Why was anyone surprised?
I thought it might be interesting to reflect on what happened with this year’s best picture vote and what it might say about the Academy voter block.
My most vivid memory of the 2006 broadcast wasn’t who won or lost. I was bothered by the horrific decision to play a music bed under the accepting winners. I found it to be as annoying as it was rude. Quite frankly it seems that about 15 minutes of rather boring filler could have been lifted to allow the winners to have their 90 seconds in the spotlight. That was memorable to me; however, it was “Jack’s” reaction after reading the Best Motion Picture winner that was most telling. After he read what was printed inside the envelope he turned his head and said “WOW”. Wow indeed, with all the critical pundits having already bestowed the best film award to “Brokeback Mountain”.
I too felt the same, despite the fact that, to me, “Brokeback” was a slow- moving predictable art fest film. It had great acting and good direction; however, it wasn’t a great film.
Hollywood got it right and everyone gasped at the winner. This should not have been a horse race. “Crash” was a magnificent film, both complex and deep, one with the rare combination of incredible acting, insightful direction, brilliant writing, multifarious cinematography, perfectly paced and placed music, and heart pounding emotions.
It examined the complexity of how we view race relations and interact with each other in today’s society, and accomplished this in a manner that may have never been done so well.
The cast was brilliantly constructed, and their casting is flawless. I found the interaction of the characters well strewn together and the film’s message to be one of hope balanced with a background of sadness. Don Cheadle is simply brilliant in his portrayal of this lawman.
The intersection of these characters is well-timed and does not seem contrived. The subject of race is dealt with straight up truth. There is heartbreak, tragedy, levity, compassion, hope, and frustration. I believe that one cannot help but to evaluate one’s own perspective on the issues brought to the forefront in this grand film.
No one should have been surprised that this film won because it should have won. In the final analysis the Academy voters picked the best film on its merit and not the hype. It certainly doesn’t have any other meaning.
This is a film of value, done just right with the proper balance and pace to keep the viewer interested and challenged. If you have not seen this wonderful movie please put it on your list of MUST SEE films.
