Did I mention the fucking Oscar Nominations?

I am always grateful that the Oscars nominate little known films because it always leads to wider theatrical distribution or an early stateside DVD release. Two things that remain constant with the Oscars (while I'm on the topic constants):

• While David Cronenberg will always be appreciated in France, England and his native Canada, he will always be screwed over come Oscar time. His previous A History of Violence was on every top 10 list in 2005. This year his newest film Eastern Promises manages to get a single nomination (and very well deserved) for Viggo Mortensen. Nothing more. There was no mention of Howard Shore's subtle but majestic score; no mention of cinematography, editing or even a nod to often-shoe-in Naomi Watts. Original screenplay? Nope. Anyway, I waste my hand with all of this.
• The Oscars really despise someone like Todd Haynes (Velvet Goldmine, Safe, etc.). He directed the YEAR'S BEST FILM (I'm Not There) and created a most original masterwork of Bob Dylan's life (based on the life and personalities of Bob Dylan!). I don't understand how a film this beautiful (different film types, hallucinagenic effects, bold imaginative visuals, David Cross as Allen Ginsberg and GREAT music) completely misses the boat when it comes time to honor great films. I suppose Haynes will have to wait for England or France to award him with the recognition he truly deserves.

On the plus side, the SECOND BEST FILM OF THE YEAR, No Country for Old Men, is nominated several times, including best picture. But since There Will Be Blood is also running against it, they may give it to another film altogether. Or if they give it to There Will Be Blood (deservedly so, I imagine) we may get a film that will win everything (like Lord of the Rings, parts 432 thru 757).
Who will win best supporting actor? Not Javier Bardem in No Country for Old Men, but Hal Holbrook in Into the Wild. Why? Because he will probably die this year.
Those are the rules.