I'll skip being lectured by Hollywood, thank you.
1
I think LaLaLand gets all the Oscars for the same reason Adele got all the Grammys; no, not because she's white, but because people want songs and movies to let them escape from the darkness of our present reality, stick to familiar and not-scary themes. Artistry and courage and vision take second place when what we crave is comfort and reassurance which are currently in short supply.
17
Aww, you left out Zootopia. Translated means Mar al Legos, directed by whatsis Bannon. Produced by the same group that brought us Duck Dynasty. It's where Trump and Kellyanne put out the fire in their wigs by pounding each other on top of the head with gold gilded bats. It's great. No sex, though.
18
LaLa Land seems like an alt-musical to me. Sure, the stars are charming and lovely to look at, but the singing and dancing is not. Why are we satisfied with so little???
The American theater is filled with wonderful dancers and singers. If you want to make a musical, go to the source - give a talented, trained performer the chance to be a movie star...like in the olden days.
The American theater is filled with wonderful dancers and singers. If you want to make a musical, go to the source - give a talented, trained performer the chance to be a movie star...like in the olden days.
21
What would better get under our so-called leader's skin than an evening during which his name was never mentioned?
23
All I can say is that I'm so happy Rooney Mara didn't get nominated for "Lion". Her poor family cringes any time she mispronounces her name. Why do they have to suffer so?
2
If as Strawson concluded, metaphysics is the finding of reasons, good, bad or indifferent, for what we believe on instinct, then this column has truly been metaphysical.
2
Moonlight was by far the best movie of the year, but its protagonist is black and gay, so it won't win best picture--no, AMPAS will go for something safe and uncontroversial and apolitical and of course heterosexual--which means La La Land will win Best Picture.
But I have to object to your labeling Arrival as a Kellyanne Conway movie--which is an undeserved insult to a fine movie, my second favorite of the Best Picture nominees. One simply cannot imagine Conway doing anything heroic or caring enough to stop an attack on what could be called "illegal immigrants" like the Amy Adams character does in Arrival. There is a word for what Conway is paid to do, but it has nothing to do with universal peace and harmony.
But I have to object to your labeling Arrival as a Kellyanne Conway movie--which is an undeserved insult to a fine movie, my second favorite of the Best Picture nominees. One simply cannot imagine Conway doing anything heroic or caring enough to stop an attack on what could be called "illegal immigrants" like the Amy Adams character does in Arrival. There is a word for what Conway is paid to do, but it has nothing to do with universal peace and harmony.
10
I don't want to take a break.
I want real people to stand up to what is going on. ( that includes actors ) What is going on is not taking a break, so we shouldn't either.
The press offers free advertising to this administration every single day. ( that is incalculable ) So, if a billion people happen to be watching an awards show, then speak up and speak loudly.
Resist.
I want real people to stand up to what is going on. ( that includes actors ) What is going on is not taking a break, so we shouldn't either.
The press offers free advertising to this administration every single day. ( that is incalculable ) So, if a billion people happen to be watching an awards show, then speak up and speak loudly.
Resist.
27
"Hidden Figures" deserve every award for which it is nominated. La La Land for me, isn't even average. I have an uncomfortable hunch that the attention given to his hyped up film must be political and some backroom deal occurred. So Trump loves his deals and enjoys a fantasy existence; therefore, here we are-the perfect Trump connection.
Hazel Roslyn Feldman
Manhattan 10009
212-254-9112
2-21/17
Hazel Roslyn Feldman
Manhattan 10009
212-254-9112
2-21/17
4
"Frank: Yeah, “Fences” was so clearly a stage production in cinematic drag, talky and inert in a way that rarely works onscreen."
Wow! What movie did this guy see? Oh, right, film today means special effects, fast cuts, and easy, way easy, on intelligent and moving dialogue.
Wow! What movie did this guy see? Oh, right, film today means special effects, fast cuts, and easy, way easy, on intelligent and moving dialogue.
4
I love the movies. For two hours I get to allow my mind to wander into the land of imagination. I beg them not to turn the Oscars into a political slugfest.
2
OMG. I am horrified by the Trump presidency, but hey, give it a rest here.
There's no lack of Trump coverage since he's outrageous on a global scale constantly, and it's dismaying enough to read all that. It would be good to have a break when it's not required reporting.
There's no lack of Trump coverage since he's outrageous on a global scale constantly, and it's dismaying enough to read all that. It would be good to have a break when it's not required reporting.
3
The Oscars are a perfect Donald Trump stand-in. Fake gold statuettes awarded to someone who wins a voter-restricted low-information-voter popularity contest. Shallow reasons for choices, shallow speeches. Splashy, over-the-top boring, tasteless productions.
And the winners? Maybe a 50/50 chance (or more) that 10 or 20 years from now (and more) people say "WHAT were the voters thinking?!?!?" seeing some dated piece of drudge having beaten out a classic. Who remembers that "How Green Was My Valley" beat out arguably the greatest film of all time "Citizen Kane"? Who actually remembers or has seen "How Green Was My Valley"? Or that "The Greatest Show on Earth" beat "High Noon"?
A tasteless, ignorant, blowhard and miserable manager beat the best prepared and most talented candidate the nation has ever seen.
What says "Trump" better than that?
And the winners? Maybe a 50/50 chance (or more) that 10 or 20 years from now (and more) people say "WHAT were the voters thinking?!?!?" seeing some dated piece of drudge having beaten out a classic. Who remembers that "How Green Was My Valley" beat out arguably the greatest film of all time "Citizen Kane"? Who actually remembers or has seen "How Green Was My Valley"? Or that "The Greatest Show on Earth" beat "High Noon"?
A tasteless, ignorant, blowhard and miserable manager beat the best prepared and most talented candidate the nation has ever seen.
What says "Trump" better than that?
17
Trying to compare Oscar picks to presidential politics is as relevant as phrenology is to psychology. The only politic that counts at Oscar time is an inner-Hollywood tradition of face saving and job hunting. After spending 22 years as a film and television literary agent Trump is not a mystery. He's thug who throws bad faith deals around knowing that PT Barnum was right . . . suckers abound. If, caught Trump settles and still makes out. No film can cauterize the wounds our, "Roy Cohn mentored," gangster in chief makes every time he opens his mouth. Bad faith in business kills contracts and deals. Bad faith in the White House violates our Constitution and renders it moot . . .
17
Moonlight should win best picture, no question about it!
10
"Someday this will be a movie.." Alec Baldwin is great as Trump, but for the movie version I vote Meryl Streep.
9
La La Land is an agent of cheer? Did I see the same movie as everyone else? It was slow moving and had a sad ending. I would recommend it as the opposite of cheer.
2
Enjoy good fiction, but how can these films compare to Breitbart News?
8
I've seen all the nominated Best Whatever. But nothing compares with the dramatic and comedic artistry of our Dear Leader. We should stop using his name -- just as Orthodox Jews (now officially much beloved) refer to God only as "Hashem," which means The Name.
6
we should rattle chains and noisemakers like at the mentioning of Haman during Purim in the biblical story of Esther.
7
It might require the passage of ten or fifteen years before we achieve enough perspective to judge which of the nominees for best picture has the enduring value to merit the gold statuette. If "La La Land" wins, however, we could probably conclude right now that the voters opted for a film with all the substance of cotton candy.
The other films discussed explore key aspects of our society and culture. "Hidden Figures" highlights the challenges to racial and gender equality that still bedevil our society. "Fences" more directly addresses the impact of that declining mobility which embitters the lives of both black and white members of the working class. "Arrival," the other nominated film I have seen, focuses partially on our tendency to allow fear to overwhelm reason, a topic of particular relevance in the age of Trump.
Depending on how America fares over the next four to eight years, any or all the films Gail and Frank discuss could achieve enduring significance. In the worst case scenario, however, we might have to resurrect one of the "Nightmare on Elm Street" movies and pronounce it the representative cinematic achievement of the era.
The other films discussed explore key aspects of our society and culture. "Hidden Figures" highlights the challenges to racial and gender equality that still bedevil our society. "Fences" more directly addresses the impact of that declining mobility which embitters the lives of both black and white members of the working class. "Arrival," the other nominated film I have seen, focuses partially on our tendency to allow fear to overwhelm reason, a topic of particular relevance in the age of Trump.
Depending on how America fares over the next four to eight years, any or all the films Gail and Frank discuss could achieve enduring significance. In the worst case scenario, however, we might have to resurrect one of the "Nightmare on Elm Street" movies and pronounce it the representative cinematic achievement of the era.
2
Frank, I have The Trump picture in production now,it's a musical, and it's going to be barf-o! Casting's hush hush, of course, but you're gonna love it: "Believe Me!".
a guaranteed shoo-in for best hair and makeup, too.
a guaranteed shoo-in for best hair and makeup, too.
7
The actors should not give the Crazy Man the thing he craves most -- attention. They should leave out the politics and graciously thank all those who assisted. I know they are passionate but put that where it matters. That would be the defeat of this monstrosity and removal from our daily lives. As for movies LaLa will probably win but Moonlight shines bright.
4
Movies have replaced religion as the opiate of the masses.
2
"Movies have replaced religion as the opiate of the masses."
And they say progress is dead.
And they say progress is dead.
1
As hard as it is to make predictions about anything these days, I bet that the choices for winner in each category turn political and root for the under-voiced: immigrants, minorities or the disabled (Florence Foster Jenkins). The Oscar plate is so full of great performances and well-crafted cinema that the political spin will not be regretted. Anyone for @oscarssoproud?
I love movies. I love the Oscars as a celebration of movies. The Oscar Award Shows I like the best are the ones that stay focused on movies. Point is, I am as freaked out and concerned about Trump as anyone, but let's not even treat him as an afterthought when it comes to the Oscars. Don't mention or even think about him at all. And what better way of poking a hole in that all consuming ego?
