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Teary-eyed Oscars hope to win moviegoers' hearts

SIMON HOUPT

From Monday's Globe and Mail

Latest comment posted at 1:09 AM EST 23/02/09

Low-budget, fan favourite completes unlikely rise from Toronto Film Festival to the pinnacle of Hollywood. ...Read the full article

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  1. Matt Neffer from Calgary, Canada writes: Before all the usual negative, who-cares-about-the-Oscars posts begin, I'd like to go on record and say that as a 20 year viewer of the show, I thought it was very well-done broadcast. Not always the most exciting, and definitely not the funniest, but (gasp) classy and it did not wear out its welcome. Also, a couple of genuine surprises. Don't know what the ratings will be like, but I thought it was one of the stronger outings in some time.
  2. Auroran Bear from Montreal, Canada writes: Steve Martin & Tina Fey were great.
  3. Media Man from Calgary, Canada writes: An Indian love story featuring a cast of unknown actors, Slumdog Millionaire is the rags-to-riches fairytale that defied conventional wisdom to strike eight golds at the Oscars on Sunday.
    Congratulations to the entire cast and crew of Slumdog. Great job!!
  4. Dude, where's my Canada? from Canada writes: Fun show, actor tributes were long, but good choices all-around.
  5. Oracle . from Canada writes: Oh no please no more Bollywood films. Should be under the foreign film category.
  6. Barbara Roden from Ashcroft, Canada writes: Thought it was a good show; better than some of the snooze-fests of recent years. Jackman was an engaging host, I liked having past Oscar winners talk to and about this year's nominees, and the set was a lot more intimate than in the past. Some of the presenters seemed under-rehearsed, but Anne Hathaway was a delight. Is there anything - comedy, drama, singing, dancing - she can't do? And glad to see Kate Winslet finally get an Oscar.
  7. Bryce Richards from Calgary, Canada writes: only the academy could pick a foreign movie that only a handfull of movie goers would even consider paying good money to see. little wonder that the movie audience is less interested in what goes on in hollywood. who picks these misfits for human consumption anyway. this one will be off my list for sure.
  8. Matt Neffer from Calgary, Canada writes: Yeah, Bryce! You tell 'em! Take that, 85% of the planet that isn't North America! Whoo-hoo!

    Wow. How dare something other than 'Paul Blart, Mall Cop' compete for Bryce's entertainment dollar.
  9. Loki Wils hopes for the best from Canada writes: That was nice for Will Smith (one of my favourite actors) to give a shout-out to the fans - us!

    I love Bollywood movies. The musicals in particular are exceptional!
  10. N Bormann from Canada writes:
    Well Bryce I guess it would kinda be like what's the best restaurant of the year? Those who know food might find a nice Indian/Brit fusion joint just the thing while others would argue the populists should have it with oh....McDonalds.

    ..
  11. Chuck in Edmonton from Canada writes: Bryce - you might try actually seeing the film first before dismissing it solely because it didn't originate in North America. That would allow you to speak to the 'handful' of people watching (who have already put the film north of $150 million in ticket sales despite the fact that it was held back for release initially and is just now hitting its stride) with something more than cynical BS.

    Saw it last Friday and it is every bit as good as they say.

    As to the Awards tonight, seemed pretty much same old despite putting Jackman in - and can't someone tell the guy he can't sing??? He managed the dancing pretty well, but without Hathaway and then Beyonce both musical numbers would have been disasters.

    Martin and Fey were the best; Will Smith pretty cute, and the presentations of the acting awards was pretty well done. But overall, nothing to get excited about.
  12. Simon Houpt from New York, United States writes: Slumdog Millionaire has now made more than $98 million at the North American box office, and looks very likely to become one of the top 20 films released in 2008, topping movies like Get Smart and Tropic Thunder, with a chance of doing better than even Mamma Mia. But of course, Mamma Mia featured music by a Swedish band and was shot in Greece by a British director: that is, it was foreign and therefore, presumably, bad.
  13. Chester Rockwell from Canada writes: Oracle . from Canada writes: 'Oh no please no more Bollywood films. Should be under the foreign film category. '

    No such category exists... I am always shocked that after 80 years of Oscars, people still don't get this. There is no category for 'foreign films.' There is 'foreign language', not film. Given that Slumdog is largely English, it doesn't qualify.

    Ditto for The Reader. It is a British film, about German people, that got nominated for Best Film because English isn't a foreign language.

    Bryce Richards from Calgary, Canada writes: 'only the academy could pick a foreign movie that only a handfull of movie goers would even consider paying good money to see.'

    I'm legitimately confused, are you satirizing ignorant hicks or do you just not get 'it'? Aside from the difference between foreign films/foreign language films (see above), since when has quality of art been proportionate to competing with Micheal Bay? Pirates of the Caribbean 3 made over a billion dollars, it doesn't change the fact it was a horrible movie now does it?

    Besides, Slumdog Millionaire has grossed 150 million dollars so far. How much money have you made?
  14. AA in Ottawa from Canada writes:
    Excellent movie, slumdog.

    Did any of the acceptance speeches refer to India's slums? Are any of the proceeds from this movie going toward alleviating India's shameful treatment of their less fortunate? Or the abuse of orphans?
  15. L P from Canada writes:
    'But of course, Mamma Mia featured music by a Swedish band and was shot in Greece by a British director: that is, it was foreign and therefore, presumably, bad.

    I prefer Kung Fu movies, 'Slumdog' is not my taste.
  16. ishmael daro from Saskatoon, Canada writes: @Matt Neffer from Calgary

    Well said.
  17. Malc F from Toronto, Canada writes: Why is this the headline story in the paper? G&M turns tabloid. Poor reporting too, claiming it rose from the Toronto Film Festival. Do the G&M editors really look down that much on their readers that they need a line like that to suck people in? The film opened at a bunch of film festivals in the same period of time, starting with the Telluride Fim Festival.

