the dichotomy is what is necessary to learn.

I have not seen Slumdog as yet, but am looking forward to it.

The music/soundtrack and singer of the winning song said it so well in his first time up to receive an award. Paraphrasing as I do rather than look it up...he said that it was ironic that this soundtrack should win as his country is known for the silent sound of 'Om'. it was beautiful and he was so gracious and humble, he well deserved his awards as they all did.

Queen latifah sang an old standard, "I'll be Seeing You", while the people the Industry lost in 2008, flashed on the screen, the finale, Paul Newman, delivering a line from one of his early films, brought the whole house down with tears and cheers, as he expounded on what is truely important in a lifetime 'Everlasting love'. there wasn't a dry eye in the house!

I hope wherever you are you were or will be able to see this show.

Goodnight. That's a wrap.