Jon Caramanica
I was prepared for the Whitest Oscars Ever, and by extension, the Least Political Oscars Ever. But kudos to the winners who used their platforms to speak about mass incarceration, wage equality, immigration reform, and so much more.
Melena Ryzik
I wish “Boyhood” had made a better showing; as a film-making achievement it had both sensitivity and guts. But I agree, Jon, the winners did their part to show some of both on stage tonight. Also is it the first time someone has done a shout-out to their dog?
Jon Caramanica
Do you think “Boyhood” was ultimately punished for being too subtle? I think it’s maybe because the story threads felt loose.
Melena Ryzik
Well, who knows, really. I also think Academy members don’t like to be reminded of their mortality, and “Boyhood” was of course a meditation on time.
Jon Caramanica
Sure, but “The Tree of Life” it wasn’t!
Melena Ryzik
What did you think of the show overall?
Jon Caramanica
I think we’ve officially seen the outer limit of NPH’s gifts, or at least the outer limit of his ability to overcome soft writing. He couldn’t rescue this thing, which, given that other people are doing great things with hosting, is going to taint him.
Melena Ryzik
I felt like he was building to the underwear moment and then it was all steam-less from there. But then again, I’m not really worried about Neil Patrick Harris’s career. Nor about anyone else’s who was featured on a, what, nearly four-hour display of self-congratulations.
Jon Caramanica
You’re right. The only person whose career I’m now truly worried about is the orchestra director, who decided at some point to nullify the Oscars rules and just not play people off.
Melena Ryzik
Let’s wait to see what the ratings data says. He could be in line for a raise next year. (Hat tip: Patricia Arquette.)
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