    USA 30 August 2008 (Telluride Film Festival)
    Canada 7 September 2008 (Toronto Film Festival)
    USA 17 October 2008 (Austin Film Festival)
    USA 19 October 2008 (Chicago International Film Festival)
    UK 31 October 2008 (London Film Festival)
    USA 7 November 2008 (AFI Film Festival)
  18. chris c from vancouver, Canada writes: Bryce, rather than post a blog you didn't even read and just googled in two seconds, why not offer in your own words what you find bad about this film? Cause all we're getting from you so far is a bunch of 'umm, hmm' and no real substance.

    And it was not only the Academy that awarded this film. It pretty much swept any professional award offered. And it scores highly on most aggregate sites too (like rottentomatoes).
  19. Steve is reporting LIVE from the US / Canuckistani border from Canada writes:

    Didn't watch, didn't care.
    Just another leftisthon for the masses.
    The Leafs - Rangers OT game was more entertaining.
  20. kitty kumari from Canada writes: Congratulations to Kate... and definitely Heath! You guys are my favourites!
  21. Ander Cori from Vancouver-Beijing, Canada writes: Congratulations to everyone who made 'Slumdog Millionaire' the success that it has become. I knew halfway through watching this movie it would be a winner wherever it was up for an award.

    As a Canadian in China who grew up in 7 countries, I was at first a little confused it was not classified a foreign film - but who really cares? It's an Indian story made with incredible depth and care, a compelling human struggle and spoken in that universal language - English. Apparently, the English part, is what truly counts to the folks at the Academy.

    I'm a little surprised at some of the comments by those who 'don't care' & 'think it sucks'. Why are you even reading this article in the first place?

    Tonight's show was considerably toned down, but all the better for it.

    And, hey, Bill Smith! Bill Maher was there to prove that God [sic] couldn't strike him down, because there is no god. Duh.
  22. Roop Misir from Toronto, Canada writes: Bollywood came to Hollywood last night.

    Signs of the Times, eh?
  23. George S from Toronto, Canada writes: So glad that Sean Penn won the Best Actor category for his portrayal of Harvey Milk in the film 'Milk'. I can remember, and I am not that old, when an established actor would never take a gay role and a role such as that would never be considered for an award. The US and Canadian societies have come a long way, but, their is still work to be done to tear down the walls that divide us. I haven't seen 'Slumdog Millionaire' YET but sounds like a film I would enjoy. Is that a Bollywood film or is it a British film made in India? India's Bollywood produces more films then Hollywood and some of them are good enough to warrant Oscar attention. Good for them!
  24. varun xm from toronto, Canada writes: Loved Rahman's speech and the Jai Ho Wall E mash up. Couldnt help feeling that Sean penn won because of the prop 8 snub to gays. Rourke was robbed.
  25. baldev sood from toronto, Canada writes:
    The best show in the the recent memory.
    It was not boring and fast pace and stylish show .
    Congratulations.
  26. CallofDuty . from Toronto, Canada writes: AA in Ottawa from Canada writes:
    Excellent movie, slumdog.

    Did any of the acceptance speeches refer to India's slums? Are any of the proceeds from this movie going toward alleviating India's shameful treatment of their less fortunate? Or the abuse of orphans?
    ------------------------------------------
    Agreed. Don't ever think one of these actors represent india. These guys have been sheltered from the true india.
  27. Sylvia Wilson from Canada writes: Great show, tastefully done. The song and dance number was outstanding. Nice that the academy recognized Jerry Lewis for all the work he's done for Muscular Dystrophy.

    Likely the reason for the decrease in people not attending theatres is the high price of the tickets.
  28. Norm Jom from Petawawa, Canada writes: Callofduty, did you see the film at all?
  29. Broad Vacant from St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada writes: There's a world of worthwhile critical commentary that could be applied to some of the major winners, and from the show itself. But the crankiness of some posters here certainly adds that truly special hint of total and complete unworthiness. Does anonymous snarky swiping improve your self esteem? Just curious.
  30. Just Plain Blue from Toronto, Canada writes: Congratulations Heath Ledger! You are missed! Thank-you for such an amazing but all too short career.
  31. Lana Tam from Canada writes: Will the young stars of Slumdog now get more than the $1,200 or so that was their salary for the film? Something there ain't kosher. Yeah, it's so much more than they had before, but -- in all honesty -- compared to what the film is making...
  32. Bob Dylan's Voice from Canada writes: Love the plug for the Toronto Film Festival in the by line. Can nothing succeed without Toronto's blessing?
  33. Mitch hourigan from Canada writes: Who gives a rat's a$$, just a bunch of self serving overpaid egomaniacs.
  34. bilbo baggins from Canada writes: This was a silly movie. The entrance of Bollywood signals the death of movies like the music video killed music!
  35. Norm Jom from Petawawa, Canada writes: You do Mitch, that's why you posted.
  36. Sarah N from Canada writes: I got an email from Foster Parents Plan a few weeks ago saying Dev Patel had donated his entire earnings from the movie to Plan International...

    http://blogs.mirror.co.uk/developing-world-stories/tag/Dev%20Patel
  37. Sarah N from Canada writes: Sorry I meant Anil Kapoor, not Dev Patel.
  38. Compos Mentis from Toronto, Canada writes: The 'Super Bowl' of awards shows was, as usual, a load of sentimental tripe, mixed in with some left wing political crap, smothered by a sauce of self-congratulatory fawning! It's enough to make anyone gag and puke. All that glitz and glamour - while the unemployment lines grow ever longer and all these idiots who host these incessant award shows can think about is who designed the over the top dresses that no one, save the rich and famous can even buy. The complete shallowness of this business and the people who 'star' in it is overshadowed only by the absolute absurdity of it all. Imagine getting an award for apparently 'acting' in the stories of real life people involved in the real dramas of life and living. Bizarre, indeed!
  39. Mitch hourigan from Canada writes: Nope just never ceases to amaze me that so many people pander to actors, proffesional sports, the sums paid out to these people is ridiculous. Millions of dollars and yet many in society can't afford to eat. To me, a sign of what is wrong in the world.
  40. Norm Jom from Petawawa, Canada writes: Yes Compost Menis, no one should ever get an award for a job they do.
  41. Norm Jom from Petawawa, Canada writes: What's amazing is folks don't get what these awards are or how they are funded. It's an association of the actors themselves annually giving out awards recognising its members contributions. Every organisations do it, most companies do it.

