Hats off to the awards show for utilizing Hugh Jackman’s singing and dancing talents. Mr. Jackman was a brilliant host, and truly shined during the ceremony’s musical numbers. His singing voice was pleasing to the ears, and he nailed every choreographed step on stage with many other superstars; such as Beyonce Knowles and Best Actress nominee Anne Hathaway (who looked very glamorous in her evening gown).
Breaking away from past award show formats, Sunday night’s ceremony introduced an extremely classy way to introduce the nominees in the actors categories. Previously, a celebrity or two would read off the names of those nominated, and then tear open the envelope bearing the winner’s name. This year was different. For the Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Supporting Actress categories, five past winners walked out on stage simultaneously, and each one would speak kind words directly to each nomimee congratulating them on their nomination. I reiterate how very classy and stylish this form of praise was, because although there could only be one winner in each category, to be honored and even thanked in front of their peers for the outstanding performances accomplished in their respective films was enough to make each nominee appreciate the Academy’s recognition for their creative efforts. The intent being to make each celebrity feel like a winner regardless of whether or not they were handed the Oscar. I hope this is done in future Academy Awards shows.
“Slumdog Millionaire” won in eight of the ten categories for which it was nominated; including Best Picture, Best Director – Danny Boyle, and Best Adapted Screenplay – Simon Beaufoy. “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” was awarded three Oscars. Sean Penn won for his portrayal of Harvey Milk in “Milk”: his second win in five Best Actor nominations. After being nominated six times in the past, Kate Winslet won her first Oscar in the Best Actress category for playing the role of Hanna Schmitz in “The Reader”. For his role as the Joker in “The Dark Knight”, the late Heath Ledger won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor, which was accepted by his parents and sister. Penelope Cruz was awarded the Best Supporting Actress Oscar in Woody Allen’s “Vicky Cristina Barcelona”.
The full winners list can be found here:
Oscar.com