1
If they wanted to talk politics and the Oscars the writers should have brought up the documentary movie "4.1 Miles" which is up for an Oscar and was first featured here in the NY Times.
I think it should be mandatory viewing for our Senators and Representatives, but then again; I felt the Lorax should have been mandatory reading for them as well.
If you haven't seen 4.1 Miles than take 20 minutes and do so. It's free. I never share pages on my Facebook page but I shared that one and it got so few likes compared to my own writing, that I shared it a second time when it was nominated... Same result...
To be fair to Collins and Bruni, this was a humorous piece; witty and a break from the world that surrounds us. And there is no humor to be found in 4.1 Miles. Bravery and determination in the face of a hopelessness... Enjoy...
I think it should be mandatory viewing for our Senators and Representatives, but then again; I felt the Lorax should have been mandatory reading for them as well.
If you haven't seen 4.1 Miles than take 20 minutes and do so. It's free. I never share pages on my Facebook page but I shared that one and it got so few likes compared to my own writing, that I shared it a second time when it was nominated... Same result...
To be fair to Collins and Bruni, this was a humorous piece; witty and a break from the world that surrounds us. And there is no humor to be found in 4.1 Miles. Bravery and determination in the face of a hopelessness... Enjoy...
7
Thanks Bill, I totally agree. 4.1 Miles is a must for everyone to view.
3
Yes someday "trump" will be a movie, a prison flick.
4
Purely anecdotal (I do not speak for black people - and no, President Trump, contrary to what you implied at your press conference, we don't all know each other): It has been striking to me to note that every single black person I know that has seen "Moonlight", including me, did not like it at all or thought it was "OK but not great".
Yet virtually every black person I know - again, not all black people, so anecdotal - loved or really liked "Hidden Figures" - and that includes liking the great job Kevin Costner did in the movie. (Kevin Costner is cool with me. He also did a movie that is very popular with some black people called "Black Or White" in 2014, about a white man battling for custody of his biracial granddaughter, whom he had help raise.)
My guess is that "Moonlight" may win the awards but "Hidden Figures" is the movie that will live on - and be played again and again for younger people. P.S. The young actor in "Moonlight", Alex Hibbert, seems like he has a good head on his shoulders. The NYT did a nice profile of him last week: "He’s ‘Little’ in the Film ‘Moonlight,’ but Big on the Dodgeball Court": https://www.nytimes.com/2017/02/11/fashion/moonlight-alex-hibbert-little...
Yet virtually every black person I know - again, not all black people, so anecdotal - loved or really liked "Hidden Figures" - and that includes liking the great job Kevin Costner did in the movie. (Kevin Costner is cool with me. He also did a movie that is very popular with some black people called "Black Or White" in 2014, about a white man battling for custody of his biracial granddaughter, whom he had help raise.)
My guess is that "Moonlight" may win the awards but "Hidden Figures" is the movie that will live on - and be played again and again for younger people. P.S. The young actor in "Moonlight", Alex Hibbert, seems like he has a good head on his shoulders. The NYT did a nice profile of him last week: "He’s ‘Little’ in the Film ‘Moonlight,’ but Big on the Dodgeball Court": https://www.nytimes.com/2017/02/11/fashion/moonlight-alex-hibbert-little...
9
Yea! Two wits and nary a "conservative" faking civility. I was missing Gail and David, but Gail and Frank commiserating across the political divide is just fine.
Never watch and looking at the list of movies this year makes me want to turn off the tv and read a good book.
1
I will wait and read the results in tomorrow's paper. The best idea would be for all presenters to IGNORE, say NOTHING, about 45. He deserves no more attention which he craves, nasty or not.
3
La La Land had great scenery, special effects, color and was good. Moonlight was the N word throughout and depressing; Manchester was the F letter word throughout and quite depressing, Hacksaw Ridge was history, excellent and truthful, and Hidden Figures was about 3 interesting, honest woman not a Hillary movie. Lion was also great and everyone who sees it agrees.
4
Lay off La La Land. I was thrilled to see a movie that didn't depress the heck of me or have massive arterial sputs. Also I am so sick of all the references to Trump in the New York Times (we know what a menace he is) , you may want to look at your obsession. And I am a left leaning Democrat. If you are going to state how you feel about the Oscars, do so. If every last thing on earth is Trumpian to you I suggest you diversify. You will again be interesting to read.
5
Agent Orange’s new immigration order WILL tear families apart and you’re talking movies?
Well why not! You’re both wealthy, have comfortable jobs and are white citizens born in the USA.
Now I feel as if we are in the middle of an Amazon TV series-“The Man in the High Castle.” And Trump/Pence are Obergruppenfuhrer John Smith.
In this “dystopian world” created by Philip K. Dick of “Blade Runner” fame (originally titled “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?) we see what would happen to the USA of the Nazis had won. Every day brings up more Himmler moves.
I have been terrified since election night. One Jewish commenter said she had been sitting shiva since that night.
I’m not going to movies...I am afraid for my undocumented patients and their families, afraid for my LGBT patients, afraid for a country where Bill Maher “finds common ground” with Milo Yiannopoulos!
Movies? Really guys? The speeches will ONLY be fodder for Twitler and his twitter followers, sycophants will be delighted at every tweet slamming Hollywood.
You two are NOT understanding the depressing, crushing mood of our country.
Well why not! You’re both wealthy, have comfortable jobs and are white citizens born in the USA.
Now I feel as if we are in the middle of an Amazon TV series-“The Man in the High Castle.” And Trump/Pence are Obergruppenfuhrer John Smith.
In this “dystopian world” created by Philip K. Dick of “Blade Runner” fame (originally titled “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?) we see what would happen to the USA of the Nazis had won. Every day brings up more Himmler moves.
I have been terrified since election night. One Jewish commenter said she had been sitting shiva since that night.
I’m not going to movies...I am afraid for my undocumented patients and their families, afraid for my LGBT patients, afraid for a country where Bill Maher “finds common ground” with Milo Yiannopoulos!
Movies? Really guys? The speeches will ONLY be fodder for Twitler and his twitter followers, sycophants will be delighted at every tweet slamming Hollywood.
You two are NOT understanding the depressing, crushing mood of our country.
4
Now here is a conversation that I will read and enjoy. I was so done with subjecting Gail to anyone named Brooks that I almost did my happy dance when I saw her teamed with Frank.
I just hope the editors leave this alone for a while. It will prove entertaining and enlightening. Instead of just teeth gritting irritation like it was with either Brooks.
I just hope the editors leave this alone for a while. It will prove entertaining and enlightening. Instead of just teeth gritting irritation like it was with either Brooks.
12
Although the French are generally respectful cinema audiences I was still struck by the utter silence and rapt attention in the theater when I saw ( in English with French subtitles) "Moonlight." It was a Wednesday afternoon with plenty of junior high and high school students, but never saw a light from a cell phone or heard any chatter - people seemed to be holding their breath a lot of the time during this extraordinary film. When it ended most stayed in their seats while the credits ran and then left very quietly -" sous l'émotion" as they say here.
5
What a pleasure to read this literate, funny, intelligent, and informed conversation between two of the best columnists at the New York Times. The great Gail Collins has (finally) met her equal!
3
Sorry, pinning the whole lot of white folks on these films does not work for me. Right now, respect for these films in and on their own terms is most needed. Not amused nor intellectually flowing with this effort.
I have not yet seen Elle but hope Isabelle Huppert wins. She is the most extraordinary actress ever, tackling some of the most difficult and complicated roles possible. Like Tilda Swinton, she does not shy away from the complex, contradictory and unnerving characters.
I also have not yet seen Hell or High Water which everyone I know who has seen it gives it brilliant ratings. And Jeff Bridges is always superb.
Good movies are still being made but, sadly, most of the films of the past decade or so are garbage, appealing only to a specific target audience and messaging with the eye on profit. Gee, kinda like all of politics.
I also have not yet seen Hell or High Water which everyone I know who has seen it gives it brilliant ratings. And Jeff Bridges is always superb.
Good movies are still being made but, sadly, most of the films of the past decade or so are garbage, appealing only to a specific target audience and messaging with the eye on profit. Gee, kinda like all of politics.
Hillary supporter here. But I'm fruitlessly hoping that the host and winners leave out the politics already. We get it.
As for the films, why is everything political? I was thrilled by La La Land, was mesmerized by Manchester, thought Moonlight was an earnest truthful colossal bore.
It's sad that even movies are now looked at through a 'black and white' lens.
As for the films, why is everything political? I was thrilled by La La Land, was mesmerized by Manchester, thought Moonlight was an earnest truthful colossal bore.
It's sad that even movies are now looked at through a 'black and white' lens.
3
I suppose you think we should go back to the way it use to be when movies were simply looked at through a white lens and that was all. Sorry if inclusion of other members of the human race upsets your complacency, but most of the people in the world are not white and if our arts are to reflect the real world we all live in they must by necessity be looked at through an all encompassing lens that is not only black and white, but inclusive of all the many variations that humans come in. The days that we can pretend that the whole world is straight and white and Christian (or at least that part of the world that matters) is over and I for one am thankful for that. If you are not looking at the arts through a "black and white" lens then you are looking at them, at best, with one eye shut.
2
When my friends from Colombia were refused entry with brand new tourist visas in their hands a week ago, because they were "ineligible" for entry according to U.S. Customs officials in Houston, merely because the agents branded them as people who would overstay their visas, I realized Slimy has already built his wall.
