Looks like we are in for a vintage year
A second viewing of No Country For Old Men confirms my opinion that it’s the Coen brothers‘ best film to date. There Will Be Blood is a robust and intricate epic that makes room (arguably too much room) for a powerhouse performance from Daniel Day-Lewis. Elsewhere, Michael Clayton proved a solid, intelligent legal drama, while Juno is a delight. The sole fly in the ointment is the presence of Atonement, presumably at the expense of the terrific Sweeney Todd.This year’s nominations confound the age-old prejudice that the Oscars, the biggest film awards, are also the most conservative. I’ve lost count of the number of articles saying Atonement was a sure-fire Oscar winner because it ticked all the tried-and-tested boxes (Costumes! Forbidden love! Cut-glass British accents!). The Academy seems to be looking to more challenging fare.Of course, all this may change come February 24. Viggo Mortensen might shockingly scoop best actor for Eastern Promises, and Cate Blanchett could walk away with the best actress award for her pantomime turn in Elizabeth. In the meantime, we’ll keep our fingers crossed that commonsense prevails.
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