Friday, January 23, 2009

THE DARK KNIGHT Robbed and Melissa Leo

Yesterday, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences released nominations for the 2008 Academy Awards. In doing so, they once again illustrated why Hollywood is increasingly becoming irrelevant and the ever-growing divide between the Hollywood elite and the general public. THE DARK KNIGHT was one not only the highest grossing film of 2008, but was also one of the best movies of the year. Critics and audiences alike love it. It's been at the top of many people's lists of best movies in 2008 since it was released in July. In my opinion, it is the best picture of 2008 (I'll be posting my list of best movies for 2008 in about a month or so). Despite the overwhelming acclaim, THE DARK KNIGHT was shut out of the best picture race and Christopher Nolan was robbed of a best director nomination. Not only that, but MILK a decent film but not really Oscar-worthy, has been pushed into all of the major categories mainly in retribution for the passing of Proposition 8 in California. THE DARK KNIGHT has been robbed and the Oscars this year will be the least-watched ever.

On a lighter note, the Academy did get one nomination correct. Melissa Leo was nominated for her performance in the indie film, FROZEN RIVER. Her performance is one that is often overlooked, but it is one of the year's best. She faces some stiff competition from puffy lips Angelina Jolie and rising star Anne Hathaway, so is a bit of an underdog, but I'm rooting for her to win.

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