    That it becomes a televised spectical is immaterial, obviously there is an audience for it, otherwise it would never air. No one is forcing you to watch.
  42. Compos Mentis from Toronto, Canada writes: Norm Jom from Petawawa, Canada writes: Yes Compost Menis, no one should ever get an award for a job they do. ********************** I'm glad that you agree with me! Nice play on the name by the way - very original.....by the way who did you get to design that wonderful dress you're wearing? You look fabulous dahling!
  43. Norm Jom from Petawawa, Canada writes: Oh did I spell your name wrong, sorry. Obviously I don't agree with you.
  44. bilbo baggins from Canada writes: Poor Mickey Rourke. Wrestlers didnt have a chance against gay guys in Hollywood!
  45. A C from Albertario, Canada writes:
    Steve is reporting LIVE writes: Didn't watch, didn't care.

    Uhm, right. You only cared enough to post that you didn't care.

    That's a nice blend of apathy and egoism that you've got going there. So, on behalf of all posters, I'd just like to thank you for updating us all on all the important things going on in your life right now in the comments section of an article that has nothing whatsoever to do with you.

    Thanks for adding to the conversation and be sure to keep those cards and letters coming.

    .
  46. Compos Mentis from Toronto, Canada writes: Yes, nothing like a bunch of self appointed eltitists getting together to vote themselves an award based on some non-defined basis all paid for by - oh yeah, where do they get the money to pay for all this stuff. Couldn't be out of the proceeds of movies could it - those excessively overpriced ticket just like sporting events, all to keep those chosen few in the lifestyle they've become accustomed to. Actually there are some awards that are worthwhile, like oh say the Nobel awards, awards which are presented to people who actually do something important (acting about doing something important doesn't count) or those awards presented to someone for doing something heroic. The academy awards like most other 'professional award shows' are nothing more than the profession's self congratulatory recognition and demonstration of their own self-importance. The participants are like the kid in the class who crave affection and attention crying out 'look at me, look at me' just because he/she completed a homework assignment. Meanwhile the other kids who handed in their homework last week can only wonder why these clowns deserve any recognition at all!
  47. greg s from Ottawa, Canada writes: Tell me why the supporting actors showed up to be embarrassed when it was a mailed in winner?
  48. Matt Neffer from Calgary, Canada writes: So Steve didn't watch/didn't care. He watched the Rangers game instead, apparently. Good for Steve. Hey, here's something: Do you know what you NEVER see in the comments page on the SPORTS stories? People saying things like 'Stupid hockey game, I skipped it and went to the opera.' Huh. Wonder why that is.
  49. Norm Jom from Petawawa, Canada writes: Compos Mentis from Toronto, Canada writes: Yes, nothing like a bunch of self appointed eltitists getting together to vote themselves an award based on some non-defined basis all paid for by - oh yeah, where do they get the money to pay for all this stuff.

    --------------------

    They pay for it from their association dues.
  50. bilbo baggins from Canada writes: Yes Norm, and that money comes from where I believe is the point.
  51. bilbo baggins from Canada writes: Stop whining about people who post on here that they dont like the Oscars. If you want group think or only people that love the same things you do, then create your own blog and password protect it. You are in an OPEN and FREE forum here. Suck it up.
  52. Auroran Bear from Montreal, Canada writes: Mickey Rourke was robbed. Shame.
  53. Old Timer from Timmins, Canada writes: .

    Laugh out loud.

    What a ridiculous and annoyingly grating headline this newspaper has foolishly chosen: 'Film completes unlikely rise from Toronto Film Festival to the pinnacle of Hollywood'.

    Why is the Globe and Mail feeding its readers with make-believe crap?

    As was correctly pointed out by a pervious post writer, named 'Malc from Toronto', this film did not even open at the Toronto film festival. Indeed, Toronto's film festival was one of many where this film was shown.

    The film was shown first at the Colorado film festival the month before, where at the time the film made such a big impact that the Reuter's news article had the film in its first sentence of the news article about the US film festival: 'director Danny Boyle's Slumdog Millionaire gained strong buzz'.

    The Globe and Mail makes Canada look really, really tiny and silly with this kind of crap reporting aimed at getting Canada undue attention. This film did not make ANY meaningful trek from 'the Toronto Film Festival to the pinnacle of Hollywood'.

    To the contrary, the Toronto festival just happened to be one of many film festivals at which the film was shown. Toronto deserves NO PLACE in any meaningful news headline about the film.

    Grow up, Globe and Mail, and stop waving your Canadian flags so childishly in choosing your headlines.

    There is no need to strain and to ridiculously insert Canada into every news story that comes along. Leave that to the CBC, the masters of this infantile form of art fiction.

    .
  54. Norm Jom from Petawawa, Canada writes: bilbo baggins from Canada writes: Yes Norm, and that money comes from where I believe is the point.

    ------------------------

    From people that pay to have the movies made. The people that have the movies made are paid from investors, investors are paid from proceeds, proceeds come from those that watch movies.

    What's the point?
  55. Reality Check from Vancouver, Canada writes: The Old Timer from Timmins writes: 'Grow up, Globe and Mail, and stop waving your Canadian flags so childishly in choosing your headlines. There is no need to strain and to ridiculously insert Canada into every news story that comes along. Leave that to the CBC, the masters of this infantile form of art fiction.'

    Bravo, Old Timer!

    You hit the nail on the head, about the Globe's headline.
  56. varun xm from toronto, Canada writes: Sarah N. thanks for the link on Anil Kapoor. He's quite the guy. Punj's represented well. Score one for Gulzar too.
  57. Justin Stamross from Canada writes: And Hollywood's love affair with poor, over-rated foreign films continues. Saw Slumdog and it is not nearly as good as all the band-wagon jumpers say. What a typical move by the moronic 'Academy'.

