So I get this press release from Blockbuster declaring that the 'people' have spoken. Okay, sounds interesting, and I love it when the 'people' speak so I read on. According to Blockbuster, if the average American chose this year's winners,
No Country for Old Men would be Best Film,
Johnny Depp would narrowly edge out
George Clooney for Best Actor, and cutie
Ellen Page would take home the Best Actress statuette for her portrayal of a pregnant teen with attitude to spare.
Just from having my ear to the ground, and also from reading every single bit of Oscar news I can get my hands on, I think the 'people' will more than likely be disappointed with the eventual Oscar winners. Johnny Depp, while one of this generation's best, hasn't built up any buzz. And Ellen Page, well, she's facing some extremely stiff competition. However, all hope's not lost for the people.
No Country for Old Men is riding a tide of wins and right this very second appears to be the favorite in the Best Film category.
Chances are no one is going to be 100% satisfied with this year's winners. It just doesn't happen. And before you blast the Oscar voters, remember everyone is entitled to their own opinion - even the 5,829 Academy members who have the final say in selecting which actors, producers, directors, editors, etc., etc., etc., get to add the coveted 'Academy Award-winner' tag to their names.
While the Oscars just can't make every person happy, if some journalists - including About.com's own World/Independent Film Guides Jurgen Fauth and Marcy Dermansky - had their way, there would be an entirely different batch of nominees to choose from. Fauth and Dermansky have put together a list of 'should haves' that's an absolute must read for movie fans:
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