Jandy,
Hi, every time I check back I am reminded how much I love your websites! Are you going to do an Oscar special (your choices)? Maybe you already have but I couldn't find it. I am particularly interested in hearing your thoughts on Slumdog. I remember you are a D. Boyle devotee. I saw him in a great interview the other night on Tavis Smiley. I have seen all the major nominees except Doubt. I think The Wrestler affected me more than any movie this year, but of the BP nominees I go with Slumdog. I love Gus Van Sant but, politics aside, did not find Milk especially noteworthy besides Penn's performance. I love your TCM previews and think you will find more to like in Elephant. That knocked me out upon first viewing but gets me in a fresh way every time. And I always love to see you promote Casablanca. I have made it a traditional Christmas Eve movie (along with It's A Wonderful Life) and both get better each year--amazing. Are you working? Studying?
Eric S.

Aw, thanks Eric. I haven't really thought that much about the Oscars - they seem pretty boring this year (I posted some thoughts on the nominations here). I really enjoyed Slumdog Millionaire and it'll probably win. Doubt is worthwhile for the acting, but I disagreed with several of the director's choices (but then, he's a playwright - what can you do?).

Right now I'm working for an internet advertising company. It's a great environment, fun and casual. And my web coding abilities, slight as they are, come in useful. What about you?

Jandy, that's great that you are getting to use your technical skills at the advertising company. I am teaching 1304 and making slow progress on my dissertation. I have enjoyed Waco but am very ready to move on. Thank you for linking me to your Oscar comments. I think it has been a poor movie year, though I haven't seen many of the foreign or independent. I am looking forward to seeing The Class but am sceptical. Tell No One was good but not great.I think Slumdog should win by default, being the least flawed of the BP candidates. I agree that Benjamin Button was lacking. I think I preferred Revolutionary Road over The Reader but liked both and Kate was great in both, although I thought Leo surpassed her. I would give best adapted screenplay to Slumdog but would probably give best pic to The Wrestler. I'm surprise you think this is a boring year :) Aside from the limited number of strong films, the contests seem interesting. Aside from the politics of best picture, there are four heavyweights for best actor, one would think Streep or Winslet wins best actress but Hathaway and Leo could pull an upset. Tomei is incredible and I've heard Adams is great, plus Davis and Henson are lesser known but integral to their pics. Art Direction and Cinematography seem wide open as is Director, though Boyle should win regardless of who wins best picture. I was bummed about the movie year but am excited about the awards. Plus how can you not be excited about Hugh Jackman hosting!