7
Your column is an exercise in hubris, all sound and fury, signifying nothing. I, too, have seen all nine films, and only really liked "Moonlight" and "Hacksaw Ridge," and found "Arrival" somewhat interesting, but implausible, and "La La Land" somewhat diverting and amusing. That said, the platform afforded these people in the film industry should not be politicized. The only people who gleefully look forward to this are the cognoscenti, the hoi polloi, limousine liberals, coastal elites, and the media. Fortunately for us, (and I hardly am undereducated or ill informed), this precisely is the reason that liberals like yourselves lose elections. The last thing I want to hear is Meryl Streep or Susan Sarandon being supercilious, condescending and pedagogical. Please. Oh, yes, I grew up in the East Coast and happen to share your sexual orientation, Frank. Horrors. Right?
2
you lost me at the redundant "the hoi polloi".
Ruth Negga was awesome. And I keep hearing that "Manchester" was so depressing. I seem to remember a rather upbeat ending.
A movie about Trump? Seriously? Well, maybe Alec Baldwin. I still can't look at, or listen to, Trump without seeing Alec.
I haven't seen all the pictures--so many came out and left, before the nominating process. Verizon FIOS has them but for purchase only--a really horrible feature of Verizon FIOS. I mean, who could stand to watch Manchester by the Sea (not seen but heard plenty about) more than once?
Then, there's La La Land, which I did enjoy but best picture? However, I got very impressed in learning Gosling did his own piano work. I hope Hidden Figures gets something, even best picture, which it won't, because I suspect Moonlight (still full pay on FIOS) should, even if it doesn't. Does that make sense? Now I'm sounding like Spicer.
As for "Arrival," ugh, ugh, ugh. I hated it, found it pretentious and that was BEFORE I read the critics saying it was top drawer. Sure: and yes, Kellyanne Conway, of course, since she's as opaque as those creatures.
And, yes, there will be Trump (sounds like a bad imitation of "There will be blood" which was a pretty awful movie, along the lines of our fear-inducing leader.
Happy watching, and please, Hollywood, do not hold back.
I haven't seen all the pictures--so many came out and left, before the nominating process. Verizon FIOS has them but for purchase only--a really horrible feature of Verizon FIOS. I mean, who could stand to watch Manchester by the Sea (not seen but heard plenty about) more than once?
Then, there's La La Land, which I did enjoy but best picture? However, I got very impressed in learning Gosling did his own piano work. I hope Hidden Figures gets something, even best picture, which it won't, because I suspect Moonlight (still full pay on FIOS) should, even if it doesn't. Does that make sense? Now I'm sounding like Spicer.
As for "Arrival," ugh, ugh, ugh. I hated it, found it pretentious and that was BEFORE I read the critics saying it was top drawer. Sure: and yes, Kellyanne Conway, of course, since she's as opaque as those creatures.
And, yes, there will be Trump (sounds like a bad imitation of "There will be blood" which was a pretty awful movie, along the lines of our fear-inducing leader.
Happy watching, and please, Hollywood, do not hold back.
1
I want to amend what I wrote earlier. There could be a Trump movie starring him. Bit it would have to be a horror movie, perhaps something along the lines of the creature from the black lagoon.
4
"creature from the black lagoon"
So that's what 45ish is replacing the swamp with?
So that's what 45ish is replacing the swamp with?
1
How about Hollywood simply calling off the Academy Awards telecast this year. Instead, quickly announce the winners, then show A Man For All Seasons, about someone with a conscience. Very un-trumpian, that Sir Thomas More.
1
Clearly you need to do a little reading about Sir Thomas. Yes, he was a man true to his convictions, but those convictions led him to persecute, torture and execute those he deemed as heretics (otherwise known as Protestants). Before he became a victim he was a victimizer. He was a rigid and narrow mnded man who had no tolerance for any views or beliefs that were not his own and in that he actually does sound a lot like Trump.
4
I go to the movies, I watch TV and I listen to music but I never watch the Oscars, the Emmys or the Grammys.
I have no interest in watching the performers pat themselves and each other on the back. And their political leanings have no impact on my own.
In much the same way, I don't know who my dentist or the chef at my favorite restaurant voted for, and I assume they feel the same about me.
I have no interest in watching the performers pat themselves and each other on the back. And their political leanings have no impact on my own.
In much the same way, I don't know who my dentist or the chef at my favorite restaurant voted for, and I assume they feel the same about me.
2
Yep - pretty much what I expected when the Times jettisoned the conservative counterpoint to the ultra-liberal Collins. Unreadable rubbish.
1
Under normal circumstances this would be a pleasant enough and serious enough infomercial for the movie industry. Leaving all the other horrors aside, to have this conversation when mass deportations are intensifying, people ripped from their homes and off the streets just inches away from them, the smug complacency is hard to take.
In a year or two a feature film or a documentary will be made of these mass deportations. At that point they will discuss whether it is "moving" or "sentimental," "cliche ridden" or "original." Or whether the film about the war in Yemen touched them more "deeply" than the one on mass deportations here. Or will it be the other way around.
In a year or two a feature film or a documentary will be made of these mass deportations. At that point they will discuss whether it is "moving" or "sentimental," "cliche ridden" or "original." Or whether the film about the war in Yemen touched them more "deeply" than the one on mass deportations here. Or will it be the other way around.
5
Fantastic! Gail and Frank: the new Ginger and Fred, without the actual dancing. More, please.
2
If there is ever a Trump movie it will mark the end of time. Or at least the end of democracy and the American Republic. I am beginning to accept the idea that the hard work that James Madison and our forefathers did in 1787 to devise a system of checks and balances was fruitless. The only real check on Trump now is a free press. It is not the Republican Congress. The only sane Republican I can listen to now is John McCain. He is 80 and he is cutting loose in ways that can not please Tea party Republicans. In the past he felt that he had to answer to them but not now. I think he knows that it is unlikely he will want to run again. He recently said that one of the first things dictators do in muzzle the press. He did not say Trump was a would be dictator but we knew what he meant.
1
I haven't watched all the movies mentioned here. But I did watch 'Hidden Figures' and I agree with Gail that it is a Hillary movie. The grit and determination of the lead characters to remain unfazed in the face of adversities are easily comparable to Hillary's personality. Even though I didn't watch 'Arrival', I would imagine any movie that would transport its viewers to a false, imaginary world would be a Kellyanne Conway film. I am not sure if Bruni and Gail have been able to identify the right 'Trump film'. I would assume that would be a Herculean task, even impossible, given the fact that it may be beyond the capability of a film maker to come up with the character of the leader of the most powerful country in the world , who is as rash, negligent, autocratic, jingoistic, misleading, and full of apathy. Not just in 2017, but even in the future.
2
A Trump film? That's easy. Lion. Because Trump is a huge Lion of a man. A real alpha male. mega-leader of the pride, silver-back of the silver-backs. I've never seen the movie, but believe you me.
Please pair up Collins and Bruni more often. This was delightful. Better than when one guy she conversed with compared Medicaid, which saves lives, with giving someone 100 dollars and a kitten. Collins and Bruni are not only funny (which we need now) but they have hearts.
7
I haven't seen all the nominations but I thought Loving was a wonderful and very important film and the actress playing one of the lead roles should get an Oscar. And Moonlight i thought was great as well as Lion.
2
NOW is the time for every entertainer - no matter how large or small, rich or poor - to speak out loudly and often to preserve democracy in America. Any entertainer who doesn't believe they have a role MUST study republican Joseph McCarthy, the hate-anger-fear-war monger who attacked "commie Hollywood" in the 1950s and scared American with LIES, LIES, LIES. Today is simply a repeat act. WE must not let it stand. Anyone who believes in Democracy in America must not let it stand.
Speak out forcefully and often. Protest. Resist. Obstruct. Persist. Only WE can stop the Top 1% Global Financial Elite Robber Baron/ Radical Religion Good Old Boys' Party from acting out their ARCHAIC HIStory. Let's make it OUR story of inclusiveness, social/economic justice and true democracy for ALL Americans.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_McCarthy
Speak out forcefully and often. Protest. Resist. Obstruct. Persist. Only WE can stop the Top 1% Global Financial Elite Robber Baron/ Radical Religion Good Old Boys' Party from acting out their ARCHAIC HIStory. Let's make it OUR story of inclusiveness, social/economic justice and true democracy for ALL Americans.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_McCarthy
13
Aside from keeping score of how many of the speeches at the Oscar awards make reference to our Cartoon-in-Chief, it'll be interesting to see how the current chaotic political environment tracks in future cinematic comments on society's twists and turns.
Maybe somebody should make a movie out of Yeats' The Second Coming -- "the centre cannot hold;/Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world."
Maybe somebody should make a movie out of Yeats' The Second Coming -- "the centre cannot hold;/Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world."
13
Bullseye.
I am not going to watch the Oscars this year. I watched Meryl Streep's speech on the Golden Globes, and applaud her for trying and speaking her mind. However, this weekend, a Meryl Streep movie that I absolutely loved was on and I couldn't watch it because all I thought about when seeing her was the speech. I could not get into her character. Odd, I know, but true.
You know, I do not like all the name calling. Saying Trump is orange. Imagine if people said Obama was brown. It would be seen as racist. Even though so many of us hate the idea of this Presidency, we should just stick to facts and stop the editorializing on looks. There is enough egregious stuff to report on without going the elementary school playground route. Leave that for the late night comedians. And even their shtick is getting old.
You know, I do not like all the name calling. Saying Trump is orange. Imagine if people said Obama was brown. It would be seen as racist. Even though so many of us hate the idea of this Presidency, we should just stick to facts and stop the editorializing on looks. There is enough egregious stuff to report on without going the elementary school playground route. Leave that for the late night comedians. And even their shtick is getting old.
22
As someone with redheads in the family, I agree.
(Ok, their hair is really orange, not red. But... what's so funny really about that? The hair color joke is dead already. But it appears it's much harder to create humor about substance and policies than to poke fun at others' looks -- hair color, skin tone, etc.)