    Surefire way to win an oscar:
    Film some crappy movie in an impoverished country, throw in some actors with foreign accents, make it a corny love story, and there ya go.
  58. Compos Mentis from Toronto, Canada writes: Coming soon, a new award show to honour all the enterntainer award shows, it's called: The 'Award Show Society Honouring Ourselves with Love & Endearment' also known as ..... you get the picture I'm sure. They were going to to call it the 'Picture Recording Institute Celebration Knight' Award Show, but apparently that was already taken....but they changed the name to Oscars
  59. Sol Bass from Canada writes: I don't usually watch much of the Oscars but I must say it was much better done then in past years. Quite entertaining overall and happy with most of the winners like Heath Ledger.
  60. Magnolia Fan from Canada writes: I understand that Hollywood is trying to break into new markets, but that doesn't justify making me listen to that music during their award show.
  61. An Thornton from Canada writes: I wish people would stop referring to Slumdog Millionaire as a Bollywood film. Danny Boyle, the director brought us films like Trainspotting and 28 Days Later, hardly Bollywood.

    It was fantastic, and I would pay my 'hard earned' money to go see it again.
  62. Compos Mentis from Toronto, Canada writes: Norm Jom from Petawawa, Canada writes: From people that pay to have the movies made. The people that have the movies made are paid from investors, investors are paid from proceeds, proceeds come from those that watch movies. What's the point? ******************************************************** That is the point: The rich lavish lifestyle of those involved in this industry is paid for by the people who watch movies, which also pays for the lavish award shows, the lavish parties we can't get into and the lavish lifestyles we can only imagine. All because the elitists who run this industry perpetuate the myth that this 'art form' has some cultural significance and they do so by handing out lavish awards which in turn perpetuates the myth that we should really, really care about the people who receive the awards, because gosh darn it they are so very, very important!
  63. Chris J from Toronto, Canada writes: I thought the host did a great job.

    Personally, I wasn't overly thrilled with the choices for best picture, but even if I don't think they were great movies, I have to admit they were at least all good movies (I didn't see Milk, but I've heard good things).

    I'm hoping that 2009 is a better movie year than 2008.
  64. Glynn W from Canada writes: Before artists from any branch of the arts continue to criticize any other human rights issues in the world, they should take a step back and see how they have helped institutionalized poverty, if it isn't already, in India by co-opting a small group of people and imbuing them with a sense of 'meritocracy.'
  65. K. M. from Canada writes: HOLLYSMOKE people MICKEY ROURKE WAS ROBBED! and nobody says a word. Sean Penn is OK haven't seen MILK but can't believe that the Academy could overlook a great performance like Rourkes in the Wrestler. It looks like the Academy was either screwing Rourke for some reason or taking the political road and supporting gay rights as an after thought. These are the same people who could find no wrong with Obama and yet he clearly did not support gay marriage. Politics gets involved and Rourke loses . Not to worry Mickey, Hollywood home of illusion never gave an Academy Award to Cary Grant for a performance he did receive a token type Lifetime award . I hope Rourke stays on the scene. Slum Dog is a terrific movie, a rags to riches fairy tale that deserved to win . It will I hope open the world's eyes to Overpopulation , slumlife, poor infrastructure, human suffering,sanitation etc,etc. If not I guess we will always have the Ambassdr Jolie, architect Pitt, Activists Bono , Clooney, Sarandon, Penn,etc to do their other jobs. Not to mention the shreiking fashionista police and the slow mo Glamoursation Cameras to guide us thru another awards show. Sometimes it makes you long for the old times when people looked real , and actors stuck to what they knew 'acting' .
  66. Mitch hourigan from Canada writes: I question why the G&M needs to make the Oscars a headline story.
    Are there not enough self aggrandizing outlets on mainstream media.
    ie: entertainment tonight etc.
    Lets keep the news news and relegate this claptrap to it's own section of media information.
  67. guy tozer from Saskatoon, Canada writes: The Nascar race was pretty decent.
  68. Black Acre from Toronto, Canada writes: Yes, Slumdog was shown at a festival before it was shown at TIFF. But the fact is that, until it became the hit of the Toronto festival (winning the only award that TIFF gives out - the People's Choice Award), it had not received a distribution deal and was probably destined to be released direct to DVD. The reception that it received at TIFF was instrumental in convincing Fox Searchlight to put it into wider distribution. Telluride may be a cool place, but TIFF, as the best attended film festival in the world, is far more influential.
    And I'm glad someone pointed out that the there is no 'foreign film' concept at the Oscars. The distinction is based solely on language, not country of origin. Which explains why one of the best 'foreign films' of recent years - the wonderful Israeli movie 'The Band's Visit' - didn't qualify for an Oscar nomination since more than 50% of the dialogue was in English
  69. Ivan Wong from Canada writes: What is a slum dog?
  70. Kevin Sutton from Toronto, Canada writes: I watched most of the Oscars with the sound off. I'm glad that Slumdog did well, as I felt that it was a truly excellent film.
    most important award they could get.
  71. JACK V from Canada writes: I would like thank my CAW for getting me a good wage at G.M and for supporting me for all these years in good times and bad THANKYOU.
  72. Norm Jom from Petawawa, Canada writes: Do none of the awards haters here, not have awards at their work place? You know employee of the month, year, exceptional sales, safety award, and such? This is no different, it's the association awarding its members in their chosen field.

