8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Deepshark — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 07:20:39 GMT

Thank goodness I'm apathetic and missed it all.....phew !

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

rudi somuah — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 07:31:02 GMT

That Beyounce needs to loose some weight! forget sexy. that woman is fat. Since when is fat sexy?and why give Sean Penn another oscar? Why not Mickey Rourke? Next time find a singer who can actually move. And let that Beyounce stay home!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

KatieMF — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:27:17 GMT

The Oscars bombed? That's news to me. This was the first time I ever watched the Oscars in it's entirety and the first time my husband didn't leave the room after 20 minutes to go watch T.V. elsewhere. We enjoyed every minute of it, even all the techincal awards. I found the whole shoe to be emotional, entertainting, fresh, and respectful. Anyone who thinks differently must be a cyncial nutball.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

macca1324 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:27:51 GMT

It's frustrating that The Curious Case of Benjamin Button can win both Special Effects and Makeup Oscars! It can't be both. And the In Memorium montage was impossible to follow. Buy those guys a tripod for next year.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

bad_kitty — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:29:18 GMT

Queen Latifah actually sang "I'll be seeing you" not "I will remember you". To me, it was the classiest moment of the night (and her gown one of the lovliest, in contrast to a tired series of grayish one shoulder gowns). I dont' get how "Slumdog" warranted 8 Oscars, yet not a single acting Oscar. This movie is no "Godfather" or "Gone with the Wind."

I agree Beyonce looked heavy, especially her legs. The song and dance medley seemed out of place this year. Hugh Jackman's assertion that "the musical is BACK!!!" seems 6 years too late (as in, 6 years ago, I thought "Chicago" really brought back the musical".

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

T4today — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:39:12 GMT

This was by far the worst attempt at entertainment that’s ever come out of Hollywood. Perhaps all the stars, directors, and producers ought to stop dabbling in politics and start relearning their craft which is “entertainment”.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

xQQQme — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:41:03 GMT

So would it kill you and your 20-something friends to watch a show that is un-hip, features presenters "who haven't been seen in decades" and is not all about just the stars you know?

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

T4today — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:41:24 GMT

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Bangkok — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:45:41 GMT

I thought the show was fabulous! I think Hugh J. is phenomenal in the comedy, dance, sing departments. I most enjoyed the method used to present best actor/actress, etc. awards. I like to see past winners and the idea that the new winners are joining a special circle of people is lovely. Lay off Beyoncé! She has talent and looks great - aren't we supposed to be embracing ALL shapes and sizes? The worst part of the show was the stupid clip of James F. and Seth on the couch. Classless.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

jleighv — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:50:49 GMT

This article is ridiculous. The author comes off as trying way to hard. Yes, every 20-something was twitter-ing how boring the oscars were. Please. It reads as negative just for the sake of being contrary. How exactly would the author have put together the show?

It was entertaining, the 5 past winners was historic, and nice to see one actor commending another. Personally, I really enjoyed the show. Hugh Jackman is such an entertainer. And for once, there were no awkward pauses when the host would go to far on a joke at an actor's expense. It's the Oscars, not a stand up show. It was about movies, how they start, how they are put together and the people who make them happen.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

carmelsix — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:56:11 GMT

You know what does skew young? Ryan Seacrest, American Idol, Zac Efron, and Vanessa Hudgens.

I'm 26, but I know that this culture is already too fixated on "skewing young."

Boo hoo - watch a grown-up show, Ms. Ball. I thought it was fun and entertaining.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

mishy23 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:59:09 GMT

Can't disagree more. I thought the show was a rip! The opening sequence was one of the best I've seen in possibly a decade. I don't think I laughed so hard in years! Hugh Jackman was hysterical, cheesy, charming and best yet, he can actually sing! Bringing Anne Hathaway up was fantastic, as she's a charmer in her own right!

I really enjoyed the heck out of the show. I didn't really love the five people doing the nominees for some of the categories, but it was different, I'll give them that.

As for Jennifer Aniston / Jack Black, does anyone REALLY care? We all KNEW the camera would pan to Brad and Angelina. That's not a shock. They were very clearly expecting it, as they both smiled broadly, looking unaffected. No sneers or frowns there. They're not stupid. The only idiots are the ones that wouldn't expect a cameraman to pan to them when Jennifer was on stage.

Ben Stiller mocking Joaquin was another high point of the night. Hysterical!

It had its highs and lows, but all told it was FAR better than previous years, when I tuned out after the first half hour. I do think they should have done the best song medley differently, but I loved the combination of music styles and dancing styles and enjoyed the performance for the most part.

Beyonce did look a little thick in the legs, but I love how people criticize that. About half of our country is obese - OBESE - and we have the audacity to mock Beyonce and her fit figure? Really? I bet most of you that are being critical are enormous. Have another chip and keep laughing at how "fat" Beyonce is. She's laughing herself all the way to the bank, and then laughing some more at home in bed with her handsome husband.

Hopefully they'll bring back Hugh Jackman to host again. He was really wonderful!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

playingsmart — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:03:06 GMT

Maybe it felt like you tuned into the Bollywood channel because the nominated songs were from a movie about INDIA. Plus, you cited the wrong song performed by Queen Latifah ("I'll Be Seeing You" maybe?). And if you were watching the Oscars expecting it to be "young and fresh" and less than three hours, why did you bother? Maybe you should have spent the evening hanging out with your much cooler friends who twittered and Blackberried you all night. Clearly, you were way too cool to watch the Oscars.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

tired and old — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:04:22 GMT

HOLLYWOOD HONORING THEIR OWN LIBERAL ACTORS FOR POLITICAL REASONS.

NO TALENT REQUIRED !

SEAN PENN PLAYS A HOLLYWOOD FAVORITE " HOMOSEXUAL ".

SEAN PENN SHOULD BE REMEMBERED FOR THIS CHARACTOR ------- FOREVER !

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

mangosdca — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:04:57 GMT

I totally agree with jleighv. I thought the show was FABULOUS. The 5 past winners was a brilliant way to pay tribute to the nominees. FUN, FUN, FUN show and Jackman was GREAT!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

vboss — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:14:24 GMT

I thought it was the best one ever. Did we watch the same show?

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Ballymorrow — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:18:53 GMT

The awards show was OUTSTANDING, Ms. Ball is totally off the mark! Loved-it, and we had never intended to watch it at all, let alone for the full duration. KUDO's to the Academy for turning the creative folks loose with a new license to suceed ... loved the crystal frame around the stage too - very creative, constantly changing & painting a different frame for the on-stage events! (Sarah, fix your hair too, it's also more than slightly off the mark - offered with kind intent)

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

TobyInTampa — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:21:08 GMT

To me, this article is just one more example of the direction that so many movies and other so called "entertainment" venues are taking .... "a gimic disguised as talent that will not last the test of time." In one breath, the show is "un-hip" and not catering to the youth crowd, while at the same time being continously compared to American Idol ... the ratings juggernaut that caters to .... um, YOUTH! And to say that the hi-lite of the evening was the skit between James Franco & Seth Rogan further exemplifies that unless humor includes references to weed or getting laid, that it's not humor. These guys have one, no, make that two, jokes ... smoking pot and having sex. Gee .... I'm bent over double laughing.

This show is about movies and moviemaking and honoring those who are involved in that process. And given the option to have a potential Oscar given to me by five of my fellow peers as opposed to some fly-by-night pretty boy actor or actress who, again, has some gimic that people have confused as talent, you better believe that I would choose the group of esteemed actors.

With a few exceptions, The Oscars have never been noted for their "spectacular" production numbers. Let's leave that up to the Tony Awards. Afterall, Broadway is much more suited for that type of entertainment anyway.

If you want to get swept away by the type of entertainment you seem to be desiring from the idiotic comments you made in your article, I suggest you stick to the MTV Video Awards.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Ballymorrow — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:23:20 GMT

Also, I'm not generally a Sean Penn fan, but God bless him for his role as Harvey Milk and for his activities to bring American consciousness in step with REAL morality ... ALL people are created EQUAL friends, ALL people ...

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

ruberube — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:25:28 GMT

The Oscars has become a parody of itself…

A self serving, overindulgent exercise of narcissism…

Theres something about the current situation as millions of Americans are losing their

homes and their families to watch such glamour and conceit framed by the television cameras

that cost hundreds of thousands of dollars all for the sake of vanity!

I love film media, but sincere media at this time in history should be used for the betterment of humanity not the individual. Hence the Slumdog phenomena.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

ccageorge — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:26:24 GMT

Well, I thought this was one fo the better Oscare presentations.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

bigrazoo — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:27:51 GMT

I refuse to watch any awards shows anymore because the Hollyweird types can't keep their political opinions to themselves. Just because they make movies and way to much money, they think their opinion is the only ones that matter, that they are more important that a citizen who is dealing with the real world right now, and Sean Penn can keep all his comments to himself.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

intheair — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:28:30 GMT

Actually, you just sound racist against Australians....SAD BUT TRUE..

