Likely the night’s biggest surprises came with The Pianist’s two wins. Adrien Brody was almost always placed last on prediction lists. Whether it was his newcomer status, his age or the movie’s topic, every critic had a reason why he wouldn’t win. Yet there he was, kissing Halle Berry and giving his support to the troops, accepting his Oscar for the Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role.
Then the audience was brought to their feet – which itself has been a topic of debate – as they presented the Best Director Oscar to Roman Polanski. For those who have seen this movie, and the others directed by the nominees, this wasn’t as debatable as some of the other surprising wins. Yet the moral issues behind the award and why its winner was unable to attend the Awards were another issue altogether.
Nicole Kidman’s win “by a nose” was not as shocking to the audience as it apparently was to her. But Renee Zellweger, winner of both the Screen Actors Guild and Golden Globe awards for Best Actress, was the obvious front runner for the Oscar.
Other notable moments were the restraint shown by Susan Sarandon and Dustin Hoffman and the unrestraint shown by Michael Moore.
And of course, we were all pleasantly surprised that Catherine Zeta-Jones made it through the evening without going into labor.
A few memorable quotes from the evening:
"You probably noticed there was no fancy red carpet tonight. Well, that will send them a message!" –Host Steve Martin
"The Oscars are being broadcast for the first time in high-definition television. So, I'd like to say big 'hello' to the three guys watching at Circuit City!" –Host Steve Martin
"In light of all the troubles in this world, I wish us all peace." – Chris Cooper
"My hormones are just too way out of control to be dealing with this." –Catherine Zeta-Jones
"It was so sweet backstage. The teamsters are helping Michael Moore into the trunk of his limo." –Host Steve Martin
"Always a bridesmaid, never a bride, my foot!" –Peter O’Toole
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