    I know many of you have at least employee of the month, some of you are surely McDonalds burger flippers.
  73. James Tee from Calgary, Canada writes: GlobeandMail editors - please correct the statement 'Sean Penn criticized those who voted against Proposition 8 last year'. Proposition 8 was in support the ban on same sex marriage, and Sean Penn in fact criticized those who voted FOR Proposition 8 last year.
  74. Christian Paddington from TORONTO, Canada writes: The Oscars this year was the worst I've ever seen. Jackman was in over his head, and the lengthy tributes to the acting nominees was nauseating(you'd think they'd collectively cured cancer or something). And the zooming in and out of the camera during the obituaries was in poor taste. It's not like Hollywood has ever had alot of dignity, but this year was particularly bad. As for the awards themselves, it's an absolute travesty that Meryl Streep didn't win for Doubt. Her performance was amazing. Winslett was good, but nowhere near as good as Streep. And Slum Dog Millionaire? A quaint movie, but shouldn't have been nominated, much less won the award for best picture. It does NOT examine the plight of India's slums(which would have been a good movie). It's a largely-unbelievable love story, set against the backdrop of Mumbai's slums(much as Pearl Harbor was several years ago). It was contrived and of little interest to anyone with any real intelligence. Doubt, The Reader, The Wrestler, Frost/Nixon and, yes, The Dark Knight were all SIGNIFICANTLY better movies than Slumdog Millionaire. I think the only reason it won is because Hollywood thinks that giving out awards to visible minorities(in the US) will somehow make up for all the years that they were discriminated against by the industry.
  75. A non-Imus from Canada writes: That the Academy would give away Mickey Rourke's trophy to a long-time company man like Sean Penn was totally predictable. I'll take the Golden Globes as the 'official' winners, thank you very much.
  76. Another Option canada from Canada writes: Guess I will just have to bit torrent Slumdog and check it out..
  77. Paul, Bytown, from Canada writes: The Academy's message to Hollywood studios: Go to India and make movies. Cheap labour readily available. We'll promote you.
  78. David Johnson from Canada writes: It was a so-so show but one big element was missing for me, no Jack Nicholson sitting on the front row wearing shades. He was always a fixture at the Oscars, always. Times have changed I guess and the old Hollywood school of actors are perhaps not so important to the younger generation anymore in spite of the countless hours of pleasure they gave us over the years in many great films.
  79. Glynn W from Canada writes: Slumdog = 'money for nothing...' Business as usual!
  80. Jay D from Canada writes: Anyone know how Slumdog Millionaire compares to the book it's based on, Q&A? I liked the book, and based on the reviews I'll probably go see the movie. The book seemed very adaptable to a screenplay when I read it, so I'm not surprised it turned it well.
  81. aaron gemmell from winnipeg, Canada writes: I think Aaron should have won best actor for his portrayal of a god in the Fort Garry`s branch version of a CSR line. No surprises in Leah winning biggest loser, Carly winning fattest CSR, and Ashley winning dumbest person to wear a nametag to work.
  82. Auroran Bear from Montreal, Canada writes: Christian Paddington from TORONTO, Canada writes: And Slum Dog Millionaire? A quaint movie, but shouldn't have been nominated, much less won the award for best picture. It does NOT examine the plight of India's slums(which would have been a good movie).
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    How about rather than crapping on what was an exercise in entertainment, you put pen to paper and craft a screenplay based on the story you want to tell.
  83. Beatriz Perez-Sanchez from Toronto, Canada writes: I was thrilled to see Sean Penn win last night. Seldom has an actor done such justice to the memory of the character that he portrayed. Having seen both the film 'Milk' and a great deal of film footage of Harvey Milk himself, I am overwhelmed by Penn's performance and by his ability to capture the essence of Milk's persona right down to the last nuance. For too many years, Hollywood shunned movies with gay themes unless they promoted the old stereotypes that only served to reinforce public prejudice. Although 'Brokeback Mountain' was a major departure from that trend, the film 'Milk', like the man himself, has gone further than any other to smashing down the closet doors. Sean Penn deserves credit not merely for his superb acting in this film but also for the fact that he has shown that he truly understands its subject and the need for full social equality in the 'land of the free'. That point was made clear in his acceptance speech. It is truly shameful that, long after the era of Anita Bryant and Senator Briggs, so many Americans are still putting so much time, money and effort into denying equal rights to others.
  84. CallofDuty . from Toronto, Canada writes: bilbo baggins from Canada writes: This was a silly movie. The entrance of Bollywood signals the death of movies like the music video killed music!
    -----------------------------------
    I was going to say, if it weren't for the UK director and producers, this movie would not get any awards. When was the last Indian made movie that made it to Oscars? Yeh, I don't remember it as well. This was a Brit movie that was shot in India. Plain as that.
  85. Justin Stamross from Canada writes: Hahah Christian Paddington.
    'the lengthy tributes to the acting nominees was nauseating(you'd think they'd collectively cured cancer or something)'

    So true. I guess these egotistical money-sucking actors and actresses aren't happy enough with their images on the big screen in theatres, they want them on display for the world to see at the Oscar's as well. These performers make me sick. At least athletes earn their paycheques by performing things ordinary people can't do. Acting can be done by anyone, and really doesn't involve a whole lot of talent. How hard is it to memorize a few lines, read them to a camera, get pampered like Middle Eastern Royalty, and earn millions of dollars. What a complete sham. The Oscars shouldn't even exist. These useless performers don't deserve a second of recognition.
  86. J B from Canada writes: Where is Hanna Montana? And Billy Ray ? LOL
  87. Norm Jom from Petawawa, Canada writes: Justin Stamross from Canada writes:
    Acting can be done by anyone, and really doesn't involve a whole lot of talent. How hard is it to memorize a few lines, read them to a camera,

    --------------------------------

    So why isn't it that you aren't doing it?
  88. M K S from Toronto, Canada writes: I have not seen Slumdog, but I am sure I would not like it if I did.

    The rags-to-riches plots is one of the most overdone. If this is what Bollywood has to offer the world than they can keep it.

    Sounds like a 'chick flick' to me.
  89. Zarny YYC from Calgary, Canada writes: The Academy Awards have become so predictable. Any small, independent film that does well at the box office cleans up at the awards.

    I was glad to see Heath Ledger get the nod for Best Supporting Actor.
  90. Brian Pelican from denver, United States writes: Norm Jom, excellent comment, should shut that idiot down. There are so many on these boards who feel so superior and criticize those who they couldn't begin to emulate.
  91. John Stanton from Toronto, Canada writes: 'Bryce Richards from Calgary, Canada writes: only the academy could pick a foreign movie that only a handfull of movie goers would even consider paying good money to see.'