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

peacetoyou — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:29:25 GMT

I liked the show, although I would have liked to see more clips of the actors in their movies. I also thought most of the women dressed very elegantly this year.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

mj it — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:29:34 GMT

I loved how the presenters introduced the next nominees as mentors - that was very cool. Intercutting old clips with the new films - way off base. Not allowing Peter Gabriel to sing his whole nominated song, while having a chaotic and boring musical number in the middle ... waa shameful. Other than that the design and pacing were good - oh - the memorial section was shot horribly. It was more like a tribute to sweeping camera moves ... instead of focusing on the subject.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Snowedin — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:31:09 GMT

I loved the Oscars! Hugh Jackman was terrific in his opening musical review and I think having the former Oscar winners present was a nice segue from past shows. I haven't even seen the movies nominated, but enjoyed the Oscars anyway because it was different from what's been done before. I've said it before...reviewers like to hear the sound of their own spew. They're so busy trying to poke holes that they can't see the forest for the trees. In this case, perhaps you should stick with shows that might amuse the under 21 crowd.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

intheair — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:32:44 GMT

When the media annoints the ignorant to wear the crown of the critic you get these types of nasty put down to the ARTS. You are just another mean spirited writer.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

mj it — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:33:10 GMT

oh - those two guys watching on the couch was stupid and a waste of time ... that could have cut the show to a decent half hour less ... along with the boring musical number in the middle.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

oatmeal2348 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:33:39 GMT

You are 100% correct. They should have played video clips of the top acting awards. I didn't mind the tributes from previous winners ... they actually did give a little more perspective on why the person was nominated than we could have gotten from a :15 second clip. However, the producers should have (at least) put in a third box showing the performance. It made the whole thing seem little too 'inside Hollywood' and those who had never seen the movies were left wondering what everyone was talking about.

I also agree about the odd insertion of old movie clips into the Best Picture montage ... very confusing, and I fould myself playing 'Name that Movie' rather than appreciating the Best Picture nominees.

As for Sean Penn ... not winning anymore fans for saying people who voted against Prop 8 should be ashamed, and I'm glad there was little more than a tepid response when he criticized people's belief in our silly gods. I wonder if he bumped into the one "Slumdog Millionaire' winner who ended by saying God is great. How refreshing it would have been to hear that from any of the western actors!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Jibran — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:35:24 GMT

WTF - were you watching the same show. I have watched the Oscars for the past 15 years and this was among the best shows. I think all this drivel is due to the fact that the "brownies" took so many awards and also put up quite a show....

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

bychance71 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:35:42 GMT

I honestly think people are just getting sick of Hollywood. Hard working people are out there in the real world everyday and Hollywood is constantly lecturing us on how to live. They complain about what entrepreneurs and business make and how much we should live…they make 20 million for a three month movie job and complain when their water isn’t served at exactly 42 degrees.

Also, why do we care what young inexperienced people think? It was a joke watching 18 year entertainers and kids doing commercials in the last election…what do they know about life year…Get a real job and some life experience and then give me your opinions.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

mj it — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:36:29 GMT

birazoo - go back to school and learn English. You're embarrassing yourself and our education system.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

nikky428 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:38:14 GMT

Yes, it was just YOU. The changes you decry were essential to a show that was a remarkable departure from the boredom of previous presentations, and WERE the basis for the show's overall success.

The honoring of nominees at a personal level, by their peers, rather than spewing 15 second mindless clips during their announcement, was both endearing and a wonderful departure.

Hugh Jackman's performance was the glue that kept it light, moving, and entertaining. The production numbers were spectacular.

Segmenting the show as they did gave it structure and gave meaning to the groups of awards.

Yes, the show ran 30 minutes beyond schedule. Each award recipient was given the opportunity to express their gratitude, without the orchestra rudely playing over their words to cut them off. I'll take an extra 30 minutes of this entertainment every year.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Brosky — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:38:52 GMT

The best Oscars were back in the days when Bob Hope and Johny Carson hosted. And where is Billy Crystal? At least he is still alive. In my opinion Billy was the last greatest host they had. Hugh Jackman was there only because they needed to promote movies. How else do you think he of all people got selected? Everything about showbiz today revolves around marketing, with some somke and mirrors thrown in so that we all think it "just happens that way". All the marriages, divorces, pregnancies, who's dating who, etc., in my opinion is created in some PR department in order to keep certain so called actors and entertainers in the media to sell their next movie. My theory of how scripted and contrived this whole thing is was bolstered when they only had 3 songs nominated, 2 from the same movie no less, and how they left out Springsteen altogether. Won't surprise me when some day they only have one nominee for a category and then tell you the "voting" is audited by the same accounting firm that oversaw the banks that failed. By the way, why didn't they introduce us to those guys like they always did in the past? Maybe becaue they were still "tabulating" the results in the basement.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

lkohar — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:40:07 GMT

I think this years Oscars were the best ever. I loved the musical entertainment numbers. Hugh Jackman was great.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

74transporter — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:41:29 GMT

Sarah, there does happen to be a few people on the planet that are OVER 25, much as you'd like to forget it. We're here and we're listening and watching and buying (or not buying) music and entertainment and news. GROW UP, VAPID CUSPER.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

carolync — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:42:47 GMT

James Franco and Seth Rogen in that prerecorded video...stupid! Yeah, I'm sure it appealed to the younger crowd, silly and crass as they are.

I LOVED the musical prdocution number, esp. the Beyonce/Hugh Jackman number. It did NOT look like "Idol" - it was reminiscent of the grand old musicals, which I love.

I really liked having 5 past Oscar winners pay tribute to the nominees for best actors/esses and supporting actors/esses. I thought that was pretty classy. It's nice to see past winners.

However, there were too many screens, too much confusion with past movies, the best song presentations sucked, there was just too much clutter and things going on. Bombardment to the max. Ugh.

Less is more...the opening shot with the band on the stage and the hanging crystals was lovely and I liked the shape of the stage and cabaret feel at the beginning. But it got cluttered up with STUFF as the evening went on. I wish the band had just stayed in full view all the time.

Yep...trying to cater to the young set who tend to have zero attention spans, with a clutter of screens and movement and business was a mistake. Except for that fab production number that filled the stage, the evening seemed like it was on drugs. Started w/ class and got progressively unclassy, for the most part.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

ceelwood — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:51:50 GMT

Why no lifetime achievement award?

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

vermischt — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:53:48 GMT

As one old enough to recall the likes of Johnny Carson hosting the show, I can state with certainty that attempting to make the Oscars hipper or more youth-friendly will no more revive the show than will attempting to recapture the feel of classic old-school Hollywood. Even back in the 60s and 70s the show was a mix of glamour and kitsch with an occasional bizarro interlude.Strangest Oscars of all time? You should have been watching when Native American Sacheen Littlefeather stepped up looking like Pocahontas tp pick up Marlon Brando's Godfather Oscar. Or when a streaker ran behind presenter David Niven.

No, if the sheen of the Oscars is fading, it's simply a reflection of the times - the ubiquity and pervasiveness of celebrity pop culture. When there was no internet and no 24/7 entertainment channels, Oscar night, however goofy and cornball, retained an air of specialness, a rare - emphasis on RARE - opportunity to see movie stars off the screen. What could possibly be so special about that anymore? Maybe we need to let the Oscars slide gracefully into old age and return to the days when they were less like the Super Bowl more like a simple industry party thrown by Hollywood to honor their own.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

XIII — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:56:40 GMT

Cynical, negative, overtly judgemental yet ridiculously superficial...Sarah Ball; your the type of person with voice that makes this country look bad, and shame on Newsweek for employing you.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

pastorized — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:59:54 GMT

At the end of Slum Dog Milionaire, I kept thinking how in the world did they get two songs nominated? I still don't know.

Yes, the stageed numbers were all stupid, they didn't fit with honoring movies.

The way they remembered those who passed away was moronic. They kept showing Queen Latifah instead of showing those who they were remembering. I might have missed it, but I didn't even see Heath Ledger mentioned during the tribute.

At least they took the time to allow the brilliant theologian Bill Mahr and the tremendously smart politician Sean Penn have their say. It must be great for more than half of the voters in California being called out by such an intelligent man. How many times did they show clips of him kissing a man?

