The Academy Awards 2009

And the Oscar Goes to…

By Kelly Arnes

“I’d like to thank the Academy.” Those six words bring tears of joy and jealousy to the eyes of actors and actresses alike, as well as movie lovers around the world. As Penélope Cruz said in her acceptance speech, it is a “moment of unity for the world.” The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences saluted the best of the best from everything from “Best Make-Up” to “Best Motion Picture” on Sunday night, with the delivery of the coveted Oscar.

Hugh Jackman hosted the 81st Annual Oscar’s presented on ABC. When he was actually present on the screen, the show was entertaining, but for being the host of something he was somehow pushed to the background. And there to take his place were commercials. It was as if the show wasn’t slow enough without adding in commercials, the producers decided that every five minutes we needed to be reminded to eat nuts, or shop at JC Penny.

With the onslaught of subliminal messages being shot through the television waves, telling us to buy something, it was amazing that Jackman brought up the recession. Of all the things that could unite a group of people, the recession sure does. Jackman said that the Academy cut back this year, claiming they didn’t have enough money for an opening act. It’s hard to see if the elite are struggling like the rest of the world with their designer dresses and huge jewelry. The one thing that can be seen, or heard, is the cut back in money for films. Slumdog Millionaire was said to be one of the lowest budget films nominated for best picture, and yet it was still able to win eight of its 10 nominations, including “Best Motion Picture.”

The show itself was like a film that fell into two categories, but didn’t truly fit into either one. It resided in between an entertaining, comical, musical and a poorly put together documentary of the year’s movies. The montages of different genres of film were placed in random order. The romance montage was followed by the cinematography awards, and the comedy introduction was followed by the nominations for “Best Short Film.” The night of confusion didn’t stop there, even the audience was confused after the opening number by Jackman as the show transitioned to the presenters for “Best Supporting Actress” in which scattered applause was followed by a crew member shouting “Steve, open it!” as the film begins to play behind a curtain.

The set designers led by David Rockwell, deserve credit for having an amazing set-up. The set was designed elegantly with hints to Italian architecture in the design of floor, which held an abstract floral pattern.

Even with the economic struggles of the everyday people, entertainment seems to be a necessity. The Oscars provides a way for the people, both behind the scenes and on stage, to be recognized for a job well done. The show is a consistency that provides stability in the changing world. Something to look forward to at the beginning of each new year.