ALL IN THE FAMILY OR GOING TO THE BIRDS?
Academy years can often be predictable, but this is no ordinary year. Actors, producers and industry pros are very attached to certain movies and others … not so much.
One usually looks to earlier award ceremonies, like the Golden Globes, SAG, DGA and the like for trends and runaway hits.
This year hasn’t been so simple. The top categories are divided among “Birdman,” “Boyhood” and “The Grand Budapest Hotel” — three films that couldn’t be more different.
Some voters — like longtime local and DGA member Elaine Perkins — look for production, character, casting and story development, and give a big thumbs up when it all comes altogether. Elaine’s not that bothered by special effects, but she’ll zero in on weak story lines because, for her, it’s all about the telling of the tale.
Others — like “The Grand Budapest Hotel” crowd — go for pure color, revelry and fun. Then there is the old, roll up your sleeves dedication in the case of Richard Linklater, who spent 12 years devoted to a coming-of-age favorite called “Boyhood.” Some love him, others flock to “Birdman,” but, heck, I wouldn’t mind being acknowledged for any of my 12-year efforts.
There is a full-page, best picture, mega push for the Martin Luther King biopic “Selma.” It’s a fine piece of moving making and some are less than pleased that the flick got shut out of other important categories, like best director.
Malibu Seen predicts the bridesmaid, but never a bride, Julianne Moore will sweep with the big best actress prize on academy night. She’s already snagged the SAG and Golden Globe as well as other accolades. We predict the same for local Patricia Arquette in the supporting role for “Boyhood.” Malibu’s Jeffrey Katzenberg and Dreamworks’ “How to Train your Dragon 2” will likely pick up a win in the animated race. And keep an eye on Leonardo DiCaprio’s environmental documentary “Virunga.”
Now back to best pic, where things get a little tricky. “American Sniper,” “The Theory of Everything” and “Imitation Game” all seem like dark horses, but don’t count them out.
As Malibu Seen has said from the beginning, look to the big B’s: “Budapest,” “Boyhood” and “Birdman.” The same goes for director. Alejandro G. Inarritu just won the all-important DGA award, but as they say in Tinseltown, don’t count your birds before they’re hatched.
And the winners are … well, we’ll know for sure on Sunday.
FACING THE FASHION FACTS
Yes, it’s all about the awards this time of year, and that always means there’s no shortage of elegant fashions, picture-perfect faces and fabulous frocks on the fashion front.
It’s time for the biggest stars in the world to waltz down the most famous red carpet in the world, resplendent in millions of dollars of Harry Winston gems and dazzling Bvlgari jewels. This year’s biggest hues feature couture gowns in red, black, white and yes, “Fifty Shades of Grey.”
Putting your best face forward is every bit as important, as the stars take hours to prep their pouts and flash those luxurious lashes. From foundation to gloss, the gurus at Sephora will tell you it’s all about drama and sales, and makeup sessions here in Malibu are said to have been brisk. Many A-listers want a look that will wow, but not overwhelm, with emphasis on the eyes or the lips.
The pros say a beautiful smoky eye with extra long lashes, smudged eyeliner and striking shadows will command attention, but must be balanced with nice, soft and neutral lips. Or go the other way with bold, bright standout lips and a lighter touch up on top. No matter which you choose, treat yourself like a red carpet queen. With a little help from those in the know, you’re bound to look like a million bucks.