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

peggyindc — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:59:59 GMT

Why is your personal opinion shows up on newsweek as if it were a fact? It's just your own opinion and it's not a fact. I'll tell you the opposite and I can tell you eight reasons why it's one of the best Oscars in a long time. Hugh Jackman is really talented and it's so refreshing to see a little change of the format. And the stage is great too. It celebrated both past and present talents in hollywood, which is what the award show should be.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

MargauxB — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:05:14 GMT

I actually thought the new format was great. The Oscars is about being appreciated by your peers. And peers they (the recipients) admired gave them accolades and congratulations. If I was a recipient, I would have liked the personal touch much more than the same old standard ho-hum fare we are served every year.

I thought Hugh Jackman was great, however I do agree that the collage music both live and recorded was a little schizo with the past and the present! It wasn't hard to figure out which was which, but it was not necessary and I do not think it added anything of value that made it worthwhile.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

luvalaff — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:08:47 GMT

This is the first time I've enjoyed the awards in a long time. The sets were gorgeous and I thought the presenters were just fine. My favorite part was the introduction of the best actor categories. I thought it was wonderful to really acknowledge the excellent work of each nominee by a former elegant winner. So what if Sophia Loren stumbled on a word. Give her a break. She's old and you will be too someday!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

iaintpeople — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:13:38 GMT

Wow! You've got to be some kind of lazy moron not to have loved the elegant, intelligent, artistic presentation this year. I LOVED the past winners paying tribute to the nominees -- there were tears in my eyes during the bollywood song sequences -- Now, the host was fairly cheesy (Sorry, Mr. Jackman, but ya needed some ironic sass...)

But this was the best Academy Awards i have ever seen -- adult, thoughtful, elegant... It's a new, intellectually, diverse decade, Ms. Setoodeh -- stop living in a L.A., sugar-coated, pop-reality, video-game world and actually try to learn something from the artists onstage. The director & producers should get emmys for this show!

Brav-Freakin-O!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

allilizm — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:16:30 GMT

I couldn't agree more. It felt so long and wasn't even the longest Oscars. I know the stars and presenters need time to get ready, but why can't they start it at 5:30pm EST? I know that measn that everyone involved in the show wakes up really, really early, but I'm assuming most of them don't have to work on Monday like most of the t.v. watchers who ABC purports to want to keep! That would make it a lot easier to take boring, over-produced shows like last night.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

GoddessDivine — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:18:21 GMT

This diatribe could only be written by someone in the throes of PMS! What a load of garbage.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Jbright9 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:20:04 GMT

My husband and I loved the Academy Awards last night. The gowns were beautiful and elegant, no one looked tacky and over exposed. We loved the format and Hugh Jackson. I enjoyed seeing all the stars and having them present each nominee. It seemed much more personal than in the past. I loved the big music numbers.

I was amazed over this article because I totally disagree with the reviewer.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Patches — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:22:26 GMT

I thought this was one the of the most boring Oscar shows ever! First let me name some of the things I did like: Hugh Jackman, Hugh Jackman and Hugh Jackman. I thought his opening number was really funny..........because it was supposed to be funny. That is one talented, sexy man. I did enjoy the moment Heath Ledger won for best supporting actor. It was kind of sad but happy at the same time. His family honored him well when they accepted his Oscar. What I didn't like??? Just about everything else. Of course they leave the big awards until the end of the show. And the show just did not flow. I knew we would have to listen to Sean Penn get on his political soapbox. Of course I thought Mickey Rourke should have won that award anyway. Honestly I could have skipped watching the whole thing which is probably what I will do next year.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

msfb — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:30:26 GMT

Newsweek is PMS central. WOW. Nothing makes the authors of this magazine happy. First you hate facebook and now the Oscars.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Appanage — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:32:51 GMT

Anyone tying this show to politics might want to consider closing their browser and turning up their daily Rush. Agree with just about everyone here except the author about the quality of the show as well: some hard working people made a strong effort to bring something new to the Oscars and were definitely successful in doing so.

Though it pulled down the pace of the show to an extent, I especially enjoyed the "5 past winners" approach to the four actor awards. Hugh Jackman worked his tail off while avoiding the constant dialogue overplay past hosts have favored.

All in all, enjoyable and not the painfully overglossed approach Hollywood has been known to take in the past.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Native New Yorker — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:36:39 GMT

How about the fact that most of the movies were just plain awful! And a foriegn film wins best pic....speaks volumes to Hollywood's hubris, but empty product and "stars". Finally, the presenters defied description other than JUST PLAIN BORING!!!! No creativity, no excitement, no enthusiasm. And please, someone tell Sean Penn to stop the idiotic political rhetoric -- it is NOT entertainment.

Bottom line, WHO CARES?

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

AS I SEE IT — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:39:33 GMT

GOLLYWOOD. Why do people idolize a company that gives an Oscar to an actor that overdoses on his drugs?

Why do they idolize homosexuality?

In the prior decades..CLASS and integrity were the norm.

Not anymore.

Sean Penn sucks.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

lancebergstrom — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:44:04 GMT

Dear Sarah,

Your eight points are valid about the Oscars 2009. I saw them too.

I also saw our shared human experience welcomed and celebrated by compassionate and kind people who happen to be cinematic artists.

I saw a movie from a culture we don't quite understand, yet whose heart-crushing poverty we empathized with, being presented positively to the world again and again. Remember camels and needles. ;-) This is a very important message at any time, and very important currently.

I saw a man who was a combination of genius and supreme pain, shown to people worldwide as an example of what is important in our lives. The rest of us, no matter how much pain we have to endure, have been given another chance to decide to live because of a simple message. We all have our own Matilda.

And finally, I saw a Mormon Gay man who wrote a screenplay based on hope, in a country that does not wish to hope for him and his happiness, become for a moment the happiest Mormon Gay person I have ever seen. We all walk with God, even when hundreds of millions of other human beings want to take that away as well.

So, I do agree that the Oscars can be seen as silly and downright ludicrous from a certain perspective. But not this particular year. 8 points of contention cannot drown the important messages of hope and love that this year's celebration of life portrayed cinematically has brought us all.

Thank you,

Lance Bergstrom

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

king of diamonds — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:44:25 GMT

I thought it great, regaardless of the critics take.

King of Diamonds

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

msh111 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:52:05 GMT

Here's an idea for your next article: 8 Reasons Why I'm Cynical, Jaded, and Shallow

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

brn2trvl — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:56:11 GMT

From a completely emotional point of view, I thought the show was great. I loved the actor and actress categories being announced by past winners. You could see the appreciative emotion in the faces of the nominated, even the men. I think Hugh was great! I thought the dance number was fun. Of course you either like Baz's work or you don't. There really isn't an in between.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

texastrailrunner — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:59:06 GMT

Wow, are you off base, and depressingly jaded! This was the best show ever, and my wife and I both have watched every show for decades, and most times painfully. Finally an award show that incorporates Hollywood glitz, glamour, entertainment and all in a very classy manner. I knew critics would hate this, but you’ll see, the average consumer, you know, the ones that pay to see movies for entertainment, watch shows, etc, will have loved this for a change. Hugh Jackman rocked the house, not even Billy Crystal could compare, and he was the best host the Oscars have had, until last night. Yes, there were a few weak moments, (Queen Latifa’s segment, terrible camera angles missing the remembered at times), but overall, well, you already know my sentiment.

Dump the previous boring formula for this new one. I hope to see this style and approach for years to come; it finally breathes life back into an otherwise boring awards show.

Having the 5 actors representing the nominee’s was by far a more personal touch, and I am really surprised at how quickly a few critics like yourself dismissed that with weak analogies. How jaded are you?

We’re really hoping to see the return of musicals, Hollywood glamour, and stars returning to that romantic age of Hollywood!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

shydrick — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 18:09:22 GMT

When did Newsweek start employing junior-high students? I understand why this year's Oscars' was not enough entertainment for you. No, the Oscars' will not live up to the powerful quality of American Idol (insert sarcastic smirk here). In fact, the 2 should NEVER even be mentioned in the same sentence. The Oscars' are meant to honor actors who have fully realized talent, and movies that impact the souls of people all over the world. As someone in my 30's, the five presenters were not just "old wrinkled people" that I might have seen before... they were the Brad and Angelina of the 1980's. It was touching to see them personally address the newcomers as nominees. GROW UP and open your mind to things other than Secrest's Top 40!!!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

PHXPHD — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 18:09:44 GMT

I don't know where your head was last night Ramin, but it sure was in a very dark and damp place! Hugh Jackman did a wonderful and classy job with the Oscars,,, it was done beautifully with enormous talent, which you show none of.. so go sweep a park somewhere, it is obvious your talents tend to that rather than anything to do with writing a decent column... You sir, are an unclassy, unappreciative and an idiot.... they were the best Oscars in years... with CLASS, which is more than I can say for your opinionns....