Divided we fall...
(Ok, their hair is really orange, not red. But... what's so funny really about that? The hair color joke is dead already. But it appears it's much harder to create humor about substance and policies than to poke fun at others' looks -- hair color, skin tone, etc.)
Divided we fall...
Pres. Trump chooses his skin tone. Pres. Obama was born with his. That's a little bit different.
If comedians have to refrain from making comments about looks, then Pres. Trump should too.
If comedians have to refrain from making comments about looks, then Pres. Trump should too.
1
Janice Nelson
To state that all should not denigrate Prez Pudgy with insulting language because "no one criticized President Obama for being Brown" suggests that you were somewhere else since 2009. Far away from earth.
I didn't realize that a Moon colony already existed.
To state that all should not denigrate Prez Pudgy with insulting language because "no one criticized President Obama for being Brown" suggests that you were somewhere else since 2009. Far away from earth.
I didn't realize that a Moon colony already existed.
1
This conversation, whether political, comical or simply amicable, is far better than any conversation that Gail has had with a conservative. The Brooks' boys and the raging loon who Gail was paired with were simply liars.
Conversations with conservatives are an exercise in futility. They have an agenda and honest debate is not conducive to it.
Conversations with conservatives are an exercise in futility. They have an agenda and honest debate is not conducive to it.
31
While angrily accusing "liberals" and "progressives" of being narrow minded.
1
I have watched the Oscars every year since I was a child for the entertainment value. I, along with many others in the country will not be watching this year. While the entertainment level suffered in some years, at least it was based on a sincere attempt to entertain. On rare occasions, I would be pretty annoyed when members of the Hollywood Elite abusing this completely inappropriate forum would turn their acceptance speech into a bully pulpit. Most notable was Lynn Redgrave’s anti-Semitic rant against the JDL. Now these speeches are not only becoming commonplace, but are demanded by the tinsel town powerbrokers. I believe that for most people, these rants like Meryl Streep’s at the SAG awards, tend to detract, rather than help their causes. Even more interesting is that they also alienate such large segment of their fans in one fell swoop. Bad business strategy? While the political commentary is the major reason why this show is no longer appealing, I am amazed that La La Land was even nominated for a single award. I have only spoken with one person of many that even enjoyed this movie. The last time this happened is when Chariots of Fire won best picture. There have been plenty of mistakes with choosing the winners and nominees but none more than this year. I can only assume that Hollywood 1%-ers, which must actually dwell in “La La Land” are just rewarding themselves without considering the mediocre talent of the nominees and a missing story line.
6
It was actually Vanessa Redgrave, not her sister Lynn. Lynn was active in supporting Jewish causes. Vanessa certainly was not.
You must be psychic, Veritas 128, to be able to review a show before you've seen it. And you've certainly put 'La La Land' in its place with your unimpeachably balanced poll.
The possibility of a rant from Ms Streep will keep me watching. As for Lynn Redgrave, try a little fact checking.
p.
The possibility of a rant from Ms Streep will keep me watching. As for Lynn Redgrave, try a little fact checking.
p.
Vanessa Redgrave, not Lynn.
OH NO! Say it isn't so! The Trumpkin Pumpkin Monster--he of orange hair and face, whose name must not be uttered--is taking over the Oscars. It's going to be grand when the National Guard barge onto the set wearing cammo and equipped with full military gear. We all know that the Oscars present a direct threat to Homeland Security. The reason? Because the Oscars have not adopted the official Homeland color, that's why! ORANGE!
1
Frank, he could have a documentary made while he IS still president!
4
Would it be Wonderful... to have a trumpistan=free night where we gossiped about the Red Carpet behavior, examined the necklines, waited for a nominee to trip going up the stairs, celebrated the winners and complained about the losses of our favorite nominees. Back in the good old days - 2016.
8
What if no one mentioned 45 at all. Think of it as an oasis, a Trump-free zone. That's an alternative reality I could sink my teeth into.
33
That's probably too much to hope for, but maybe they could all agree to address the issues without ever actually mentioning his name. The thing that Trump craves more than anything is recognition and attention. He doesn't like it when people say bad things about him, but he prefers that to people not talking about him at all. The most important thing is that people are talking about him. If the Oscar telecast came and went without any mention of the Orange Puppet I think his head would explode.
This piece is an entertaining conversation between two stalwarts of The New York Times, Gail Collins and Frank Bruni.
Too bad there was a typo in the very last word. Frank Bruni surely meant to write “president” instead of “present.” Of all people, when talking about Donald Trump, one would never forget the Id.
Too bad there was a typo in the very last word. Frank Bruni surely meant to write “president” instead of “present.” Of all people, when talking about Donald Trump, one would never forget the Id.
9
Also in the last sentence, they mean to say "fearsome," not "fearful." It is the rest of us, not the president, who are fearful.
He is imagining looking back, from the future, on today--"the fearful present." It didn't strike me as a typo; I believe it was intentional and rather poetic. It works either way.
1
Please no more of this kind of chatter. Gail, l enjoy your comments and Frank you too, but together not so much. It 's like mixing chocolate and caviar. Stick with what you do best.
11
This is an administration that only could have had justice done to it by Stanley Kubrick. "Dr. Strange predident?"
Featuring Steve Bannon as the Nazi loving Dr. Strangelove.
Mike Pence as (actual) President Merkin Muffley
Mike Pompeo as General Jack D Ripper
Jeff Sessions as Buck Turgidson
Mike Flynn as Slim Pickens' Major Kong
And Trump as The Bomb
Featuring Steve Bannon as the Nazi loving Dr. Strangelove.
Mike Pence as (actual) President Merkin Muffley
Mike Pompeo as General Jack D Ripper
Jeff Sessions as Buck Turgidson
Mike Flynn as Slim Pickens' Major Kong
And Trump as The Bomb
45
'Dr. Strangelove', a classic black comedy that back in 1964 seemed outrageous doesn't look at all over-the -top now ; nor does another Peter Sellers political satire, 'Being There'. Both films now can be regarded as prescient warnings of things to come : It can happen here.
3
"It can happen here."
Can?
Can?
1
Oscars "ceremony " fun to watch ...lots of eye candy, TMZ on steroids but ultimately worthless self- indulgent, pretty people, talking about themselves.
7
I understand that it is impossible not to discuss the possibility/probability of Trump commenting on and/or supplying topics for comment by Oscar winners; it's inevitable and the conversation of the moment. However, I fear that the coming film event may take on the tone of events set in motion by Mr. Trump (et al) to center himself squarely in the spotlight. I'm becoming just that cynical. In my opinion, the entertainment value of presidential participation might contribte to the sickening of our climate: cultural, aesthetic, ethical, moral, and even the safety of people. How sad this spectacle!
1
Most Undermentioned (Supporting?) Actor: Joel Edgerton in Loving. The man just *disappeared* into his role to the point that you wondered if he was just being his inarticulate Tidewater Virginia mason self and a camera happened to be turned on. Well, the actor is actually Australian! And did not grow up mortaring concrete block! Give the man an award!
5
Love you both but I have seen only Florence Foster Jenkins. Any singer I am assuming Ms. Streep is somewhat a singer to sing off key on purpose takes a lot of talent. She was remarkable in there.
But I loved Simon Helberg as Cosmé McMoon, and just to watch his performance the movie was worth watching for although he was no nominated for an award.
But I loved Simon Helberg as Cosmé McMoon, and just to watch his performance the movie was worth watching for although he was no nominated for an award.
3
The reality is, we are all living now in a movie. Or a reality show. Take your pick.
The normal rules don't apply to anything, anywhere, anymore. Now the "fake news" comes from your daily newspaper and the "real news" comes from Tucker Carlson and Alex Jones.
The leader of the world's most powerful nation is an actor pretending to be himself. He's a glutton for attention and if he doesn't win an Oscar in every category I expect to see his tweets go ballistic. Metaphorically only, I hope.
The normal rules don't apply to anything, anywhere, anymore. Now the "fake news" comes from your daily newspaper and the "real news" comes from Tucker Carlson and Alex Jones.
The leader of the world's most powerful nation is an actor pretending to be himself. He's a glutton for attention and if he doesn't win an Oscar in every category I expect to see his tweets go ballistic. Metaphorically only, I hope.
3
Dear Ms. Collins and Mr. Bruni,
Soooo, I guess the "The Oscars are Coming, the Oscars are Coming". Guess it beats the movie "The Russians are Coming, the Russians are Coming" which, I assume, has transformed from a "comedy" to a "documentary" of our last election.
I have seen none of the films mentioned and always have a problem with the "Academy" giving out awards for "best actor/actress", best "director", best "cinematography" then handing out a "best picture" award to a movie that failed in all the others. Perhaps it had the "best credits"?
I think that evening I'll be doing something much more creative, catching up on sleep.
Soooo, I guess the "The Oscars are Coming, the Oscars are Coming". Guess it beats the movie "The Russians are Coming, the Russians are Coming" which, I assume, has transformed from a "comedy" to a "documentary" of our last election.
I have seen none of the films mentioned and always have a problem with the "Academy" giving out awards for "best actor/actress", best "director", best "cinematography" then handing out a "best picture" award to a movie that failed in all the others. Perhaps it had the "best credits"?
I think that evening I'll be doing something much more creative, catching up on sleep.
2
Me, too!! Its a glorification exercise that they think will enlighten non show biz types. They should have ditched the whole think at Y2K, but of course it's "free"
publicity,
publicity,
It's time for the rest of the world to stop watching US movies or TV stuff. Many of the actors must have voted for Trump.