    Uh... it made a hundred a fifty million dollars at the box office. Not exactly niche, is it Bryce? Time to go back to kindergarden.
  92. O Canada from Canada writes: Malc, et al... Even the stars of the picture credit the TFF for helping get a wider distribution. Why TFF's influence must be dimished to satisfy Toronto and success haters, is beyond me... 'The film also screened at the Toronto International Film Festival on 7 September 2008, where it was 'the first widely acknowledged popular success' of the festival,[31] winning the People's Choice Award.[32]' ''In a strange way it's like my little gift back to the city because this is where it all started. This is where we had a first fan following, where we had the first standing ovation given to us by the press,' said Pinto, 24, referring to the People's Choice Award the film won at the Toronto festival last September.' 'Boyle announced that he made minor edits before its screening at the 33rd Toronto International Film Festival, where it went on to win the Cadillac Peoples Choice Award, voted on by festival audiences. Several prominent critics such as Roger Ebert have claimed that the film is a strong contender at the Academy Awards. It closed the London Film Festival next, on October 30 before its limited release.' There is nothing wrong with stating facts and acknowledging that the Toronto Film Festival is widely popular, enjoyed and influencial. Geez, why do Canadian's always want to hate their own? British influence, I think.
  93. K. M. from Canada writes: A non-Imus from Canada writes: That the Academy would give away Mickey Rourke's trophy to a long-time company man like Sean Penn was totally predictable. I'll take the Golden Globes as the 'official' winners, thank you very much.

    I agree looks like the Foreign Press nailed it , and the Academy got confused ie. And for best performance the Noble Peace Prize goes to Sean Pe......... The world press had already picked Rourke as the winner & how come Penn wasn't even on the global media radar? Maybe this kind of goofiness is why A listers were not in attendance last night. Since Hollywood likes to get Political maybe they should get more democratic and have democratic vote in like American Idol. Mickey Rourke would have won hands down in a peoples choice type scenario. I know Mickey did receive a lot of positive PR so I am very sure he will be in another great movie and please his growing public and his longtime fans again.
  94. The Susus from Canada writes: Never had the attention span for the oscars, but good for whoever won! :)

    Movies to me are just like any other consumable, enjoyed and then disposed. That sounds harsh, but it's all novelty to me. Look it's new, ohhh, done with it...NEXT! :)
  95. Old Timer from Timmins, Canada writes: .

    Laught out loud.

    The person named 'O Canada from Canada' bursts onto the board to hurl personal attacks along the lines of bigotry, claiming that people who took issue with the Toronto-centric headline are a bunch of 'success haters' and 'Toronto haters'.

    Get real, dude. There is neither a dislike for Toronto (great city), nor a dislike for success (let alone a 'hatred', laugh out loud).

    Incidentally, in your vainglorious proclamation, you sound phenomenally naive if you consider those comments from the actress in question to be a matter of 'stating facts'.

    In case you are unaware, the fact is that when an actress or actor visits a city, they will say things to garner the wanted publicity, press coverage and good will of the town folk.

    No surprise that, when she subsequently visited Toronto again and was interviewed, she gushed heaping praise. Big surprise (not). That is business smarts.

    It is kind of the opposite of David Duchovny of the X-files, who once called Vancouver a place akin to the ice ages, and who was smeared in the newspapers as a result. As an actor, do you want good publicity and coverage? Of course, so heap praise on the locals. An easy lesson to learn.

    Incidentally, the actress importantly said 'I think in a strange way if this city hadn't started it all for us, it could have been a bit more difficult.'

    Got that? It COULD have been a BIT more difficult to have their hit recognized.

    That hardly makes Toronto pivotal, in the actress's frank assessment. Seriously.

    But you go on believing the headline fits, dude: Sure, Toronto and Canada are the center of the universe as far as this film goes. Enjoy your belief.
  96. Alban Leurk from Ottawax, Canada writes: The most boring contrived ceremony with even the winners being bored to death... meanwhile AMC was playing Patton... a much better show!
    And the best were 'comments closed' during the ceremony: even the oscars are now sensitive material for the Globe censors... LOL
  97. Jesse Winger from Calgary, Canada writes: Slumdog Millionaire is a classic and deserves everything it has earned. Congratulations!!!

    And this Academy Awards show was one of the best I've seen in some forty years. Well done!
  98. Sean Connery from Canada writes: Danny Boyle should make some more Sci-fi movies now that he can get the money!

    Great show.
  99. Alex Yaxmos from Canada writes: For like the first time I can remember a movie wins Best Picture without any of their actors getting any nominations for acting. That says something about acting these days. People just want a good screenplay and good direction I guess, who cares about acting. However, I am happy to see an new Oscars show, was fun to watch.
  100. Still Surfing from Los Angeles, United States writes: Actually, following up on the debate about the headline - it is actually not even that unusual for a Toronto Film Festival award winner to win in the US a bunch of Oscars including Best Picture.

    In fact, it happens about every decade, and includes films such as American Beauty and Chariots of Fire.

    And so no, contrary to the headline, actually is not that unusual or that unlikely for a film to get the top award in Toronto and then later the top awards in Hollywood - which means that, from that angle also, the headline is indeed off the mark.

    And as far as the other grounds for criticism go, noted by others elsewhere, the headline does also oddly kind of scream 'look at me', without explaining 'why' in the underlying printed article. The reaction to it is not surprising.

    If there were an Oscar for headline writing, the above entry would not be a deserving winner, IMHO.
  101. Mike Milne from Canada writes:
    Another millionaire circle-jerk.

    All the global poverty and what receives the most political applause? What's at the forefront of important issues to the Hollywood elite? That 2 gays have the right to marry.

    Back-asswards. (No pun intended). Just bitter that Californian citizens voted against gay marriage.

    Give it up. No one cares.
  102. J. K. GALBRAITH from Canada writes: Danny Boyle himself also commented on the Red Carpet on Sunday that the Toronto International Film Festival for giving the movie a large boost in awareness and exposure. It is not just the Globe and Mail giving its own interpretation to Slumdog' rise to triumph.
  103. Edward Carson from Brampton, Canada writes: Um, just because a movie has Indian actors and is placed in India doesn't make it Bollywood. British director, British production company, and even the lead actor was British raised.
    Aside from that, this was the feel good PC Oscars. Can you imagine the outcry if Heath Ledger didn't win? Or if Sean Penn didn't win because of what his role was? Or if another movie took Best Picture?
    The radicals would be crawling out of the woodwork with claims of homophobia, racism and callousness.
  104. bilbo baggins from Canada writes: Norm Jom - the money comes from those who go to the movies and buy the DVDs. That's the point.
  105. mone ofurbus from Canada writes: Amazing how millions idolize,exalt, and glorify actors while in reality their no different than the derelict on skid row. The raw fact however is that the "stars" and producers of most films and shows,have polluted the minds of several generations with violence, lust,pornography,murder,swearing,homosexuality,ect.
    Very noble and inspiring, worthy of laud and honor.
  106. A C from Albertario, Canada writes:

    K. M. writes: HOLLYSMOKE people MICKEY ROURKE WAS ROBBED! and nobody says a word. Sean Penn is OK haven't seen MILK but can't believe that the Academy could overlook a great performance like Rourkes in the Wrestler.