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

VMCooper — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 18:12:06 GMT

No doubt! Newsweek again proves itself to be completely out of touch with the public. This article should have appeared in The Onion.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

50isthenew30 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 18:12:54 GMT

Ms. Ball, you and many others here have completely missed the mark... The Oscars, similar to any of the sports halls of fame shows, are supposed to recognize those who take the 'sport' (in this case, acting) to the next level. Each of the men and women who introduced the nominees are people who in their time could guarantee great performances, and thus butts in seats at the movie theatres. I'm only shocked that Anne Hathaway didn't win her award, as she is one of the few actors in 'your' generation who seems to respect the craft and works to perfect her talent. I have to say, I would expect more from Newsweek - but Ms. Ball, perhaps they have a place for you over at Seventeen???

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

WildPortuguesa — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 18:13:14 GMT

You seem to be the only person out there expressing a negative opinion! The show was the best in years, if not ever! Keep the format!! Keep the host!! Everyone I've talked to loved it!!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

king of diamonds — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 18:16:22 GMT

Second thought.

Just enjoy--why always psychoanalyze?

King of Diamonds

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

raymy65 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 18:24:13 GMT

You ask in your openning:

Was it just me, or were the Oscars like the longest episode of "American Idol" ever?

It was you.

I sat with a room full of people who really enjoyed the show. It was fresh and rejuvinated. The outcome is based heavily on what one brings to watching it! They tried, AND anything was better than having a repeat of last years blood bath of nominees and winners! Why is that it has become human nature to point out what is crappy and wrong with the world? Slumdog Millionaire winner stated one can choose love or one can choose hate, he chose love and he was on center stage.

Ask yourself in writing that article, what did you choose and where will you end up????

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

jaycee31231 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 18:24:42 GMT

We, the public, would probably look forward to the Oscars if we didn't see the actors on TV everyday on programs such as Entertainment Tonight and Access Holywood. The stars of years past were special because we only saw them on the screen or in magazines. We didn't know all of the sordid details of their lives either. I hate the red carpet drill they all go through too. They all look stupid - pose, pose, walk, pose some more.

I watched little parts last night only to see Hugh Jackman, who is a VERY talented man. I changed channels when he wasn't on.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

kingbee2 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 18:27:44 GMT

THE 81ST OSCARS BLEW CHUNKS! THIS WAS HANDS-DOWN THE MOST AWFUL, BORING, SELF-INDULGENT, AND DISJOINTED ACADEMY AWARDS CEREMONY IN THE LAST 45 YEARS! THE GREAT UNWASHED MASSES ARE OFTEN EASILY AMUSED BY ANYTHING THEY SEE ON TV, AS EVIDENCED BY MANY OF THE HERD RESPONSES SEEN HERE. THE PRODUCERS COULD ONLY HAVE MADE THIS OSCAR NIGHT WORSE BY HAVING JOAQUIN PHOENIX (CHANNELING HIS RECENT AND SHOCKING LATE NIGHT WITH DAVID LETTERMAN PEFORMANCE) AS THE EMCEE. BEST SONG CATEGORY WAS A JOKE--GOLDEN GLOBES GOT IT RIGHT WITH BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN! COMPARE HIS SONG FROM "THE WRESTLER" TO THAT CRAP FROM "SLUMDOG"--ARE YOU FRIGGIN KIDDING?! AND MICKEY ROURKE WAS LIKEWISE RIPPED OFF--THIS WAS A LOAD!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

texastrailrunner — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 18:40:31 GMT

The guy/gal that wrote the above, kingbee2 or whatever their self-inflated name, has to be the article writer’s significant other or mother. And the weak attempt at being an effete snob commenting on the unwashed masses, really! Roflmao.

Best show ever!

Signed, one of the unclean dirt mongers numbed by yours and the article authors’ weak rhetoric.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

emmathecat — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 18:54:43 GMT

I couldn't diagree more. The show was extremely entertaining - Jackman was the best host the Oscars have had in years, and the past winners presenting the acting nominations provided a nice tribute to each of the nominees, not just the winner. If you hate the show so much, why not stop watching and let the rest of us enjoy what was a great evening?

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

50isthenew30 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 19:06:40 GMT

Ummm, Ms. Ball, one more thing... you must be so proud to have as one of your adoring fans the guy who must be cool - he types in all caps! He talks about the great unwashed masses while using such sophisticated terms as 'blew chunks' and 'this was a load'. I'm sure you two could sit and watch Pinapple Express and have a great time discussing culture... and stuff.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Aditya Mookerjee — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 19:16:07 GMT

I could not watch the Oscars this year, because I did not know whether it was being broadcast live in India. I must say, that the Oscars and the Grammy's are among my favourite award nights.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

linnyrl — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 19:17:18 GMT

On every level you are wrong and ill-informed. The program was visually spectacular, the interludes of entertainment between the numerous awards were both enjoyable and relevant to that portion of the show. The transitions from one presenter to the next were handled smoothly and with a minimum of wasted time. And the show was entertaining, which is not easy given the baic structure that has to be followed. It's a pity that you are too young and too self-impressed to understand that there was a time when people were actually both talented and charming, and didn't have to have their every word and movement scripted. I notice that nowhere in your rant was any suggestion to improve the show. It's understandable; you have none. Get wise readers. These so-called critics know much less than you do about what is entertaining to you. Pay them no mind and hopefully they will disappear, never to heard from again.

lrl555

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

sketchartist — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 19:17:23 GMT

The MOST boring thing about the Oscars is the annual avalanche of "I was so bored" reviews by pretentious know-nothings like Ms. Ball.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

bobcat4424 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 19:20:45 GMT

I was embarrassed for the people involved.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

jaycro — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 19:30:47 GMT

Don't know what the author of this article was watching (or smoking for that matter) but I was thoroughly entertained allowing for the fact that it is, after all, an awards show.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

youdontneed2knowthat — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 19:34:50 GMT

"Beyonce did look a little thick in the legs, but I love how people criticize that. About half of our country is obese - OBESE - and we have the audacity to mock Beyonce and her fit figure? Really? I bet most of you that are being critical are enormous. Have another chip and keep laughing at how "fat" Beyonce is. She's laughing herself all the way to the bank, and then laughing some more at home in bed with her handsome husband." - by Mishy23 from previous comment.

Now, Mishy23 had me going there all the way up to when she mentioned Beyonce had a handsome husband.

*awkward pause*

I almost choked on my coke. I stopped reading all other comments and immediately registered to this site JUST to say this: unless you and I looking at the difference dudes, Beyonce do NOT have a handsome husband.

ok, thanks.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

glamour&poise1230 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 19:35:23 GMT

Ms. Ball,

While I enjoyed reading your entertaining diatribe on last night's Academy Awards, I couldn't disagree more with your opinions.

I see absolutely no connection between American Idol and last night's Academy Awards. Hate to break it to you, but yes, it was just you who saw the comparison. Hugh Jackman's evident talent and new twist on the Oscars was a refreshing change, and are in no one comparable to the obnoxious, ungraceful hosts of American Idol.

Your blatant immaturity is indeed a sad commentary, for you obviously failed to recognize and respect the "Old Hollywood" glamour that was presented at the 81st Academy Awards. Your disrespect is quite frankly, shocking, as is your skewed perception of last night's show. The "panel" of "ghosts of Christmas past" that you speak of, are, in actuality, some of the world's greatest and most treasured actors and actresses. Clearly, you lack the emotional and artistic depth to recognize this fact; also, you obviously haven't seen any movies made prior to the year 2000.

Next time you completely degrade an award show that encapsulates artistic achievement and excellence, consider the fact that you are narrow-mindedly contributing to the ignorance and immaturity that far too often shapes our youth's persepctive.

And no, I am not sixty years old, as you might have surmised. I am twenty-two.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

jimtranr — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 19:38:03 GMT

Wrong. It's the review that bombed. Apart from a couple of technical glitches and maybe an awkward presenter or two, it was one of the better Academy Award shows I've seen in a while. It seemed to move briskly, and the individual recognition accorded the acting nominees put the emphasis where I've long thought it ought to be--on the nominees, not just the winners.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

glamour&poise1230 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 19:39:19 GMT

Ms. Ball,

While I enjoyed reading your entertaining diatribe on last night's Academy Awards, I couldn't disagree more with your opinions.

And no, I am not sixty years old, as you might have surmised. I am twenty-two.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

senecawa655485 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 19:54:07 GMT

Uhhh ... WHO are you, again?

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Alan Posner — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:05:26 GMT

Dear Ms. Ball,

I am not of the MTV generation (too old), but I can agree with you - the show was not good (I am trying to be nice). H. Jackman was OK but...his performance with Beyonce left a lot to be desired. I thought that he was dancing better than she was. Yes she is beautiful and has a great voice but it is a good thing that show is not Dancing with the Stars. The stench from the best song medley will be around for quite a long time. Why did they keep flashing to people in the audience without identifying who they were (except for the stars). They tried new graphics but I believe that they were too long.