Blackforest, pay attention. You are wrong. Most likely almost none of the actors voted for Trump. First of all both individual and industry wide, most of Hollywood, including big A-list actors, have spoken out against Trump. Second, take a look at where the industry is located, California, it went decisively for Clinton and officials there are now leading many of the legal and governmental charges against him.
A useful thing for you and the rest of the world to do is inform yourself about the massive and vocal resistance of the American people to Trump (after all, he lost the popular vote), and support that resistance. Be informed!
A useful thing for you and the rest of the world to do is inform yourself about the massive and vocal resistance of the American people to Trump (after all, he lost the popular vote), and support that resistance. Be informed!
3
Speaking of the Hubble Telescope, can we get NASA to use its mega-magnification to try to find the man-parts of Republican members of the Congress?
30
Perhaps the best communication to people watching the Oscars would be for the winners to completely ignore the person currently occupying the White House so we can enjoy the Oscars?
10
Fun conversation. I went on a Oscar binge these last few days and have now seen most of the nominated films including all of the Shorts. I found them all to be good movies. I saw Moonlight and then La La Land and after each I walked away thinking If that gets the Oscar I wouldn't be disappointed. Loving will have more political relevance (as if it doesn't now) after the impeachment, resignation, military coup or whatever and the Pence Theocracy moves to center stage.
9
Just a thought, but could we please lessen the use of # before every made up "witty" phrase or words? I'm tired of the universe being Twitterized and Twitterman Orange in particular. I think most readers of the NYT would rather read and digest their news written by objective journalists, not have it summed up in 140 characters or less with # headline.
15
You know how every insult flung by our new president ends up being some form of projection on his part and how he mocked Senator Schumer for having human emotions by calling him deserving of the best actor award? Trump deserves that gold statue for the reverse, his performance as a president with feelings that have anything to do with the rest of the human race.
4
For those who like to complain that Actors aren't qualified to make political statements, this is surely the year to point out that it will be hard to find one less qualified than the President.
59
Did "Manchester by the Sea" get nominated? That's the only film I could afford to see this year. I've been stashing my spending money in savings for when they cut my Social Security benefits—my sole source of income. Feelings, nothing more than feelings (which they are in short supply of at 1600).
I'm looking forward to Hairpie Don's after-Oscar tweets more than who wins what.
I'm looking forward to Hairpie Don's after-Oscar tweets more than who wins what.
9
"Like some Hubble telescope of commanders in chief."
In all fairness to the Hubble telescope, its lens problem was fixed, and has been sending back to Earth some magnificent and breathtakingly beautiful photographs of the world beyond us.
Our "commander-in-chief", however can't even look beyond his own nose, let alone focus on one thing.
The Hubble deserves an apology!
In all fairness to the Hubble telescope, its lens problem was fixed, and has been sending back to Earth some magnificent and breathtakingly beautiful photographs of the world beyond us.
Our "commander-in-chief", however can't even look beyond his own nose, let alone focus on one thing.
The Hubble deserves an apology!
17
What I'd love to see is the greatest show on earth...anti Hollywood snd democrat demonstrator chanting agsinst and blocking all limo auto routes to the red carpet. Give them a taste of their own vile medicine. What s hoot!
2
Haven't read the Q&A yet. Just wanted to say how thrilled I am that neither Arthur Brooks nor Ben Domenech was included in this conversation. Thanks, Gail!
21
.
Yes. This is important. Audience engagement team, please notify the female Op-Ed columnists?
Ms. Collins, please conduct these conversations with someone who is your rough equal on the page? Of course we all want it to be one of the people you enjoy conversing with. And you seem to think he must be "conservative". That may be a mistake, because we do not live in a world of Norman Podhoretz & Irving Kristol.
Their writing made sense even to people who disagreed.
Now we have John Podhoretz and Bill Kristol.
Have you read their drivel? That's how Brooks, Brooks & Domenich read compared to you.
The main issue is that Ronald Reagan used alternative fact (the nonexistent boy suspended from school for praying, or Gorbachev's authority to tear down a mall, not to mention the Berlin Wall). Conservatives thought that was cool.
Newt Gingrich and Rush Limbaugh went further. Then Dan Quayle won an election despite claiming to be JFK.
Hastert? Criminal. Palin? Knows less about truth than she knows about preventing teen pregnancy. Palin led directly to todays issue-challenged clowns.
They may like reading passionate arguments devoid of logic which rely upon statistical "spinning", but we don't.
Find someone worth reading?
Yes. This is important. Audience engagement team, please notify the female Op-Ed columnists?
Ms. Collins, please conduct these conversations with someone who is your rough equal on the page? Of course we all want it to be one of the people you enjoy conversing with. And you seem to think he must be "conservative". That may be a mistake, because we do not live in a world of Norman Podhoretz & Irving Kristol.
Their writing made sense even to people who disagreed.
Now we have John Podhoretz and Bill Kristol.
Have you read their drivel? That's how Brooks, Brooks & Domenich read compared to you.
The main issue is that Ronald Reagan used alternative fact (the nonexistent boy suspended from school for praying, or Gorbachev's authority to tear down a mall, not to mention the Berlin Wall). Conservatives thought that was cool.
Newt Gingrich and Rush Limbaugh went further. Then Dan Quayle won an election despite claiming to be JFK.
Hastert? Criminal. Palin? Knows less about truth than she knows about preventing teen pregnancy. Palin led directly to todays issue-challenged clowns.
They may like reading passionate arguments devoid of logic which rely upon statistical "spinning", but we don't.
Find someone worth reading?
I don't understand why so many people think that just because someone is in the entertainment industry they have no right to express political views. Are only the poor and middle class and unknown entitled to opinions? American actors, directors, writers, etc. are all allowed to have opinions, just like the rest of us. What difference does it make if they get to be seen on TV and regular people don't? Why does that devalue their opinions? There's no chance that if one of us regular people had the opportunity to spout our opinions on TV we wouldn't use it. I can just see my opinionated, Trump-loving uncle Danny spouting off every time a camera turned his way. Thank God Danny is just an accountant.
25
MsPea, as coastal dwellers, not "real Americans", you and I are not allowed to express our opinions either. We're supposed to just vote and shut up.
3
well, it is worse that the campaign donor class get to have their opinions made into policy by state level and congressional republicans.
1
Actually, we're not even supposed to vote--remember all those Republicans who explained that if only the ballots from New York & California hadn't been counted their leader would have beaten Ms. Clinton in the popular vote, too. (And they meant it not as a counter-factual but as a recommendation.)
No, we're just supposed to shut up, so the Times can do its daily piece on why Trump voters are still angry, and why they believe their man is doing just great, and how they simply can't understand why the rest of us don't feel their pain. After all, they are the salt of the earth, aren't they?
In other words, we, the citizens of the Blue coastal states, who with our taxes, subsidize citizens of the "heartland" Red states (except Texas), should consider ourselves lucky that all those Trump adherents merely scream at us & don't exercise their beloved Second Amendment rights. Of course, it's early yet.
No, we're just supposed to shut up, so the Times can do its daily piece on why Trump voters are still angry, and why they believe their man is doing just great, and how they simply can't understand why the rest of us don't feel their pain. After all, they are the salt of the earth, aren't they?
In other words, we, the citizens of the Blue coastal states, who with our taxes, subsidize citizens of the "heartland" Red states (except Texas), should consider ourselves lucky that all those Trump adherents merely scream at us & don't exercise their beloved Second Amendment rights. Of course, it's early yet.
1
This conversation seems a bit forced. Also, if you are going to equate the current political scene with some Hollywood movie, just pick the most dismal movie.
5
How about, "Plan 9 From Outer Space"?
The problem with Moonlight is its limited showing.
4
The best scene in La La was the opening scene of the dancing in traffic, but what a let down. Can you imagine that film if they'd made it with people who could REALLY DANCE regardless of their color or nationality?
Moonlight is a film like no other, and about men, and about sexuality and the pretense men are forced into in a macho society, and black actors (men and women) created it with their craft. I mean, c'mon, bloody awe inspiring. Trevante Rhodes morphing from the cliche of a muscular drug dealer to this tender, tender, tortured soul in the arms of his one intimate partner. There is NO movie that comes close to that, none.
Please Oscar, let us all inhale deeply with pride when Moonlight gets the award.
Moonlight is a film like no other, and about men, and about sexuality and the pretense men are forced into in a macho society, and black actors (men and women) created it with their craft. I mean, c'mon, bloody awe inspiring. Trevante Rhodes morphing from the cliche of a muscular drug dealer to this tender, tender, tortured soul in the arms of his one intimate partner. There is NO movie that comes close to that, none.
Please Oscar, let us all inhale deeply with pride when Moonlight gets the award.
15
Don't smear Hubble by bringing it into this discussion, Frank. Hubble doesn't do wide; it goes deep. It's an instrument of precision that grants us a profound glimpse into space and time by eliminating most of the background noise.
8
Movies??
Who needs movies? Reality is so much more bizarre and enthralling. Well maybe it's too, unbelievable.
Who needs movies? Reality is so much more bizarre and enthralling. Well maybe it's too, unbelievable.
3
A wonderful and important film not nominated is When Two Worlds Collide. It is a documentary about the struggle over resources in the Peruvian Amazon between government and the indigenous population. It is a movie well worth seeing.
4
The fact that Barry Jenkins the director of "Moonlight", and the author of the play the film was based on, "In the Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue", genius grant recipient, and incoming professor of playwriting at Yale, Tarell Alvin McCraney, grew up just a few blocks from each other, in Miami's Liberty City, is an indelible testament to the untapped, creative potential residing in every minority community in the United States. It italicizes the implicit racism in the disingenuous,stereotypical, portrayal of these communities by the liar-in-chief Donald Trump.
