And the Nominees are....

I squeaked it under the wire, but I finally saw all five of the Academy Award nominated films as I traditionally do before the award show airs.

Here are my opinions and predictions for Sunday night's Oscars:


THE READER

Of the five films, this is my least favorite. The characters were blah, I didn't feel much emotion for either. Uneven film, wasn't terrible, just not great. Kate Winslet is up for best actress, which I believe she will win. She did do an outstanding job as the post WWII heartless and clueless older German woman who has a brief affair with a much younger man that effects his entire life. I'd give it a 4% chance of winning for best film. Not gonna happen.

FROST/NIXON


Ron Howard did a fine job of directing this interesting take on the glimpse behind the scenes of the inter working of David Frost and Richard Nixon's cat and mouse game. Had some slow moments, but Frank Langella did an outstanding job of presenting a very human Richard Nixon. I'll give it a 10% shot at winning.

MILK


To be honest, I never even heard of Harvey Milk or his gay right activism in the 1970's. So it was interesting to see how the last few years of his life played out. This movie just edged out Frost/Nixon on my list. It felt like it flowed better. Sean Penn stole the show with his portrayal. I predict he will win the Best Actor Oscar. I give the film an 11% chance at winning the big one.

THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON

Very good movie. I was fascinated throughout, never knowing where Benjamin's life was going. He was born an old man and got younger throughout his life. The makeup effects are sure to win an award. Brad Pitt did a wonderful job, but he is up against some very heavy competition. I'd give it a 37% chance to take home the statue. This film came in a close second, and could very well take home the Oscar for best picture, but all the buzz is about the next movie.

SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE


An excellent, unique and interesting movie. Watching the flashbacks of the life of a contestant on India's "Who Wants to be a Millionaire" was intriguing. Putting together bits and pieces of the life of a "Slumdog" all came together in a climatic ending. Danny Boyle may just pull it off and win the best director honors. I'd give the film a 38% shot at winning for Best Picture.

So here are my predictions for the major Oscar awards:

Best Picture: Slumdog Millionaire
Best Actor: Sean Penn (Milk)
Best Actress: Kate Winslet (The Reader)
Best Director: Danny Boyle (Slumdog)
Supporting Actor: Heath Ledger (Dark Night)
Supporting Actress: Taraji P. Henson (Benjamin)

If I don't see you on the red carpet, maybe I'll catch you at the after party!