Yes they tried some new things - kudos for the attempt but they should have learned by now that simplicity is really elegant.

Most of the presenters were good but when 5 came out for the acting awards they really did not have to do a recap of the nominees history.

Yours in review,

Alan Posner

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

XenaPeel — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:10:00 GMT

"Throughout the telecast, my BlackBerry buzzed with messages from friends, all in their 20s, about how un-hip and un-young and unwatchable the Oscars felt."

This proves to me how young people only care for just themselves and are so digustingly self-asorbed they are. It also showed how illiterate thay are about films and the industry. They need to take film classes to learn more about films. Films are artisitic and intelligent, movies are what you see at a blue light sale and brain dead.

The Oscars are to be catered to all ages, not just to young people. GROW-UP and act like adults that you are suppose to be. The best part of the Oscars was seeing Sophia Loren (the epitome of beauty), Sir Anthony Hopkins, and Sir Ben Kingsly. They are actors, not movie stars.

I liked the new way of presenting the awards and the show moved faster and was seamless. Not so many production number. It rocked.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

jaycee31231 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:18:48 GMT

For Kingbee2 in all capital letters. That wasn't Joaquin Phoenix doing any channeling it was Ben Stiller doing a very good job of making fun of Joaquin.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

jaycee31231 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:18:53 GMT

For Kingbee2 in all capital letters. That wasn't Joaquin Phoenix doing any channeling it was Ben Stiller doing a very good job of making fun of Joaquin.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Sarah Ball — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:20:13 GMT

hey hey, commenters! a heads-up to a few of you: while Pop Vox is curated by me, and while i am a chief contributor, a lot of other Newsweekers write for it. the post in question is actually the opinion of one of our top critics, Ramin Setoodeh. so while i might, in fact, be a pretentious know-nothing, i'm not the pretentious know-nothing whose "8 Points" you just read. :)

while we're on the subject of feedback, here are some notable snippets from related e-mails that i've received:

"I couldn't disagree more. It was intimate, stylish and I and everyone I know thought it was the best one in years. If you want a music video turn on BET." -- Janet Harrison

"Ryan Seacrest came across like [an] intern, the Jennifer-Aniston-pan to Pitts was nauseatingly predictable. It was ABC's Disneyfication of this annual event. Like ruining a classic meal by putting ABC network ketchup all over it. No taste. No finesse." -- Kimberly Cambra

"Why mix clips of other movies in with the scenes from the nominated ones? Crazy and illogical." -- Rebecca Segal

"I hope to see this style and approach for years to come; it finally breathes life back into an otherwise boring awards show." -- Don H. Johnson

overall, a mixed bag.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

youdontneed2knowthat — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:20:22 GMT

The only misguided injustice I saw last night was Sean Penn gloating over the win Mickey Rouke clearly should of won.

I'm sorry, but when I see Sean Penn, all I could think of is "excellenttt!" from his geeky days as the Bill & Ted Excellent Adventure dude. I mean he is a good actor, but I have seen Sean Penn's story so many times - with the Charlize Theron's Monster, and the Denzel Washington's Training Day - all great actors playing roles outside their of who they really are blah blah.

Mickey Rouke was about the Wrestler. He was magnificant! After that movie I truly became a Mickey Rouke fan. His acting chomps in that movie epitomized what Slumdog Millionaire was all about: The underdog should come out on top. I mean, why should the Academy punish Mickey Rouke just because Lisa Rinna's plastic surgery made her look like his identical twin? (Yea, that was a cheap shot, wasn't it?) I mean c'mon!! Mickey Rouke clearly was the winner in that category.

And that is the only one reason I believe the Oscar bombed last night.

After last night, if I were an actor, I would throw it all away, grow a shaggly beard and become a hip hop artist too!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

pgafilms — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:21:57 GMT

Ms. Ball,

The Oscars this year were produced by Laurence Mark and directed by the venerable filmmaker, Bill Condon. These two gentlemen brought us great broadway-esque movies like Dreamgirls, and Condon directed the Oscar winner, Chicago. If you were to do your homework and go back and view these two movies, I think you might reconsider your "opinion" that the show was trying to be American Idol. The show, in my opinion, was everything I thought it would be when I leanred these men would be andling the show's content. I felt the show was a classic example of how Bill Condon can bring the magic of movies and music together into a real show number that entertains people without the use of over the top comedians deriding the audience with pop culture cut downs. Hugh Jackman was a class act, and the night felt like a throwback to old Hollywood in the best sense of the word. I felt last night's show was entertaining, elegant, and more intimate. The type of show I wish I could have had a front row seat. I look back at past shows that included hosts like David Letterman, Chris Rock, and Jon Stewart. Now those were what I would call "odd" shows that included a bundle of moments that made people cringe and shake their heads -- remember David Letterman making fun of Oprah's name to a silent audience, and Chris Rock cutting down every celebrity with ghastly insults? I don't mind Broadway show tunes. I felt good about last night's show, and I know I'm not alone. So stop being so melodramatic about your opinion that last night's show was the "weirdest" of them all. Do your homework next time.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

plsponge — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:23:54 GMT

Why don't you just admit you had to write a stupid headline to get anyone to read your article? Just report the news and leave your opinion out of it. Who really cares anyway?

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

pgafilms — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:25:57 GMT

Ms. Ball,

The Oscars this year were produced by Laurence Mark and directed by the venerable filmmaker, Bill Condon. These two gentlemen brought us great broadway-esque movies like Dreamgirls, and Condon directed the Oscar winner, Chicago. If you were to do your homework and go back and view these two movies, I think you might reconsider your "opinion" that the show was trying to be American Idol. The show, in my opinion, was everything I thought it would be when I leanred these men would be handling the show's content. I felt the show was a classic example of how Bill Condon can bring the magic of movies and music together into a real show number that entertains people without the use of over the top comedians deriding the audience with pop culture cut downs. Hugh Jackman was a class act, and the night felt like a throwback to old Hollywood in the best sense of the word. I felt last night's show was entertaining, elegant, and more intimate. The type of show I wish I could have had a front row seat. I look back at past shows that included hosts like David Letterman, Chris Rock, and Jon Stewart. Now those were what I would call "odd" shows that included a bundle of moments that made people cringe and shake their heads -- remember David Letterman making fun of Oprah's name to a silent audience, and Chris Rock cutting down every celebrity with ghastly insults? I don't mind Broadway show tunes. I felt good about last night's show, and I know I'm not alone. So stop being so melodramatic about your opinion that last night's show was the "weirdest" of them all. Do your homework next time.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

violetsparks — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:33:11 GMT

I couldn't disagree with you more Ms. Ball. This was absolutely the most entertaining Oscar event in years. I salute the Academy for actually introducing a new format regardless of self-styled critics' condescending opinions. Honoring all nominees as opposed to only the winner allowed for each of them to have a moment. Having past winners offer the nominees a tribute reminded us of the amazing films they were a part of. Showing a montage of past winning films was like a walk down memory lane. The musical numbers were creative, fresh and not at all Idol-like, as you suggest. I haven't watched this event in it's entirety for years, but I found myself barely hitting the 30-second skip on my Tivo. The actors seemed to be enjoying themselves for once as well, as opposed to the boring hum-drum teleprompter reading. In regards to you missing each movie clip, perhaps if you had watched the movies previously, they would be fresh in your memory so you could hope for your choice without basing the decision on a 15 second clip. Is this how you normally base your decisions?

It's unfortunate that trying something new is automatically crushed by naysayers such as yourself. Yes there were a few technical glitches, but to rip apart the event based on a few missed cues is shallow and childish. Everyone makes mistakes, perhaps like when you hit the submit button on this article.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

mp9916 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:40:18 GMT

The only part of your article I agree with is that Rogen and Franco should co-host next year.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

MaryCoombs — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:40:50 GMT

Amen!! Time for a quick business lesson folks, and why they blew it. The Oscars are there to drive additional ticket sales and pump DVD sales when the movies that won get showered with attention and fanfare. That is their #1 job or the ceremony would be closed to the public and left for the industry alone to share privately.

We know that most of these movies were not seen. So what does the telecast do? Kill off the clips. How could we not have seen a really good Heath Ledger clip just before his name was announced?? (And that was the one movie most people did see.) How could we not have seen something from movies like Frozen River that apparently had good performances and yet will go out of our minds yet again without a sample to make us take notice?