13
Hey, anybody see I Am Not Your Negro? A film that could not be more relevant and heartbreaking about our descent into Trumpistan. A magnificent achievement, written by James Baldwin. Oh wait, I forgot, no one at the New York Times so white has any idea who James Baldwin is... SAD!
4
Actually the NY Times review of I Am Not Your Negro was amazing. Maybe you should read it before you make snarky comments; also it is nominated in the Best Documentary category, and the conversation was about the Best Picture nominees.
I Am Not Your Negro is a remarkable movie. It would be great if more people would see it; unfortunately your remark is not likely to help people expand their attitude and go to such a tough, beautiful documentary.
I Am Not Your Negro is a remarkable movie. It would be great if more people would see it; unfortunately your remark is not likely to help people expand their attitude and go to such a tough, beautiful documentary.
5
Trump will be a movie, like Mr. Bruni says, if we survive!
@ Baxter
Have to not be made till about 25 to 50 years from now. No one alive today will want to see it - I've had more than I can take NOW.
Have to not be made till about 25 to 50 years from now. No one alive today will want to see it - I've had more than I can take NOW.
3
A wonderful diversion, and Mr. Bruni should do a few more conversations with you, Gail, as he completely embraced your style and wit in his own stylish and witty way! Spot on.
3
The fact that Barry Jenkins the director of "Moonlight", and the author of the play the film was based on, "In Moonlight Black Boys Turn Blue", genius grant recipient, and incoming professor of playwriting at Yale, Tarell Alvin McCraney, grew up just a few blocks from each other, in Miami's Liberty City, is an indelible testament to the untapped, creative potential residing in every minority community in the United States. It italicizes the implicit racism in the disingenuous,stereotypical, portrayal of these communities by the liar-in-chief Donald Trump.
4
And the Oscar goes to....the political horror story "Trumpocalypse Now"... co-directed by Paul Manafort and Roger Stone, produced by Blackstone CEO Steve Schwarzman, Grim Reaper Steven Bannon and the Party of Stupid, and co-written by Vladimir Putin, Jim Comey, Mitch McConnell and the Crosscheck voter purge and deregistration system, and starring Donald Trump as the new national pumpkin, Pastor Mike Pence as America's premier pretend-Christian, and Kellyanne Conway in her breakout performance as the girl who could never, ever tell the truth.
It's the titillating story of a loudmouth lecherous Lothario born with a golden spoon in his mouth who comes out of his gilded cocoon preaching White Spite and his patented Con-Man's Corn Syrup to millions of confused, addled and intellectually starved Americans that you can have everything for nothing if you just wave the flag, suspend your disbelief and let a serial Know Nothing incompetent, bankrupter, prevaricator, propagandizer and Prosperity Gospel priest get away with the greatest consumer fraud in American history.
The plot - whereby a majority of Americans support the boring and competent competitor to lead the nation is disrupted by a slave-era quirk in America's kleptocracy that allows a universally acclaimed nincompoop to assume ultimate power over 320 million Americans - is a brilliant dramatization about the wisdom of Napoléon Bonaparte's famous quote:
“In politics, stupidity is not a handicap.”
It's an American classic.
It's the titillating story of a loudmouth lecherous Lothario born with a golden spoon in his mouth who comes out of his gilded cocoon preaching White Spite and his patented Con-Man's Corn Syrup to millions of confused, addled and intellectually starved Americans that you can have everything for nothing if you just wave the flag, suspend your disbelief and let a serial Know Nothing incompetent, bankrupter, prevaricator, propagandizer and Prosperity Gospel priest get away with the greatest consumer fraud in American history.
The plot - whereby a majority of Americans support the boring and competent competitor to lead the nation is disrupted by a slave-era quirk in America's kleptocracy that allows a universally acclaimed nincompoop to assume ultimate power over 320 million Americans - is a brilliant dramatization about the wisdom of Napoléon Bonaparte's famous quote:
“In politics, stupidity is not a handicap.”
It's an American classic.
179
Jared Kushner as the Martin Sheen character going up the river to neutralize his father in law, Colonel Orange Kurtz.
The horror, the horror.
Oh, and Steve Bannon as Robert Duvall, loving the smell of napalm in the morning...
The horror, the horror.
Oh, and Steve Bannon as Robert Duvall, loving the smell of napalm in the morning...
9
I can not stop laughing. Very funny and sadly true.
2
"And the Oscar goes to....the political horror story "Trumpocalypse Now""
The original was about a tribe of people who were "up the river", just like today's Americans. The thing is, at least they had a paddle.
The original was about a tribe of people who were "up the river", just like today's Americans. The thing is, at least they had a paddle.
2
Yes, Mr. Bruni, someday the Trump travesty will be a movie --- called Lie Lie Land.
211
I despise how you have tried to connect some of my favorite movies with politicians. Don't you geniuses realize most of us who pay to see movies want to escape the depressing political landscape for two hours. I hate how everything we see, do, and hear has to be some all encompassing political statement. Jesus give us a break! The hashtag should #OscarsConversationSoClueless!
6
Oh, Bob. (May I call you Bob, Bob?)
4
"Oh, Bob. (May I call you Bob, Bob?)"
Don't hassle him -- he's local.
Don't hassle him -- he's local.
1
And now the film page gets Trumped! I try not reading the Op/Ed page because it is too depressing. C'mon, NYTimes, give us some space! And how about some hope?
3
@rowna sutin: I know what you mean. I'm nearly 70, and wonder if I'll live long enough to see the end of him. But there's always hope. Here's some:
"First they ignore you. Then they laugh at you. Then they fight you. Then you win." - - Gandhi
They are in the trying to ignore us (Indivisible and all resistors) stage, but losing, right on schedule.
I Am Antigone - the girl who said NO.
"First they ignore you. Then they laugh at you. Then they fight you. Then you win." - - Gandhi
They are in the trying to ignore us (Indivisible and all resistors) stage, but losing, right on schedule.
I Am Antigone - the girl who said NO.
5
I haven't missed watching the Oscars in 40 years, nor have I missed reading the NYT for the same amount of time.
However, since I rarely read articles that just state the news without bias, it's probably safe to assume the Oscars will be loaded with innuendos and political speeches as well.
I'm opting out this year.
However, since I rarely read articles that just state the news without bias, it's probably safe to assume the Oscars will be loaded with innuendos and political speeches as well.
I'm opting out this year.
3
Thanks for keeping us up to date!
5
"La La Land" is going to win Best Picture because it's about Hollywood, and the Academy loves nothing more than movies about Hollywood. (Remember "The Artist"?)
4
"(Remember "The Artist"?)"
Thank, loads, for reminding me.
Thank, loads, for reminding me.
1
Notice what leading man Trump is playing: Mussolini. The cruel frown (to make sure you fear the Leader), the turning away from the mob (to turn back in triumph to the mob's cheap plaudits), the self-glorification (in case you have not remembered only he can point the way out of contrived danger), the collusion with corporate exploitation (because the Leader is entitled to all amorality).
26
I thank Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone et al for "La La Land." It took us away from these reality days to a LaLa Land in such a sweet way.
But there's gotta be more to really get to be more.
"Moonlight" deepens our commitment to humanity.....in my mind the ultimate goal of a worthy, "good" movie.
But there's gotta be more to really get to be more.
"Moonlight" deepens our commitment to humanity.....in my mind the ultimate goal of a worthy, "good" movie.
50
La La Land the move is oh so sweet.
La La Land the Trumpian nightmare is oh so sour.
But leave it to the French to capture, in the movie Elle, the horror we are living with Trump, summarized by Rotten Tomatoes:
"Being attacked in her home by an... assailant..." (The way I feel when seeing Trump on my living room TV).
"... drawn into a ... thrilling game-a game that may, at any moment, spiral out of control" (What Trump is sowing everywhere).
La La Land the Trumpian nightmare is oh so sour.
But leave it to the French to capture, in the movie Elle, the horror we are living with Trump, summarized by Rotten Tomatoes:
"Being attacked in her home by an... assailant..." (The way I feel when seeing Trump on my living room TV).
"... drawn into a ... thrilling game-a game that may, at any moment, spiral out of control" (What Trump is sowing everywhere).
11
Worthless banter.
Trite and more than a little bit elitist.
When was the last time Collins was meaningful or funny?
Trite and more than a little bit elitist.
When was the last time Collins was meaningful or funny?
5
Sorry you are having such a bad day.
11
Uh-this column?
5
Last week.The week before. The week before that.
14
I'm with you Frank, "Moonlight" all the way! That film should be shown in every high school English class. For a movie with minimal dialogue, it can generate truthful discussion on so many levels which young people need and crave.
I vote not only for Mahershala Ali to win, but also want him cast in the U.S. version of "Luther."
I vote not only for Mahershala Ali to win, but also want him cast in the U.S. version of "Luther."
30
Like the ESPYs, the Oscars is a showcase of self-congratulatory blather, thinly veiled as peer reviewed acknowledgments of some prestigious accomplishment. A fourth-grader's penmanship report card is more momentous and at the same time much more pleasing a diversion. The oleaginous nature of the products slithering out of lala land goes hand in hand with the softening of the citizenry's heads. Indeed the former may be a cause of the latter. The product is noxious enough; the incestuous celebration of it prompts the gag reflex. Scrap it. And while we're at it, chuck the hellish box the slag flows through and add several IQ points to the household.
8
Maybe you shouldn't watch.
5
Was that not obvious in that post, or are the tin foil receptors not working in the borough of churches?
"Was that not obvious in that post, or are the tin foil receptors not working in the borough of churches?"
As obvious as Max Scholer's sarcasm.
As obvious as Max Scholer's sarcasm.