    K.M., if you haven't seen Milk, then how can you say which performance was better?

    That's like saying someone was robbed but you never saw a crime take place.

    Consider these three questions:
    1. Do you think Penn could play a wrestler?
    2. Do you think Rourke could play Harvey Milk?
    3. Who do you think might be the better actor?

    1-2-3, and that's the match to Sean "Thespianator" Penn.

    .
  107. Norm Jom from Petawawa, Canada writes: bilbo baggins from Canada writes: Norm Jom - the money comes from those who go to the movies and buy the DVDs. That's the point.

    -----------------

    Not really. The money to pay for the awards comes from the actors and others that pay dues to the academy. Money paid to actors and others are from producers and production houses. Yes ultimately the money that ends up in the hands of actors is from people that buy and watch movies. It's as much arm's length as determining the money you earn ultimately at some point came from me.

    Where the money came from is not nor should it be an issue at all. The awards are from the academy which all these people are members of, and are to show appreciation for their contributions.

    It's no different than you getting employee of the month at McDonalds, or citizen of the year from the rotary club. I don't get what the griping is all about, awards are given in many clubs, organisations, corporations, countries, towns, etc... It's a recognition of excelling in whatever group you happen to belong to. If you happen to be an NHL player you might win any number of awards, same for any sport.

    Some of you don't seem to get it at all.
  108. Kim Philby from Canada writes: Justin Stamross: your assertion that anyone can act was severely put to the test by Elvis Presley, among others.
  109. Brian Pelican from denver, United States writes: mone ofurbus, "They are" is spelled "They're" not "their"- what is so hard about writing correct English these days. What the hell kind of impression are you passing down to your kids?
  110. mone ofurbus from Canada writes: Brian Pelican from denver, United States writes: mone ofurbus, "They are" is spelled "They're" not "their"- what is so hard about writing correct English these days. What the hell kind of impression are you passing down to your kids?
    ------------------------------------------------------------
    Very good, you've caught the spelling mistake, too bad you missed the message!
    P.S. your descriptive use of language has left a positive impression on your kids, I,m sure.
  111. K. M. from Canada writes: AC from Liberia Have I seen MILK ? No, not yet, and probably not unless it comes up on a long flight. In fact considering the large range of Sean Penn's work I can honestly tell you I have seen only 2 movies and that is probably by choice, although I couldn't say for sure. I only included my admission for people like yourself . The Guardian said his portrayal was an "okay version of a well practiced punctilious gay man" to paraphrase. I won't run out to see this ,just as I haven't run out to see Sam or Dead Man or others . I guess I'm am not much of a Penn fan so I'm just saying.. I agree with the pick of Rourke by the World Foreign Press , National Post, Now and a few others. I will speak to a friend who is a movie critic and inquire if said critic, feels like you, & Penn really did DESERVE the award. But based on my limited exposure to Penn's acting abilities and my personal taste I'm sticking to my choice of Mickey Rourke , you might not like that but I still feel Mickey Rourke was robbed because his performance had so many people buzzing there had to be something going down that was special . I think Sean Penn would be a lousy wrestler, Mickey Rourke could possibly have portrayed a gay politician. I can answer your last question with more confidence .Mickey Rourke might in fact be the better actor. If you have any further questions please take an aspirin, go to bed, and write me in the morning.
  112. A C from Albertario, Canada writes:

    K. M. writes: Have I seen MILK ? No, not yet

    Well, you're one hell of a critic then. Able to proclaim that Rourke was robbed without having seen the acting performance by the winner. And how dare one question the opinion of a free newspaper or the National Post on acting. What was I thinking.

    Anyway, be sure to tell us what other things you've not seen nor read nor heard about, but about which you feel abso-posi-lutely certain. After all your opinion is all that much more validated by the fact that you boast of your ignorance of something in order to further reaffirm the certainty of your blind prejudice.

    Go ahead, give us another review. If anything, it'll be worth a laugh.

    By the way, last time I checked, Liberia was in Africa. But why would you need to consult an atlas? You're obviously quite the scholar.

    .
  113. A C from Albertario, Canada writes:

    Brian Pelican writes: what is so hard about writing correct English these days. What the hell kind of impression are you passing down to your kids?

    Actually, Brian. The proper form of your question is: "what is so hard about writing English correctly? One can write in correct English (like one can write in French), and one can correct one's English. However, one cannot, properly speaking, write correct English.

    Further, one does not pass down impressions. One makes or receives an impression.

    Nonetheless, your point is well-taken.

    Well written English is hard to find on a commentary board such as this one, but then again it's a freakin' commentary board so get the hell over it: who cares?

    .
  114. Gord Tolton from Canada writes: Good show. But why does anybody give Bill Maher a soapbox for his hateful bile? Hope he's prepared to meet his "silly God".
  115. K. M. from Canada writes: AC/DC ALTA. I still think you need rest and relaxation. Thank you Dude, FYI I posted above that I liked Slum Dog very much ,as it opened my eyes to a part of the world that I really don't know much about, and although it was a riveting Fairy Tale it also did illustrate poverty and related issues. I thought Frost Nixon was a great portrayal of a damaged President who was kind of a wounded Modern Day Cesare struggling in the end to regain his name , it was in a word Sad. I liked the British actor who gave a charming portrayal of David Frost ( you might want to take note of the scene where the US journos are freaking out cuz Frost isn't crucifying Nixon and think he just wants to party ,he explains it's My Birthday Party!) He is quite funny off camera as well . He was brilliant as Tony Blair as well. Just so you know I don't really place my complete trust in movie reviews , but there was a Titanic number reinforcing Rourke's role & my view and other critics, where as I did not see that kind of support for Penn's portrayal . Just saying...Rourke Fan Forever Dude!
  116. G Prevost from Ottawa, Canada writes: Just reading today's issue of the Globe and Mail (Feb 23, 2009). It is interesting to note that Sean Penn was not mentionned, either on the front page or the page A7 article about the Oscars. Why does our national newspaper not find it important enough to herald the award for a role so pivotal in gay history? I guess we still don't merit the recognition!
    (You did briefly mention the Best Screenplay award.) We should not have to go to the website to read the full story.
  117. Carl Hansen from Canada writes: I hate the TV show so why would I want to see the movie?
  118. Carl Hansen from Canada writes: guy tozer from Saskatoon, Canada writes: The Nascar race was pretty decent.