I applaud trying to come up with a faster pace or to make the telecast more exciting. The five previous winners concept was innovative, but not at the expense of the movies and the stars that should have been showcased far more than in some rambly speech they probably didn't hear anyway because of nerves. Loved the closer stage, and the grouping of awards and on and on, but I sure wish I could have sampled some of the those performances and really learned what I was missing.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

lmasure — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:41:08 GMT

I am blown away by so many people who spent last night watching this stupid show. Not only that, but those of you who had friggin "Oscar Parties"!! Don't you have anything better to do? No wonder most people can't put a sentence together - forget reading, we must watch a tv show with all those people you wish you were. Sad, sad, sad. Get a life.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

PhotoStory — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:51:02 GMT

Redux:

Cynical, negative, overtly judgmental and ridiculously superficial...Sarah Ball; you're the type of person with a voice that makes this country look bad. Shame on Newsweek for employing you.

P.S. Southern sorority girls never grow up..........they keep whining.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

lmatth2 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:55:48 GMT

Regarding your reason number 8, possibly if you and your friends weren't constantly texting each

other, you may have caught the insight behind the classic film clips mixed in with the best film nominees. The film clips shown were to remind you twenty-somethings that before there was Seth

Rogen, there were films of depth that influenced even today's directors. By the way, your celebrity

interviews are pretty sad. Maybe you could come up with some questions that they haven't already

asked these stars on "The View"?

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

5bmarts — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 21:05:31 GMT

You're an idiot...and Newsweek just lost a long time subscriber.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

MJM4356 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 21:14:09 GMT

Of course, it is self-fulfilling that the people stupid enough to lash out over a post saying the Oscars were boring are not smart enough to read the byline. I don't agree with every point, but most of them were dead on (esp. #1 and #5).

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

50isthenew30 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 21:16:41 GMT

[hey hey, commenters! a heads-up to a few of you: while Pop Vox is curated by me, and while i am a chief contributor, a lot of other Newsweekers write for it. the post in question is actually the opinion of one of our top critics, Ramin Setoodeh. so while i might, in fact, be a pretentious know-nothing, i'm not the pretentious know-nothing whose "8 Points" you just read. :) ]

Ms. Ball, I apologize for taking a few shots at you in the process of disagreeing with the article authored by R. Setoodeh... obviously we were all drawn to your picture and not to the name under the title.

Bottom line - I enjoyed the Oscars (and clicked back over to the NASCAR race during commercials).

Oh, and I kinda like your hair... :-) (see 11:18 AM post)

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

kshortSD — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 21:18:47 GMT

Well, I thought the Oscar's were great this year. They were much more relaxed and intimate, and it didn't seem to drag on forever to me. Many of the presenters actually had funny lines to read, for once. Hugh Jackman was funny and seemed completely at ease in front of such a large audience. I really enjoyed hearing past winners give heartfelt introductions to the nominees instead of seeing a random 10 second clip from the movie. Imagine how Anne Hathoway must have felt to hear Shirley MaClaine complement her performance like that! I even liked all the cheesy musical numbers. I hope they follow a similar format next year!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

tombones99@earthlink.net — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 21:23:35 GMT

The Oscars are irrelevant, overbaked, and waaaay tooooo looooong. The musical #'s stunk and the show was bascially made by industry people for the industry and didn't bother to consider that there were millions of people sitting at home saying "WTF???"

It was terrible. If you think anything different you are in denial.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

baronwolf — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 21:26:19 GMT

Ms Ball,

Have you even watched the oscars in previous years? Despite some miscalculations ( the montages WERE confusing and the lack of clips was regretable), this years show breezed by at a healthy clip and was funny, clever and entertaining, more so than for the past several years. I'm sorry that you think speaking in Spanish renders a conversation surreal or that an Indian influence in Indian themed songs is somehow inappropriate. It's odd that you claim to be speaking for the younger viewers while your attitudes toward global cultures is even more archaic than my grandmother. Hugh did an excellent job and it was nice to see that Wolverine could sing and dance (very well, I might add) As far as the choice of nominees, they were a bit weak and misguided( and the Springsteen omission was criminal). The only truly regretable thing about last nights oscars was that with the 'cut back' fashions, it looked like a lot of old wedding gowns and bridesmaid dresses were being recycled.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

underdog — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 21:45:09 GMT

Reasons the show bombed:

Reason # 1) Ouside of the entertainment industry no really gives a damn about Hollywoods self promotion.

No other reasons are necessary.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

CedarNetwork.com — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 21:54:14 GMT

People speak Spanish - where have you been? The fact that you cut down two different cultures in one article shows that you are MORE out of touch with America than the Oscars are with viewers.

America is a diverse place - get with the program!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

PhotoStory — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 22:07:06 GMT

Okay, so who is "Ramin Setoodeh ?"

Your credentials? Is this entirely your work? Answer the critics.

Speak!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

srakesh — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 22:09:34 GMT

Sorry Ms Ball. It was you, not the Oscars. The show was awesome. Thanks to all those who helped put up such an evening.

Rakesh

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

mapleleaf55 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 22:34:17 GMT

I liked the Oscars this year. They seemed to fly-by to me. I liked the five presenters' format and Hugh Jackman. My two daughters liked them also. I don't agree with the author's viewpoint at all. I thought it was the best show in a long time,

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

honeywest — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 22:45:56 GMT

Trying to appeal to the Rogen and Franco crowd is exactly what was wrong with the Oscars. Obviously Ms.Ball can't even understand why Sophia Loren was important. Movies shouldn't be reduced to the ADD of 20 somethings. I thought it was the best show in a long time as well and this reviewer seemed hopelessly naive. To continually compare it to IDOL shows her lack of film knowledge or even Oscar history. Get someone else next year to review, please.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

jamiewhitaker — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 22:55:04 GMT

I can't help that some people have attention deficit disorder or whatever .... go play a video game. The Oscars were really well done this year. The stage setting was very nice, especially the sets created for the various not so sexy awards. The former winners in the acting categories saying something nice about each nominee was very nice and seemed very sincere. The performances here and there were also very creative, espcially Hugh's and Beyonce's number. An excellent show ... much better than past years. Did I lose you attentiion deficit disorder folks with all my words and stuff? Like I said ... go play a video game or something.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

ThePeoriaKid — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 23:09:25 GMT

Sarah Ball, your comments remind me of the "Rivers Sisters". Maybe you should stand outside high schools and give critique to high school girls. They might get a buzz out of your snappy repartee. Sounds to me like you had your axe sharpened at K-Mart.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Rebecca88 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 23:11:45 GMT

The Oscars were great--better than the last 10 years! What makes you, Ramin Setoodeh , the judge of anything. You weren't even around when they had the glamour & star power duing the days of both Bob Hope & Johnny Carson.

This Oscar show had CLASS. Obviously, Ramin Setoodeh, you don't have it!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

smadge — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 23:28:37 GMT

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Meg9183 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 23:28:52 GMT

Do any of you people know how to read? Sarah Ball didn't even write this article, geniuses. It clearly says it was written by Ramin Setoodeh, so stop picking on this Ball woman. No one wonder people outside our country think we're morons.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Stella79 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 23:36:08 GMT

I totally agree with you Ramin! This is by far the strangest Academy Awards ceremony I've seen. I LOVE the Oscars, but this show was a real disappointment.

Hugh Jackman was a real dud and the new format really sucked! What's up with the teeny claustrophobic stage. It was completely missing the grandness of former years.

The acting presentations put me to sleep. When they finally announced the award, I was jolted back awake, but not sure what was happening.

The funniest moments were with Tina Fey and Steve Martin - why couldn't they host?!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

pps1 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 23:45:59 GMT

i initially thought the oscars were wanting . . . and im a hugh jackman fan, still giddy over his tony emceeing. i was really looking forward to the show. ive played it back 3 times now and like it better--there was almost too much there to catch in one sitting. the opening number grows on you--ann hathway's "surprise" involvement was a highlight--and i liked the 5 winners lauding the nominees as a change. some of the tributes were just excellent--whoopie's, maclaine's--while some were tortured, and it did wear thin the 4th time. the second production number doesn't totally work--there's times where beyonce and jackman and the "high school musical" stars just seemed to stop with nothing to do. but i laud the creators for bravely trying a new take. the use of sceenplay scripts as a vehicle was interesting and made you appreciate the move-making process even more. as always, i got teary eyed on several occasions with the beauty and writing of the whole thing. thank you, academy!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

pps1 — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 23:52:28 GMT

in the "in memoriam" section, you couldn't read the profession--the tv screens were too far away, and where was heath ledger mentioned??? (to make the show relevant, it should include deaths up to the date of the ceremony.) singing "i'll be seeing u" live was corny, althought the queen's introductory remarks were good. i missed movie clips of the nominees, and some more awards should have been given out by biel at the other party to make room and keep up the interest.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

mapleleaf55 — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:02:20 GMT

Heath Ledger was actually "in memoriam" at last year's Oscar show presentation. I really enjoyed this year's show personally, and even liked the smaller stage.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

D. W. Griffin — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:09:53 GMT

You had it right, lady, in the first sentence. It was you; it was not Jackman, not the Oscar tradition of irrisistible self-indulgence.