1
I hope that the Oscars like the Golden Globes turns into a Dump Trump extravaganza. Trump Von Clownstick is so enamored with Hollywood and the adulation celebrities get. He's always wanted to be one of them. He is so fraught with this amazing inferiority complex due to the fact he is barely literate, having never read a book let alone written one, except of course the one he claims to have written about himself.
You go Oscars, rake Von Clownstick over the coals. This demagogic idiot deserves no less.
DD
Manhattan
You go Oscars, rake Von Clownstick over the coals. This demagogic idiot deserves no less.
DD
Manhattan
104
Yes. I'll make the popcorn.
1
Why did you decide to skip discussion of "Lion"? I have seen the majority of the Oscars contenders, and that was one of the very best. Worth incorporating into your discussion!
14
Good to see the Moonlight love.
La La Land is the Dick Cheney movie, if it wins. The vulgar self-congratulation it would represent on the part of the industry is too much like Cheney's VP search, "I conducted a thorough search and the best is me!"
La La Land is the Dick Cheney movie, if it wins. The vulgar self-congratulation it would represent on the part of the industry is too much like Cheney's VP search, "I conducted a thorough search and the best is me!"
63
That should be inscribed on one of Jenny Holzer's tombstone pieces.
1
I dream of the day when "trump" is only uttered in a card game and it can be a good thing.
148
I really want to “recommend” this at least 1,000 times.
5
Really? Is anyone looking forward to totally predictable political pronouncements from good looking, generally not too bright people wearing clothes and jewels that exceed many people's yearly income? What bravery to utter anti-Trump sentiments to a room full of like- minded people! If I even watch, it might be on DVR to fast forward through the nonsense.
Rooting for "Lion"...a film with heart and soul.
Rooting for "Lion"...a film with heart and soul.
15
Donna, you have a gift. I was trying to put my finger on it. Touchy-feely Meryl, Wha-wha crybaby Madonna, Righteous Preacher Affleck, who really cares.
Let's all wear Prada to the Revolution, it's always in dreary colors, and we'll be more convincing. However, this is "dress down" season so no jewels!
Let's all wear Prada to the Revolution, it's always in dreary colors, and we'll be more convincing. However, this is "dress down" season so no jewels!
1
I am guessing you did not hear the interview with Mahershala Ali on Fresh Air. He is quite articulate, capable of speaking in coherent, gramatically correct sentences. The same goes for Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, Barry Jenkins; actually, it is a very long list. When you make up your mind in advance, you tend to only hear your own thoughts and not what someone is actually saying.
10
"...generally not too bright people wearing clothes and jewelsl that exceed many people's yearly income?...."
A substantial number of actors, directors, producers, etc. have college degrees. Google "movie stars with college degrees" and look at examples of those with bachelor's and masters degrees in literature (French and English), chemistry, engineering, business, economics, history, criminology, marketing, Greek, etc. Even without those degrees they'd still be smarter than Trump or Pence.
Jewels are loaned to stars by jewelers who are hawking their product. Ditto the designers who want their names broadcast when a star is seen in one of their designs.
Hollywood is a successful business that sells a lot of things, movies included.
A substantial number of actors, directors, producers, etc. have college degrees. Google "movie stars with college degrees" and look at examples of those with bachelor's and masters degrees in literature (French and English), chemistry, engineering, business, economics, history, criminology, marketing, Greek, etc. Even without those degrees they'd still be smarter than Trump or Pence.
Jewels are loaned to stars by jewelers who are hawking their product. Ditto the designers who want their names broadcast when a star is seen in one of their designs.
Hollywood is a successful business that sells a lot of things, movies included.
7
Movies are only successful if they fill a need in society. The people who produce and act in movies know this and work around it. They have a better understanding of humans in general than skeptics think, so they build their plots and characters around those needs.
Needs change with the times. We've had The Wizard of Oz and Rainman and Spotlight. Sunny stars like Shirley Temple and sinister characters like Freddie Kruger. You can sort of feel the pulse of society by looking at popular movies.
Too bad the Hollywood clairvoyants didn't see Donald and his band of merry robbers coming. They might have shown us the horrors awaiting our environment, pensions, relationships with the world ... all this might have hit home before it happened. Think about it. Would you rather have seen the movie and go home knowing you'll be ready to dodge that bullet, or live it?
Needs change with the times. We've had The Wizard of Oz and Rainman and Spotlight. Sunny stars like Shirley Temple and sinister characters like Freddie Kruger. You can sort of feel the pulse of society by looking at popular movies.
Too bad the Hollywood clairvoyants didn't see Donald and his band of merry robbers coming. They might have shown us the horrors awaiting our environment, pensions, relationships with the world ... all this might have hit home before it happened. Think about it. Would you rather have seen the movie and go home knowing you'll be ready to dodge that bullet, or live it?
41
KJ
I think that's because Bernie supporters who would not budge after the Dem Convention were still in La La Land; and not the movie either.
MIMA
I think that's because Bernie supporters who would not budge after the Dem Convention were still in La La Land; and not the movie either.
MIMA
4
How great that the Oscar winners aren't chosen by the Electoral College.
146
How great for who?
Remember what it took -- the populist outrage -- to get white Hollywood to acknowledge films beyond the white world...
Is this year's #OscarsSoBlack campaign just a one-off response, and next year we will go back to what establishment Hollywood wants us all to view?
Be careful what your humor implies you are wishing for, Mr. Steinberg. You will have trouble stuffing what you have unlocked back into a box...
Remember what it took -- the populist outrage -- to get white Hollywood to acknowledge films beyond the white world...
Is this year's #OscarsSoBlack campaign just a one-off response, and next year we will go back to what establishment Hollywood wants us all to view?
Be careful what your humor implies you are wishing for, Mr. Steinberg. You will have trouble stuffing what you have unlocked back into a box...
Actually, they sort of are. They certainly aren't chosen by the popular vote.
2
If the Oscars were chosen by popular vote, "Hidden Figures" would swamp "La La Land".
Or maybe the winner would be "Captain America: Civil War."
http://www.businessinsider.com/highest-grossing-movies-of-2016-ranked-20...
Or maybe the winner would be "Captain America: Civil War."
http://www.businessinsider.com/highest-grossing-movies-of-2016-ranked-20...
1
The references to Trump were disheartening in a piece about Hollywood, the movies and the Oscars. I suppose in this 'all media all the time' world Trump's visage and bull-in-a-china shop personality takes precedence over everything, and without a doubt Oscar night will be full of anti-trump sentiment (understandable and unavoidable considering the precarious situation we find ourselves in).
That 'La la Land' seems a sure bet to win Best Picture on the grounds that it's a movie of more style than substance, albeit a technically impressive one, doesn't convince me it's worth 14 nominations and the rightful winner. 'Manchester By The Sea' is brilliantly acted but its vale of tears persona is a heavy dose to take in these already depressing times so its winning the big prize seems slim. 'Moonlight' deserves the top prize and I'd love to see it win, but for me the all round most entertaining and informative picture was 'Hidden Figures', an important film on an important subject.
That 'La la Land' seems a sure bet to win Best Picture on the grounds that it's a movie of more style than substance, albeit a technically impressive one, doesn't convince me it's worth 14 nominations and the rightful winner. 'Manchester By The Sea' is brilliantly acted but its vale of tears persona is a heavy dose to take in these already depressing times so its winning the big prize seems slim. 'Moonlight' deserves the top prize and I'd love to see it win, but for me the all round most entertaining and informative picture was 'Hidden Figures', an important film on an important subject.
33
Get used to it.
I think the writers, reporters and artists think their references to all-things-Trump are what passes for bright entertainment now, in their aging circles...
I think the writers, reporters and artists think their references to all-things-Trump are what passes for bright entertainment now, in their aging circles...
The Trump references are because our world is suddenly very different. When an evil cretin takes over your world, it's kind of hard to look away. We are forced to look at absolutely everything--even movies--in a brand new light.
3
So … Oscars aren’t SOLID gold. I’m verklempt.
After Meryl Streep and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, I’m waiting for Streisand to get a lifetime achievement award for “Dolly”, “Funny Girl”, “Funny Lady” and “The Way We Were”, in order to provide a pretext for criticizing fake hair and too much make-up on politicians.
“La La Land” will take the boatload of Oscars: entertaining beats “engrossing” all hollow EVERYWHERE but cramped and suspiciously-incensed apartments on the Upper West Side. Even in the real La La Land. Despite politically correct pretensions otherwise, nobody knows better than Hollywood on which side of their bread the butter is thickest.
As I’m STILL recovering from the angst of the election, I have little energy (or interest) in trying to figure out which picture is a “Hillary”, a “Bernie”, a “Trump”, a “Kellyanne” or a whatever. But bet the ranch on “La La Land”.
After Meryl Streep and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, I’m waiting for Streisand to get a lifetime achievement award for “Dolly”, “Funny Girl”, “Funny Lady” and “The Way We Were”, in order to provide a pretext for criticizing fake hair and too much make-up on politicians.
“La La Land” will take the boatload of Oscars: entertaining beats “engrossing” all hollow EVERYWHERE but cramped and suspiciously-incensed apartments on the Upper West Side. Even in the real La La Land. Despite politically correct pretensions otherwise, nobody knows better than Hollywood on which side of their bread the butter is thickest.
As I’m STILL recovering from the angst of the election, I have little energy (or interest) in trying to figure out which picture is a “Hillary”, a “Bernie”, a “Trump”, a “Kellyanne” or a whatever. But bet the ranch on “La La Land”.
4
Verklempt indeed... now we're all waiting for your political epiphany as well.
2
Robert:
I'm fast approaching my 62nd: I doubt I have a lot of epiphanies left in me.
I'm fast approaching my 62nd: I doubt I have a lot of epiphanies left in me.
Entertaining, but some of the political connections in this conversation seem a bit strained. Gail Collins and Frank Bruni should have incorporated Oscar nominees from past years. "The Madness of King George" would fit our political moment to a tee.
