DG's Oscar Roundup

This was the weekend to catch up on all those Oscar movies I missed.  So, without further ado!


Toy Story 3
I actually watched the entire franchise in one go, since Jadek hadn't watched them yet.  The third movie is miles better, and not just in terms of the technology (which is a given) but also in terms of a maturity in thematic storytelling.  That scene with Andy and Bonnie?  I wanted to go and hug all my toys!  It was definitely a cute movie.  I am still a little flabbergasted that this got an Oscar nod and something like Never Let Me Go was passed over, but it is the highest grossing animated movie of all time, so there's that.  It was solid, but I would never have watched it were it not for the Oscars.  3.5 out 5 stars.

The Kids Are All Right
I was worried that this was one of those movie that was being given a lot of credit due to it being a "lesbian" movie.  I'm happy to type that the whole lesbian thing is just a part of the story and doesn't seem to takeover the whole movie.  In fact, this was just a really good story, full of complicated emotions, complex characters and a great script.  I'm not sure if Annette Bening really needs to be in the Best Actress category (and I certainly don't think she should be winning) as I thought her portrayal was a bit weepy.  Almost like she was trying to soften up Nic and could only do so through tears.  4 out of 5 stars.

Winter's Bone
Wow, now here is a seriously under-rated movie.  I was on-edge (where the  hell IS Jessup?) and had this knot in my stomach the entire time.  And Jennifer Lawrence!  Where did she come from?  She's like young Renee Zellweger, but not annoying and can act!  Also: John Hawkes.  I had no idea he was in this movie, and I've loved him since Deadwood.  He is his usual amazing self.  He could give Christian Bale a run for his money.  Seriously, great film: 4.5 out of 5 stars.

***

Bonus Content: Never Let Me Go
Why didn't this amazing movie get nominated for Best Picture?  It was so well done, with great acting, pacing, directing and scripting.  I blame the Oscars' inherent bias against Sci-Fi, though I would barely consider it as such.  And while Inception made it in, I think it's mostly due to its box office gross earnings.  Anyway: 4.5 out of 5 stars.