A Thin Celluloid Line
It certainly has been a year of lackluster, forgettable films. In Kenneth Turan’s “It’s Elementary, Oscar” (Jan. 27), even the seemingly most Oscar-worthy films will probably not have much of a video or DVD shelf life.
Despite its outstanding performances, “A Beautiful Mind” faltered on its redundancy of plot points and overwrought sentimentality. “In the Bedroom,” I fear, will ultimately belong to those esteemed but forgotten films on video store shelves such as “Gods and Monsters,” “Secrets & Lies” and “The Thin Red Line.”
“Black Hawk Down,” although much honored, may be dismissed by the public as just another violent, graphic war film. “Moulin Rouge” and “Mulholland Drive” are acquired tastes. “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” has the best opportunity of securing a long shelf life, given its artistic and commercial success.
Will sorcerers and hobbits rule on Oscar night?
Oh, the heck with it! So what if it’s nominated for best picture and best animated feature. The Oscar goes to ... “Shrek.”
Children will guarantee a long shelf life.
CHRISTOPHER MILLER
Aliso Viejo
Only good movies
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