Crystal and Oscar

Let’s talk about something lighter. The dreary impeachment trial is ongoing, and I believe the authorities have enough evidence to pin those responsible for the death of Marvin Reglos, an apparent victim of a brutal fraternity initiation rite, or hazing as it is more criminally known.

The 84th Academy Awards also more famously known as the Oscars, pushed through last Monday morning, Manila time. I’m a fan of the movies, so naturally, I wanted to see the show albeit I had to wait for the primetime replay as I always have a full plate in the morning. My interest was even more generated by the return of eight- time Oscar host, Billy Crystal, who I always thought had one of the best wit and delivery of most comics. I have followed his career since his portrayal of a gay Jodie Dallas in “Soap,” which also spawned the careers of the likes of Richard Mulligan and Robert Gulliaume. His adlibs during the Oscars always had me in stitches. His trademark opening segment for the same where he parodies the best picture nominees in a montage and places himself as a character in certain scenes is always something to watch. A full production on its own. The kissing scene with George Clooney was epic! To sum it up, the Academy Awards is in itself, entertaining.

So after a hard day’s work, I was excited to catch the replay of the show, to see how Billy would carry the show after an eight- year absence. True to form, his trademarks were all done – the opening scene, the adlibs, the jokes – but I have to say that although in my opinion he did do a good job, he has shown his age. Or maybe he was just out of practice. Or maybe I was expecting too much. I wasn’t in stitches like before. Maybe it’s me. But I just wasn’t thrown into laughter like before. In fact the whole show, having its highest viewership in years, thanks to the hype of Crystal’s return, was still pale in comparison to past Oscars. Again, maybe it’s me.

Another segment was the “In Memoriam”, where I usually end up in tears, seeing actors whom I already know pass away. But this year was just different. I don’t know why, it was just different. Maybe it was how it was presented, using mainly stills. Maybe it was the music. Maybe because some of those whom I know like Charles Napier, Michael Gough and Bubba Smith were omitted. Well, we can’t have everything.

The show of course had its highs, or should I say lengths, as delivered by Angelina Jolie’s striking leg- out pose while presenting an award! And some over- imaginative mind’s pointing out a wardrobe malfunction on the part of Jennifer Lopez. Some guys just desperately want to see something out of nothing! I guess the global economic woes have affected the show. It was held at the Kodak Theater, or should I say former Kodak Theater where Crystal himself takes a swipe at by calling it the Chapter 11 Theater! That was painfully funny. As to whether Billy would return next year for another hosting at the Oscars, we will have to await the jury’s verdict on that, you honor.

Perhaps a black and white, silent Oscars show just might be next year’s ticket!