    The NASCAR race featured more gays than the Oscars. And the race was gayer.

    Me, I watched Anne Hathaway.
  119. Carl Hansen from Canada writes: The most gay man in Britain said it best when he said the point of being gay is that you don't get married. I forget his name but he is considered the, lover of all lovers.
  120. DDB 9000 from Ithaca, NY, United States writes: Edward Carson from Brampton rightly said...

    "Um, just because a movie has Indian actors and is placed in India doesn't make it Bollywood. British director, British production company, and even the lead actor was British raised."

    I will add to that the fact that some films in India are made outside the Bollywood system, just as some American films are made outside the Hollywood system. And I guess some Canadian films are made outside the Tollywood, Vollywood, and Quollywood systems too.

    The actress Frieda Pinto even made some comment about being glad to not have to do a Bollywood film or something like that (couldn't find the exact quote).

    Anyway, no matter what you call it, it's a fine film, and the award fro Danny Boyle is long overdue - I think he should have won some kind of award for "Sunshine" also, but I know I'm definitely in the minority about that...
  121. Sooty Harry from Toronto, Canada writes: Bollywood is the superpower of moviedom.

    And Slumdog is only the beginning.

    You will see lots of good movies from Bollywood.
  122. F E from ottawa, Canada writes: I thought it was one of the best in years, Hugh Jackman was superb!
  123. O Canada from Canada writes: Hey J. K. GALBRAITH from Canada, never mind trying to reason with Old Timer - he knows everything, don't you know?

    He kind of proved my point with his rant but I don't think he'll get the irony...
  124. Sam Harris from Nova Scotia, United States writes: It was director Boyle himself who said Telluride lead to Slumdog's distribution, not Toronto.
    Juno was also picked up because of the Colorado festival.
  125. Andrew Manavian from Toronto, Canada writes: My Indian colleagues were talking about this movie for months...I checked it out last week, and sure glad that I did. As a concept, the usual rags-to-riches cliche, but what makes this special is the vibrant energy and color, plus the "exotic-ness". This is a movie that starts out grim and depressing, and elevates the viewers involvement, and gets more positive, as the movie progresses.

    Did some research on Indian Oscar winners, found Satyajit Ray for 1992 Lifetime Achievement, and Bhanu Athaiya for Costume Design (Gandhi, 1982).

    Don't know about Satyajit Ray, but Gandhi was another British-Indian movie.
  126. Ashley Couper from Canada writes: The fact that no-one understands any of your messages, doesnt mean youre an artist.
    We think the only award that Journal Boy should have come close to winning is the award for BEST POST-BREAk-UP MAKEOVER.
    Aaron is exploring his more sensitive side through tight jeans, faux-hawks, and his newly aquired cellphone with all 3 text messages from his mother.
    We here, COMMEND you Aaron for setting aside this special time to humiliate yourself in public.
    Were all refreshed and challenged by your unique point of view.
    Write THAT in your Diary.
  127. aaron gemmell from Canada writes: TO the SS girls at Fort Garry branch: Wow, that was well-written, which one of the people in the offices helped you guys write that? Good thing they don`t make you take any kind of geography test to get an account and be able to post comments. Did you guys understand that?
    I resent the comment about about tight jeans, I have never, and never will wear nut-huggers. The faux-hawk has been delayed because the hair-dresser cancelled the appointment. Another woman dodging me.
    I was trying to think of something witty to say about the cell-phone thing, then realized, I got nothing.
    I would like to continue trading barbs with you guys, but after reading your comments I have some pressing issues I must write in my journal before I break down in tears.
  128. john smith from Canada writes: M K S from Toronto that is exactly what this movie is. And Paul, Bytown although I never thought of it that way I must agree with you 100%

    I mean Bollywood has been around since the 1920’s if not longer, they have had some really great movies in the 60&8217;s, 70&8217;s and 80&8217;s, they have had some really great talents that ended around the early 90&8217;s, (Actors)

    Never not once have they been recognized in Hollywood, let alone rewarded

    Am I supposed to believe that this movie was an exception, am I supposed to believe that politics had nothing to do with it?

    I am sorry but I am not that stupid and if the rest of the world wants to believe that this crappy, average Indian movie was anything out of the ordinary Bollywood movie, they need a reality check.

    Bollywood has exceptional cinematography and talent, but their plots are always the same; average and childish.
  129. john smith from Canada writes: really great movies in the 60&8217;s, 70&8217;s and 80&8217;s, they have had some really great talents that ended around the early 90&8217;s, (Actors)

    i meant 60's 70's 80's and 90's
    WTF?
  130. DDB 9000 from Ithaca, NY, United States writes:
    Andrew Manavian (and others):

    Satyajit Ray was a great Indian director and screenwriter usually considered one the best filmmakers ever, not just in India, but worldwide. He is well-known for his 'Apu Trilogy', 3 early films all featuring the same character named Apu (and before any joker out there asks, yes, his name really was the inspiration for The Simpsons' Apu). Just go to IMDB or any other worthwhile film site and read up on Ray (a very non-Bollywood person, by the way)...
  131. joseph Cheng from Toronto, Canada writes: Great movie! But come to think of it. How come those left-wing do-gooders in Hollywood and those here in Canada did not protest against the use of child labour in this movie? Obviously, the youngsters appearing in this movie are as young as 10 or younger!

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