I love movies. I’ve probably spent more time in my life watching movies than doing any other activity except sleeping. And I’ve always loved the Academy Awards. As jaded as you might be in this crazy world we live in, the Oscars are still an event, unparalleled anywhere. There are many other film awards - Golden Globes, SAG Awards, BAFTAs, Cannes, etc. but none are or ever will be the Oscars.
In the past few years the Oscars have lost their lustre. The dresses, films & hosts were unmemorable. There were few truly exciting moments and actually I didn’t care who won. But this year – finally - things changed. With new blood at the helm – Hugh Jackman was born to wear a tuxedo – there was a much needed infusion of fabulosity at the Oscars once again. Finally, a return to old Hollywood glamour. A lot of gorgeous gowns, diamond jewelry & up-dos. The way the Oscars should be! And as usual, some got it right and some got it very wrong. But what’s really interesting is that the new generation is getting it much “righter” than most of the veterans.
In my humble opinion, the winner hands down was Anne Hathaway in Armani Prive. Classic silver beading, strapless, fitted, hair up, simple makeup and red lip – perfect. Second place goes to Natalie Portman for making bright pink work. I was proud of Angleina Jolie for finally looking like she cared about the event she was at – again classic simple black strapless Elie Saab, flowing hair, with statement making chunky emeralds on her ears and hand. And she actually smiled a few times! Last but never least – I give the eternally stunning Penelope Cruz extra credit for choosing vintage Pierre Balmain. I appreciate when someone takes a chance and does something really different, and of course she looked gorgeous.
Relatively unknown actresses like Viola Davis and Taraji P. Henson were flawless. So – what is wrong with some of the older pros? Marissa Tomei is one of the most prolific actors ever with a killer body and she always looks like she just threw herself together. She tried really hard this year in light grey Versace but it was just too much for her, especially because she hardly had any makeup on. And when you’re wearing Versace, the rock star of fashion, leave your hair down! And what are we going to do about Meryl Streep? How is it possible that the greatest actress of our generation can’t find a decent dress – ever?! Does she even use a stylist? She brought her daughter to the awards and they chose to wear grey drab and cocoa brown, and they looked ridiculous standing next to each other. And don’t get me started on Sophia Loren. She was an embarrassment to all Italians, usually known for our unparalleled taste in fashion.
Just a little shout out to the men… Philip Seymour Hoffman – we know you are a brilliant artist but who told you it was okay to wear a skullcap and look bored to death the entire night? Shame on you. And thank you Mickey Rourke for shaking it up in white Jean Paul Gaultier. I personally hope Mickey’s comeback is here to stay – in both fashion and film.
