Oscar Movies, Part II

Some more of this year's nominees:

Best Picture Nominee: The King's Speech
Colin Firth plays Prince Albert, who becomes King of England when his brother abdicates the throne to marry his American mistress. Problem is, Albert has a major stammering problem, which wreaks havoc for someone that's expected to give public speeches. This is even more pronounced as this takes place in the run-up to World War II. So he seeks out the help of a speech therapist, played by Geoffrey Rush. Both Firth and Rush were nominated for acting awards, as was Helena Bonham Carter, who plays Albert's wife. Very good movie, one that seemed made for Oscars. This is considered the front runner, but I still believe The Social Network was better, but you won't go wrong seeing this one, it is still very good. Note: The movie is inexplicably rated R. This is basically for two brief outbursts of profanity, part of his "therapy," that is all done in a very humorous manner, not offensive at all. The rest of the movie is perfectly clean. Take away those instances and this is a very good movie for all ages.

Best Picture Nominee: Inception
Big summer movie that I missed when it was in theatres. Wasn't enticed by the previews, seemed too convoluted or another variation on The Matrix. But I was very wrong. This is an excellent movie. All about Leonardo DiCaprio who specializes in entering people's dreams and extracting info. But this time he is hired to enter someone's dream and plant info. I know, sounds kinda strange, but it is all easy to follow and the movie hums along quickly, even at 2 1/2 hours. Directed by Christopher Nolan (Batman Begins, Dark Knight). He knows his way around action movies. Very original concept, although movie buffs may recognize the basic concept from an 80's movie with Dennis Quaid. Highly recommended, and of the Best Picture nominees, I'd call this one my 2nd favorite behind The Social Network.

Best Picture Nominee: Winter's Bone
Obscure movie that no one saw when it was released. Young girl with a do-nothing mom is basically raising her little brother and sister. Finds out their house and land will be taken away if her dad (who long deserted them) doesn't show up for a court date. Quiet movie, rather bleak, but still well done. Oscar nominations for unknowns Jennifer Lawrence as the daughter and someone else who I can't remember as one of her uncles, who is quite good. It won't win anything, but it's worth checking out, but it's not the most uplifting movie you'll ever see.