To be sure, this will be one of the most interesting Oscar ceremonies in years, given the variety of films and the stories they tell—not to mention the quirkiness of the situation with the no host controversy, and the controversy over the academy choosing to give out four major awards during commercial breaks to save time. (Whaaaat?) After an outcry, the situation was resolved.
So, let’s review the top vote-getters.
Hit: “Roma” is an unlikely contender with a whopping 10 nods. The Spanish-language black and white saga is up for not only best foreign film but the biggie best picture, and a Netflix one at that.
Director Alfonso Cuarón revisits his childhood and says he is amazed by the overwhelming response “around the world.” Some of his other nominations include best original screenplay, best cinematography, production design and sound editing. Most critics consider this a hit and a win.
Miss: Why “The Favourite” has 10 Oscar nods is a mystery to me. Not even the period wardrobe, wigs and eye candy can save this painful film, which is filled with needless vomiting, a sickly queen and her lesbian trysts. Malibu Seen grew up on Masterpiece Theater and this would be a reject in all categories. It’s so cringe-worthy I even saw it twice. The first time, I walked out; the second time, I dared to go back to see if I was missing something. Skip it!
Hit: I am probably alone in this one, but “Green Book” is, by my book, the best film of the year. It tells the tale of a black virtuoso and a tough white Italian American bouncer who is his hired as his driver. The oddest of odd couples, they develop a deep friendship and deep respect for one another. Based on a true story, they tour the deep South where the white bouncer gets to stay at Hilton-esque hotels while the black musician and star was relegated to “black-only” motels. A must see. It will renew your faith in humanity.
Hit: Malibu’s Lady Gaga in “A Star is Born” is the local favorite. She is sure to win best song for a “Star is Born” and will perform it live with Bradley Cooper, but the movie mojo for best actress seems to be going with Glenn Close.
Even though Malibu Seen is going against the grain on a lot of these picks, I would be shocked if Rami Malek doesn’t pick up best actor for “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Sure, Christian Bale proudly plopped on 40 pounds of body blob to transform himself into Cheney in “Vice,” but Queen was my era. I saw Freddie Mercury several times in concert (I have never had the “pleasure” of meeting Mr. Cheney).
Malek wasn’t playing Freddie Mercury, he was Freddie Mercury, and his portrayal captured his essence as if he were magically brought back to life.
Hit: We will see, but long overlooked Spike Lee should be a shoe-in for best director for “BLACKkKLANSMAN.” The movie is nominated in six categories, including picture of the year.
In addition to Lady G, there are lots of other locals to root for, like Sam Elliott in “A Star is Born” and the feel good visual effects of “Mary Poppins Returns,” featuring the original, one and only, longtime resident Dick Van Dyke.
Sure, the Oscars have seen an audience decline in recent years which, given the gripes, is understandable. But this year’s ceremony celebrates films that couldn’t be more different, inspirational, disturbing, uplifting and educational and some just plain bad. So get yourself a pan of Jiffy Pop and make a special night of it. Annnd…. Roll ‘em!
The Academy Awards will take place Sunday, Feb. 24.