84
Yes, the Conversation does get strained.
Hoping not to be contradicting your point:
I hope Gail in upcoming columns will not only discuss films such as King George, and what they can teach us, but many other films as well. (Then, at other times, books or plays or the Pulitzer winners.)
The nation is in a literacy crisis. People aren't just fooled by fake news but incapable of knowing what's important in the real news. I learned news literacy from a teacher who deviated from the curriculum to teach things like "find a theater critic you trust".
Gail and other knowledgeable people can explain to readers how THEY watch film, theater, political rallies. Readers might then "get" what some films do teach.
Films to discuss after King George:
A Face In The Crowd
The Manchurian Candidate
The Candidate
The Contender (Jeff Bridges is the next-best-thing to Joe Biden; he's choosing a potential VP)
7 Days In May
Advise & Consent
The Front
Valkyrie
HBO 2-part film of "Angels in America"
The American President
A Man for All Seasons
The Lion in Winter
Any film in which reporters do their most vital job. "China Syndrome"?
These films are all #verywhite, but I hope the lessons they teach can transcend race. The United States veers toward internment camps. People will die. #LawMatters. When we no longer bar entry to people who worship a certain way, we will again have the luxury to discuss whether it's best to have 3 dark women nominated.
Or why gaining wisdom from film has value.
Hoping not to be contradicting your point:
I hope Gail in upcoming columns will not only discuss films such as King George, and what they can teach us, but many other films as well. (Then, at other times, books or plays or the Pulitzer winners.)
The nation is in a literacy crisis. People aren't just fooled by fake news but incapable of knowing what's important in the real news. I learned news literacy from a teacher who deviated from the curriculum to teach things like "find a theater critic you trust".
Gail and other knowledgeable people can explain to readers how THEY watch film, theater, political rallies. Readers might then "get" what some films do teach.
Films to discuss after King George:
A Face In The Crowd
The Manchurian Candidate
The Candidate
The Contender (Jeff Bridges is the next-best-thing to Joe Biden; he's choosing a potential VP)
7 Days In May
Advise & Consent
The Front
Valkyrie
HBO 2-part film of "Angels in America"
The American President
A Man for All Seasons
The Lion in Winter
Any film in which reporters do their most vital job. "China Syndrome"?
These films are all #verywhite, but I hope the lessons they teach can transcend race. The United States veers toward internment camps. People will die. #LawMatters. When we no longer bar entry to people who worship a certain way, we will again have the luxury to discuss whether it's best to have 3 dark women nominated.
Or why gaining wisdom from film has value.
34
"Any film in which reporters do their most vital job. "China Syndrome"?"
Good one. "All the President's Men" delights me and bolsters my faith in journalism every time I see it. But yes, your list is a good one, too, and a good suggestion. I'd wish everyone in America see every film on your list, red, blue, purple or colorless 'skins' alike. Hollywood can inform us in ways no other entity can by showing us atrocities and altruism in practice, history's consequences, our comfort with the future, the idealism of our beliefs, demands, and even our potential doom. If we can be shown how things can go in theory, as well as how they've gone before, we can and should be better informed about how to proceed, embracing the best and avoiding the worst. It's no surprise to me that conservatives hate Hollywood. It can be too real and perhaps painful for something based on imagination. For me, personally, Turner Classic Movies is my best friend and constant source of a strange and wavering comfort and discomfort with my fellow humans. I highly recommend it, where available.
Good one. "All the President's Men" delights me and bolsters my faith in journalism every time I see it. But yes, your list is a good one, too, and a good suggestion. I'd wish everyone in America see every film on your list, red, blue, purple or colorless 'skins' alike. Hollywood can inform us in ways no other entity can by showing us atrocities and altruism in practice, history's consequences, our comfort with the future, the idealism of our beliefs, demands, and even our potential doom. If we can be shown how things can go in theory, as well as how they've gone before, we can and should be better informed about how to proceed, embracing the best and avoiding the worst. It's no surprise to me that conservatives hate Hollywood. It can be too real and perhaps painful for something based on imagination. For me, personally, Turner Classic Movies is my best friend and constant source of a strange and wavering comfort and discomfort with my fellow humans. I highly recommend it, where available.
2
What makes me sad--and ruins A Face in the Crowd as a corollary for Trump's campaign--is that the microphone was left on and the people heard it and they still voted for him.
4
We're living in La La land at the moment, so that one should resonate. I haven't seen it yet, but one of the morning news shows ran scenes of La La Land alongside scenes Singing in the Rain. All that made me want to do was watch Singing in the Rain again. Which I did. It was excellent.
"Hell or High Water" was a real surprise. And I think combining Joe Biden with firearms is an interesting idea. Things would get DONE, and pronto.
I thought "Hidden Figures" was about the president's tax returns. But it turns out that it's about unsung black women who helped send a man into space. That's worthy of respect, and can we load up a rocket with the president? Soon? Maybe he could make the moons of Jupiter great again.
"Arrival" made me realize that inky aliens who don't speak our language can communicate with more subtlety than, say, the president. And it gave me hope that the universe might have a rewind button. Let's all go back to November 7, 2016. Any takers?
"Hell or High Water" was a real surprise. And I think combining Joe Biden with firearms is an interesting idea. Things would get DONE, and pronto.
I thought "Hidden Figures" was about the president's tax returns. But it turns out that it's about unsung black women who helped send a man into space. That's worthy of respect, and can we load up a rocket with the president? Soon? Maybe he could make the moons of Jupiter great again.
"Arrival" made me realize that inky aliens who don't speak our language can communicate with more subtlety than, say, the president. And it gave me hope that the universe might have a rewind button. Let's all go back to November 7, 2016. Any takers?
265
On November 7, 2016, many Trump opponents promulgated the canard that Hillary Clinton was as bad as the GOP nominee.
Bernie Sanders was not forcefully correcting followers who determined that Sanders had been wronged so egregiously that non-Bernie candidates all deserved contempt (and lower turnout).
James Comey ("The Man" For No Reason) was still taking advantage of the hodge-podge way American voters get 'information' in 'election season'.
Go back in time to 11-7-2016? I'd sooner visit Love Field in Dallas as a stylish young couple deplaned on 11-22-1963. It was sunny, she was resplendent in pink, and the day seemed destined to be perfect.
I'd sooner bask in the cloudess sky of 8 A. M. on 9-11-2001.
I'd resolve the Bernie Would Have Won controversy before time-travelling, especially because Hillary too bested her opponent (by 2.8 million votes).
And don't forget: Bernie's home state elected a GOP Governor in 2016.
Bernie Sanders was not forcefully correcting followers who determined that Sanders had been wronged so egregiously that non-Bernie candidates all deserved contempt (and lower turnout).
James Comey ("The Man" For No Reason) was still taking advantage of the hodge-podge way American voters get 'information' in 'election season'.
Go back in time to 11-7-2016? I'd sooner visit Love Field in Dallas as a stylish young couple deplaned on 11-22-1963. It was sunny, she was resplendent in pink, and the day seemed destined to be perfect.
I'd sooner bask in the cloudess sky of 8 A. M. on 9-11-2001.
I'd resolve the Bernie Would Have Won controversy before time-travelling, especially because Hillary too bested her opponent (by 2.8 million votes).
And don't forget: Bernie's home state elected a GOP Governor in 2016.
20
I'm in -- but can we move the dial back to before Donald got into real estate and vulgarized the world with his owers and red ties made in China?
17
May be trump can make Pluto a planet again. So unfair.
3
It's pretty telling that the Times, again this year, could not find a black writer to enters this Conversation to talk about politics, diversity and the black impact on the Oscars this year.
Also telling that the two chosen here could not make it through an unrelated conversation about film, art, the movies -- without stumbling over their political biases and making this topic... all about Donald Trump.
Well played. (Are you deliberately focusing everything in your lives on Pres. DT, or are you just working to supply him with never-ending publicity to up your click rates? Odd. Betcha a black person writing about the films up for awards this year would not have focused the column on Him. You all need to seek help, I think, or hire some new writers who have moved on past Nov. 2016. Yup. Donald J. Trump is our president, duly elected by your fellow Americans...
Life Goes On.
Why don't you two try too?
Also telling that the two chosen here could not make it through an unrelated conversation about film, art, the movies -- without stumbling over their political biases and making this topic... all about Donald Trump.
Well played. (Are you deliberately focusing everything in your lives on Pres. DT, or are you just working to supply him with never-ending publicity to up your click rates? Odd. Betcha a black person writing about the films up for awards this year would not have focused the column on Him. You all need to seek help, I think, or hire some new writers who have moved on past Nov. 2016. Yup. Donald J. Trump is our president, duly elected by your fellow Americans...
Life Goes On.
Why don't you two try too?
10
Aw... poor you.
3
Sorry, Trump wasn't elected by our "fellow Americans." Trump lost that vote since the majority of Americans voted for, well, a woman.
Trump was elected by the electoral college, not the American people.
Trump was elected by the electoral college, not the American people.
2
"It's pretty telling that the Times, again this year, could not find a black writer to enters this Conversation to talk about politics, diversity and the black impact on the Oscars this year."
Charles Blow was busy?
Charles Blow was busy?
2
A relief to have Gail conversing with someone not busy dissembling! But seriously guys, all the Oscar buzzing notwithstanding, the best film of the year by far is "Paterson."
14
Have you seen "A Stray" ?
Sounds like a fair competitor to "Moonlight" except the subject is a young black male immigrant struggling to survive in a Midwest city, not a native-born black in Miami.
Sounds like a fair competitor to "Moonlight" except the subject is a young black male immigrant struggling to survive in a Midwest city, not a native-born black in Miami.
5