It’s the morning all of Hollywood looks forward to. The reading of the Oscar nominations is like the NBA draft - people hold their breath - until the names are read!

This year offers its share of excitement, intrigue and surprises. By now, of course you know the numbers.  ”Hugo” was at the top, with 11 nominations. “The Artist” — which is not your typical film, is silent and a black-and-white film - it drew 10 nominations. Unfortunately, I have not seen either of them. But they remain high on the list of “must-view” films before the telecast on February 26 in the heart of Hollywood.

Some of the feature films I saw and loved this year. “The Help” - which is nominated for “Best Picture” was a delightful surprise. It sounded like an implausible formula film to me. But a friend encouraged me to watch it - I was happy I did. The story focuses on a group of black women working as maids in the South in the 60’s who dare to expose the racist attitudes of the white women for whom they tend house. I especially enjoyed the performance of Viola Davis in a leading role. Powerfully understated as a long suffering domestic with an internal core of grace and strength. Without a speck of make up, Ms.Davis commanded the screen.

“Midnight in Paris” - the latest film directed and written by veteran filmmaker, Woody Allen. It features Owen Wilson as his alter ego. The film transports the film goer through time — back to the romantic golden era of Paris in the 20’s — when some of the greatest American writers in history lived in close quarters. I found the film to be charming! It explores the theme of longing and a sense of gilded history …and if you love literature, the portrayals of some of your favorite authors: Hemingway, Fitzgerald and Stein. And who can get enough of the sequences shot in the most romantic city in the world?

“Moneyball” - If you are a baseball nut and fascinated by the business of the great American past time - this is your kind of film. The book was a best seller, and Brad Pitt gives a strong performance as Billy Beane, the GM of the Oakland A’s. Beane sets about turning the conventional wisdom of HOW to win baseball games on its ear. We watch him try to figure out how to assemble a winning team without a big checkbook. If baseball is a metaphor for life, this film brilliantly captures the highs and lows, as told through the lense of sport. Pitt is superb as a man on a life quest.

Performances to Watch:

Meryl Streep - “The Iron Lady” There is a reason that Streep has more Oscar nominations than any other actor- she is extraordinary. Streep magnificently takes on the role of one of the most powerful Prime Ministers in recent history. This film depicts Margaret Thatcher’s rise from the daughter of a grocer, through the male dominated British political system. Streep puts a human face on the caricature known as “The Iron Lady.” I highly recommend.

Films I am running to see next: “A Better Life” - Demian Bichir as a father working hard to provide for his son…Bichir is said to be great- he’s up for “Best Actor.” Bichir is famous in his native Mexico. The first time a Latino actor has received the nomination since Anthony Quinn.

“The Descendants” - lot of buzz around George Clooney’s performance as a dad struggling to keep his family together during a crisis. Clooney plays a non glamorous role and is called upon to show vulnerability. He is said to be excellent in this role. George is up for “Best Actor” along with his buddy, Brad Pitt.

“My Week with Marilyn” Michelle Williams.  Been a fan of hers since “Brokeback Mountain.” Williams nominated for “Best Actress.” Looking forward to her transformation into the blonde bombshell!

As I write this, looking for opportunities to grab popcorn and enjoy as many great films as I can before Oscar’s Big Night! Expect to see more …

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