And we musn't forget that it's you that's small; the picture is still big.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

D. W. Griffin — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:09:53 GMT

You had it right, lady, in the first sentence. It was you; it was not Jackman, not the Oscar tradition of irrisistible self-indulgence.

And we musn't forget that it's you that's small; the picture is still big.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

austinhassett — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 01:00:41 GMT

Wow, did we watch the same Oscar telecast?! This year's ceremony had an elegant set, a snappy & talented host & some nice innovations. I especially liked the 5-way presentation of the acting honors, which felt more poignant and less canned than the usual inane patter we usually see. I hope Hugh Jackman comes back next year.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

afrank1 — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 01:18:42 GMT

Hun! What were you watching? Jackman was great and so was the show. By the way, all of Bruce's songs sound the same and I've been sick of him for 15 years!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Caroles — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 01:33:37 GMT

I loved the show! Thought it was great! Jackman was fabulous and I loved the 5 previous winners honoring each of the nominees!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Papa Boulder — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 01:39:58 GMT

Worst Oscar show ever!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

katydid1952 — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 01:51:53 GMT

Was it me, or were the Oscars so long because there were 5 mniutes of ads for every 3 minutes of show??? Loved it, though, especially Hugh and Anne Hathaway. Who knew she could belt out a number like that! Kate Winslet was the best recipient.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

bella2679 — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 03:09:35 GMT

Good for you Ramin Setoodeh that you have this job - you must be doing something right because your opinion on this years awards is definitely not one of them. I try to watch them every year and get so bored I can barely get through 40 minutes? and that's pushing it - and then tune back in towards the end to see the final winnings. This year's were surprisingly good! And as far as "Slum Dog Millionaire" being part of the Academy's fault for being so predictable - ummmmmmm....have you seen the movie? They won the Golden Globes and the next morning all the t.v. shows wanted to focus on was dance at the end of the movie?!! So it is understandable why the Oscars had an "intermission" with Bollywood. And yes, bashing Penelope's Spanish ending ( in which all she did was share the moment with the people of Spain and dedicate her award to them and all actors of Spain) is definitely way to go.

Also using previous award winners showed a true respect to the nominees as I'm sure the feeling was reciprocated with the feeling of honor. Since you mentioned many of us might not have seen all these movies - yes - you're absolutely right - the 20 second clip would definitely give us a better perspective on how good their performances were. WOW - keep up the good work!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

kingbee2 — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 03:14:03 GMT

To : jaycee31231 - hey, genius - read what I wrote: THE PRODUCERS COULD ONLY HAVE MADE THIS OSCAR NIGHT WORSE BY HAVING JOAQUIN PHOENIX (CHANNELING HIS RECENT AND SHOCKING LATE NIGHT WITH DAVID LETTERMAN PEFORMANCE) AS THE EMCEE. Get it? The only way the 81st Academy Awards could have been worse would have been to make Joaquin Phoenix the emcee instead of the boring Hugh Jackman. Understand now?

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

1Blackcitizen! — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 03:33:44 GMT

This is news??? The Oscars bomb EVERY year.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

darkknight55 — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 05:20:35 GMT

Nothing would make me happier than to discard this overrated piece of trash programming altogether. It's almost (keyword almost) as big of a time waster than the reality shows and the sanctomonious celebrities that use this opportunity to voice their political ideals (are you listening Penn?) make me sick. It wouldn't bother me so much if the awards went to the right films and people behind the films but the focus is usually on the wrong movies in the best picture category and the same in the acting categories as well. Then there's that whole giving awards to people who make millions of dollars doing what I did as a 8 year old- pretend.

The Academy Awards may have been something decades ago, but they are well past their prime in today's entertainment world.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

prr643 — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 05:27:48 GMT

The Oscars have been spiraling towards oblivion for years. Unless something changes no one is going to watch in a few years. Is it just me, or are they now going out of their way to nominate movies no one goes to see? Here are my thoughts on the way to save the Oscars. No one cares, but what the hell.

1. FIrst and foremost, nominate movies people actually go to see!

2. Broaden the nominees. Why is it the same few movies get nominated for all the "hot" categories. The films up for best picture don't need to be nominated for everything! It is just starting to border on stupid! No, change that, it is stupid. Slum Dog Millionaire should not have been nominated for half the categories it was. It winning best song when there were no musicals even nominated was just plain ludicrous. Stuff like that makes me wonder what some of the people at the academy are smoking.

3. Eliminate the idotic categories from the prime time broadcast! No one cares about best foreign film or best short subject documentary, or even short animated feature. Sure, they have merit, and deserve recognition, but no once gives a *** about them in heart of Prime Time! It again goes to nominating movies that people have actually seen!

4. Add categories people care about. Here is an idea, how about a Best Comedy Oscar, or best comedic performance, or best voice acting for animated films. Again, broaden the nominees, and films, increase your audience.

5. Get BIlly Crystal back! Or find a host of the same caliber. I used to watch just to watch BIlly, he was great in that role. No one has hit the ball out of the park like he did. You need a real performer like that to carry the show, and well the choice of Hugh Jackman was just bizarre.

6. Stop the predictability. Here is an idea, give awards to more then a few anointed movies. It was obvious pretty early what movie was going to win Best Picture. And everyone knew that Heath Leadger. was going to win. I'm sorry, no disrespect intended, but he won because he died, it is that simple. Sure, he was very good, but come on, a superhero movie winning a top tier Oscar? Not if the nominee is still breathing.

Anyway, they won't do any of these things, so I for one think in a few years the Oscars won't even be carried in prime time anymore, cause no one will watch.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Librarian Legacy — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 05:51:45 GMT

How sad, you trying to be so cynical and amusing, but meanwhile missing the great joy of this evening, the total charm and success of Hugh Jackman, the obvious appreciation of most people who are writing on the internet that it is the one of the best Oscar shows ever. Can you really be that cold to the warm feeling it gave everyone?

Bringing back five of each of the acting awards in past history of the movies was a brilliant stroke. Their personal compliments directed to the nominees in the audience were touching and well received by the actors who appreciated a personal touch before the winner was announced.

The musical numbers were sparkling like watching a Broadway show. Compared to the old Oscar telecasts where a singer stood by a piano or alone in a spotlight, this had life to it, so much fun and heart-lifting production.

The only thud about this Oscar show is your inability to appreciate it as a treasure. Too bad.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

ten10den — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 05:54:20 GMT

"my BlackBerry buzzed with messages from friends, all in their 20s, about how un-hip and un-young and unwatchable the Oscars felt."

Uh...did you have to be 20 something to notice how "un-hip" and "un-young" and unwatchable the oscars felt????

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Snowedin — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 07:53:15 GMT

Newsweek, can you please hire a reviewer that has more to offer than her experience with peanut butter and jelly and perhaps a round or two on her skateboard?

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

MIKI8483 — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 08:34:36 GMT

Who gives a crap about the oscars?!?!? What about the people who are making a difference in this world? Healthcare works, police, teachers, volunteers. Noooo, let's give recognition to people who already get enough press. Award shows are lame.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

rockmebritney — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 09:00:46 GMT

I thought this was a very well written article. I think one of the major faux paux's about the academy awards, within the last several years, is that nobody is really interested in watching people they formally idolized (however, with these harder economic times, now spite due to jealousy) give each other awards for working on a project that they made millions to do that doesn't require any schooling or brains. I believe our views on celebrity lifestyles have gone down dramatically since the beginning of the decade. I personally get choked up just watching someone walk to the podium in a dress that cost more than my yearly salary. It's no longer "fun" but instead makes us feel really bad about ourselves. Nobody wants to be reminded that we can't afford those diamond earrings. We no longer want to live vicariously through people that we've come to respect less and less. I don't even have suggestions on how to make the awards show more interesting... I think it's pretty much a lost cause.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Thought Police — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 09:57:54 GMT

I for one thought it was the best one in years. At least it wasn't all hype and bling-bling. Of course I have been watching them a little longer then most. 60 years.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

darkknight55 — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 12:18:43 GMT

Thought Police, if you really have been watching the Oscars for 60 years then you must have gotten Alzheimers in that time. Have you forgotten the best of the Academy Awards were when Bob Hope used to do them and when Hollywood still had some class in its celebrities?

