I actually enjoyed last night’s Academy Awards as a production. Hugh Jackman is a performer! I’d invite him back. The stage was amazing in a way that wasn’t over-the-top extravagant or one of those “looked good on paper” budget busting disasters. Crystal curtains are expensive, no doubt, but it was well worth the price.

I just took at look at the second floor show act with Beyonce Knowles. I’d recommend that she take jazz dance and Fosse technique classes. Her body doesn’t punctuate the music. This kind of dancing is not Vogueing, strutting, or pole dance grind. It’s a technique, and I’m not going to say it’s easy. Beyonce is always willing to do the work. So I’ll throw out that recommendation. In this case, I was watching Hugh Jackman and the chorus to take in the choreography. Like in “Cadillac Dreams” Beyonce disappeared for me when she was in a duet with a more experienced talent.

No anger about the winners. “Man On A Wire” won best documentary feature (about the French performance artist who did a high wire walk between the twin towers of the World Trade Center). Because there were no “Independent Lens” films in this category, I didn’t pay too much attention. 🙂

I actually liked the 5 presenters for the acting categories. You didn’t have to win to feel appreciated and honored with that format if you’re gracious about the results. I’d invite that format back to see if it plays a second time. The presenters were not announced in press releases, so the element of surprise played a role.

I didn’t see most of the movies, only “The Dark Night” and “Milk.” I applaud Sean Penn . I always do. I knew Heath Ledger was a shoe in for Best Supporting Actor. I don’t see this as a pitty award. He was brilliant in “The Dark Knight” as the Joker; dwarfed Jack Nicholson’s interpretation to a joke. Ledger’s death is a loss. I would’ve looked forward to his next film.

Kate Winslet’s acceptance speech was a personal moment that didn’t seem to impose on the public’s patience, and her father’s whistle puntuated it. I’ve heard more about “The Reader” as a book club pick than as a film. I’ll check my Netflix account after I finish this blog.

“Slumdog Millionaire” may have drawn criticism in India for its use of the word “dog” in the title and its lens on “what’s wrong” with India vs. “what’s right.” But I’m sure no one’s complaining too much about winning 8 Oscars including Best Director for Danny Boyle, and Best Picture. I’ll have to explore this one including the back stories and the controversies. I’m sure one of the questions on the table is how would this film have played with an Indian director and producer behind it? The Times of London hails it as leading last night’s “British Triumph.” Well, there you are. Regardless, I’ll add it to my Netflix basket. Friends who’ve seen “Slumdog Millionaire” have recommended it. ‘m just moved that mainstream is getting more and more global. There’s room for everybody.

Overall, no surprises, and a good show.

I have a low budget production coming up. I need to review the opening. I wonder if Hugh is taking this show on the road.