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Remembering Back to the 1990 Oscars

© Nicholas Moreau

He was there to first salute the fighting men in Saudi Arabia, who at the time were embroiled in the Gulf War conflict, which again provided another reminder of Bob Hope's days entertaining the troops in past wars. He continued through some good jokes, particularly when he said "It's great to be here ... I couldn't be here in spirit, so I'm here in person."

Then he introduced a piece of film put together by Chuck Workman, in which Hollywood actors, both young and old, became nostalgic and discussed the first films they ever saw. It is still one of the favorite Oscar film packages, because everybody has such fond memories of their first times they experienced a movie, and it was fascinating to see Hollywood stars and directors discussing their first films with such fond remembrance.

In the film package, it was fascinating to hear Katharine Hepburn talking about John Gilbert and Greta Garbo ... for Michael Douglas, it was Lilly, which he saw 9 times ... Candice Bergen talking about the experience of seeing Snow White ... a very good idea for a film package for the Oscars.

So anyway, back to the Oscars that night ... it was time for the big awards.

Best Leading Actress, in kind of a surprise, went to Kathy Bates for her memorable portrayal of the obsessed fan in Misery. Her acceptance speech was very touching, as she mentioned thanks for her father who had passed away, who she hoped "was watching somewhere."

Jessica Tandy arrived on stage to present Best Actor in a Leading Role, and the winner was Jeremy Irons, for his performance as Claus Von Bulow in the true story Reversal of Fortune.

Finally, it came down to two more Oscars, Director and Picture. The Godfather Part III was unfortunately, not able to duplicate the incredible success of its predecessors at the Oscars ... it received seven nominations but didn't win anything this time.

But it was up for Best Picture, but this was clearly the year for Dances With Wolves. Just earlier, it had been voted as the Best Adapted Screenplay of the year, and screenwriter Michael Blake gave his speech with the help of a real Sioux Indian, Doris Leadercharge, who translated his speech into Sioux, which made for a very interesting acceptance speech.

Up to the final 2 awards, Dances had won five Oscars, including the Adapted Screenplay Oscar, and it was pretty much a foregone conclusion when Best Director when to Kevin Costner for the film. Kevin had fought against the odds to make the film his way, and his hard work and risk were amply rewarded that Oscar night. Costner made a very sincere acceptance speech, especially when he gave thanks to his parents, saying he was so lucky they could both be alive to celebrate this moment together.