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

MissS — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 13:21:24 GMT

Thought Police - it wasn't all hype and bling bling? Are you kidding me? Were you watching the same Oscars I was? I don't think a single dress anyone wore cost under $5,000 and I'm sure that everyone was wearing at least $50,000 in jewelry, although I haven't gotten the most recent US Weekly to see their summary of it. Penelope Cruz wore a dress that was 60 years old and still in perfect condition and did you see the earrings Kate Winslet wore??? Maybe you were watching the old people's version, because that's pretty bling bling to me.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

MissS — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 13:24:05 GMT

Thought Police - one last thought...if it wasn't all hype, how do you explain the Academy kissing the perfectly sculpted rear end of Brad Pitt and the culturally and politically correct Mumbai bottoms all night??? Benjamin Button wins for best effects (I forget the true name of the category) against Iron Man and Dark Night? CGI on one guy outweighs an entire pair of movies based mainly on CGI content? Please.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

DavidCU — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:04:43 GMT

Ramin Setoodeh:

"And at some point in the evening, Jackman appeared with Beyonce, Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens to cover a strange assortment of Broadway tunes." They weren't Broadway tunes, they were bits from movie musicals. Ever seen one? Because, you know, the Oscars are about movies.

"And they weren't just any presenters, but old winners in each category, some of whom seemingly haven't been seen in public for decades." Which of those five actresses haven't you seen in the last 20 years? Do you watch movies?

"Anybody who tuned in to the Oscars in the middle of the Best Song numbers might have thought they were watching the Bollywood channel by mistake." And that's the telecast producer's fault? They had to work with the songs nominated, don't fault them for the voters' selections.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

marylynne — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:08:45 GMT

political correctness has sapped every bit of spontaneity out of the awards. That's why nobody watches. There is about as much chance of a streaker running across the stage behind David Niven as there is Sean Penn using the term "sons o guns". Nohe dint...

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Independent CO — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:14:53 GMT

My husband and I enjoyed watching the Oscars this year, and I'm happy Sean Penn won. He's a super actor.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

b.deering — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:34:56 GMT

I for one enjoyed it. Trying something fifferent was good, Hugh Jackmon did a good job. I also like the idea of having the winners from previous years say something personnal to each of the people in the category. You could tell by the looks on their faces that they also enjoyed it. Not everything is perfect. But they tried something new. If it worked ok if it didn't , oh well. People look forward to this program every year, and most of the time it turns out boreing. You try to stay awake to see if you're favorite won, but if you don't make it you catch it on the news the next day.

BobiD.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

bella2679 — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 15:23:51 GMT

MissS - maybe u should relax on Thought Police - the Academy Awards since they first started have always been about hype!!!! ( a.k..a "Hollywood Glamour!!!). The MEDIA however HYPES up the focus on the bling, dress price, and " who are you wearing tonight?" SO much more (and acting more like groupies instead of doing their jobs - Ryan Seacrest and co-host Giuliana who cares what her last name is ). I on the other hand have not been watching them for 60 years (I am 29). But to have to even mention "Maybe you were watching the old people's version"????!!! That's just wrong!!! Where is the respect for your elders? Would it be fair to say maybe you were watching the simple-minded, bland because you dont deserve good t.v. version? No it would not so I can slip over the insuIts.... it is what it is and you are who you are. . And yes - I can see why you have questions about Penelope Cruz's dress being in perfect condition - seeing that this is a dress she wears to pick up the dry cleaning or run to the supermarket and grab some groceries - yes i would expect a wrinkle or two in it as well....

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Soulmentor — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 16:11:34 GMT

Who cares what Sarah thinks of the Oscars nite any more than caring about the Oscars nite or what who wore, tho I was pleased to see Sean Penn and that handsome screenplay writer Lance Black win and actually have something to say. Maybe Sarah writes frivolous fluff because she can't get a job for beautiful hair commercials. Seriously Sarah, get a new avatar photo or try Pantene. You look like the "before" picture.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

mark1001 — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 17:58:50 GMT

Hey, pgafilms,

Bill Condon did not direct the Oscar winner, Chicago.

Rob Marshall did.

Maybe YOU should do your homework and apologize for berating that poster. To get such a crucial point wrong in your own analysis is just sad.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

jfloyd — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 21:16:45 GMT

It was definitely you, Ramin. Hugh Jackman did a great job and this was one of the best Oscars in years. I've been watching for about 45 years, I had seen all of the nominated films, and I can tell you with certainty that the nominees were all deserving and that the right people won (except maybe Sean Penn - I preferred Mickey Rourke's fabulous performance). I loved the panels of five great actors and actresses presenting to their peers - it added so much star power to the show and the nominees seemed as thrilled as I was to see them. It sounds like you are a typical cynical 20-something who is too cool to enjoy something that isn't supposed to "ironic" or pay attention for longer than 30 minutes. It's the Oscars, kid, beloved around the world. Penelope Cruz had it right when she said this show unifies people all over the globe. Grow up and start paying attention to the movies and what's really good about the show and lay off your adolescent opinions. Nobody cares what you think.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

Dr. James — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 01:54:30 GMT

Sean Penn spoke well for a new attitude for Gay Rights and people looking at the human condition in a new ways. The program featured a low budget look. We need new information to deal with the problems of the world with more insight. Also, Queen Latifa can not sing that well.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

writewingproxycontin — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 03:34:29 GMT

The author got this right point for point, although the tone of the review wasn't quite as caustic as those musical theater melanges were begging for.

On the other hand, I would rather have to fix the world economy than have to devise and produce a witty, entertaining and stylish Oscar® awards show. There are even more structural problems preventing the latter than the former - and that's saying something.

Also, the headline doesn't include the little ® [registered trademark symbol in case it doesn't print,] with Oscars®. You will be chastised and sued and you will NEVER review in this town again.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

rsf1017 — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 18:38:56 GMT

I just love the person on here who said Sean Penn didn't deserve to win. If anyone deserved to win, it was Penn for his amazing performance. Mickey Rourke was basically playing himself - not much of a stretch at all, while Sean Penn took what could have easily been an over-the-top caricature and gave it a certain grace and naturalness. It was definitely a more demanding role. I think Sean Penn is the finest male actor of our time. Bravo to Sean Penn on winning his 2nd Oscar.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

sbigler61 — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 22:16:36 GMT

I thought it was one of the best oscars ever. I was actually able to enjoy it without having to worry about the orchestra interrupting the winners during their speech. That was always so tacky and embarrassing! And having the 5 previous oscar winners present the newest member their award was the best part of the whole show. I hope they continue the tradition.

And Hugh Jackman was great. I never paid too much attention to him (other than the X-men movies) but was very impressed by his performance. Very funny/very talented guy. Job well done!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

pixiepunk — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 22:36:29 GMT

I thoroughly enjoyed the oscars this year and was never bored. I thought having multiple presenters recognizing each of the nominees was a great idea and therefore giving each nominee the credit due them - for just being nominated!

Yes, there were some hiccups along the way but the entertainment was great and allowing the winners their due time to speak as much as they want - long overdue!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

jakeboy — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 23:35:28 GMT

I thought the award show was anything but a bomb! It kepted your attention. I liked the 5 presenters for each award...it was different. LET me see you come up with something better.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

innerjuju — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 02:32:56 GMT

The Oscars were great this year. Hugh Jackson rocked and was a perfect choice despite the above author's poor review (was he picked on in grammar school by a Hugh look-alike?) The show had some great moments (Jackman's opening and big musical numbers, the new multi-presenter setups) and some low points (forgetting halfway through that they had multi-presenters and going back to the boy-girl *yawns* they've had for 60 years, the seasick camera work during In Memorium.) All in all, this Oscars faired much better than past years. At least I didn't turn the channel or fall asleep.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

startingover — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 03:10:35 GMT

I totally agree with the 8 reasons, although I could probably come up with a few more, myself. The article was, 'laugh out loud' funny. She nailed it! Bravo!

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

rtbso — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 03:24:21 GMT

What amazes me is that ANYONE cares about Hollywood, actors, or the Oscars. The world is going to hell and we're supposed to care about what someone wore what on the red carpet and who won a silly little statue for acting in some stupid movie.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

burnthewitch — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:05:49 GMT

Agreed, rtbso. The economy is literally falling into a filled toilet right now and somehow pretty faces with plastic smiles slapped on becomes people's #1 priority. But it makes sense in a way-- people want something comfortable and familiar to stare at, too keep ahold of.

re: 8 Reasons Why the Oscars Bombed This Year

liven4today — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 19:46:07 GMT

Forgive me, every opinion counts so that's why I'm commenting. I found the Oscars to be fantastic. Yes there were glitches but when is there a year there isn't? The musical number with Hugh and Beyonce was awesome but I guess that's just because I like musicals. And having past winners for best actor/actress give the winning nominee the award and so forth was (again in my opinion) genius. I try to watch the Oscars every year and by far I thought this one was the best. As for the comparison to American Idol... you must be Simon then.