Inefficient ‘Rings’

Manohla Dargis certainly hit the nail on the head when writing about the Oscars and the hype of film product (“A Dull Hard Sell,” Feb. 29).

As a film school graduate I think back on what I perceive was the most important concept I’d learned during my college days: visual economy.

“Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King” must be the antithesis of that concept. Billy Crystal said it best in his introduction when announcing it was nominated for 11 awards ... one for each ending. I can easily understand how it won awards in many of the categories, but best picture? It violates the most basic of film fundamentals on several levels. Now it stands at the summit of the Oscars, having won 11.

I can only assume the majority of the academy voters bought into the hype or have no formal training of the craft and art in filmmaking. At least, thanks to Manohla, L.A. Times readers were forewarned. Keep up the good work.

Anthony Berardinelli

North Hollywood