Oscar Goes Global

This 2008 sees the golden statuette from the Academy Awards (or more known as the Oscars) coming of age, celebrating its 80 years. And it's time again to recognise the best from the film industry.


Originated from USA, and held there, this awards ceremony is seen by many as a USA-Hollywood thing. Hollywood stars, actors, actresses, directors and the film industry players gear up for the 'most prestigious night in the film industry'. And though it's broadcast outside of Hollywood as well, however, the ripples caused overseas are a little less.

Of course, the introduction of Best Foreign Language Film do give the nominating overseas country some cheer and more attention.

Asians will remember Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon when home-born Asian stars were seen in the audience. It was like the rise of China, and Asian movies then, and with the movie winning 4 awards that night.

Then in 2005, there was the much anticipated Taiwan born director, Ang Lee's Best Director nomination, which he eventually won for Brokeback Mountain. Though a Hollywood movie, but because of Ang Lee's roots, it was a thumbs up from Asia.

Well this year don't see any Asian movie making waves there, but the Oscars have kept up with its global attention. This year, it has shifted back to Europe, and sees a fair bit of European film players making waves. Amongst them:
Best Actor: Daniel Day-Lewis, British
Best Actress: Marion Cotillard, French
Best Supporting Actor: Javier Bardem, Spanish
Best Supporting Actress: Tilda Swinton, British

The list is quite a surprise with non USA born making their mark in these 4 categories. But as Oscar goes global and the need for worldwide attention, it is only fair to also recognise those from other countries, and this time they did just that.


The award winning moment for Marion Cotillard, amongst the best receiving moments.


A colourful & happy moment by Javier Bardem.

This goes to show Hollywood is much more open than we think it is. And I will be rooting once again when in the near future maybe an Asian movie will be coveted the Best Picture or an Asian star for the Best Actor/ Actress!

And like the winners said, Dreams Do Come True, and maybe it can just be mine :)