Tell you something I liked about watching the Oscars tonight...

[Matilda]

and that was the sight of so many glamorous women wearing elegant and
truly gorgeous gowns. I watched most of the (still over-long) show
tonight just for the dresses alone. The results always come in throughout
the day here, so by the time we get home to watch the show, we know who's
won anyway.

I got so tired in recent years of watching what looked like a parade of
hookers, I seldom watched the whole thing through, but I'm glad to see
some style coming back.

[lavenderdiva]

1. I loved watching the gowns too!

not to mention the bling! I thought Angelina Jolie's emerald earrings and ring were eye-popping. Also, even though apparently fashionistas didn't agree with me, I thought Amy Adams looked wonderful, and I LOVED her necklace!

One major improvement I thought they made to the awards in the major categories, was bringing 5 former award holders to compliment and really give encouragement to the current nominees. I liked seeing different generations of actors/actresses now and then, share their experiences and wisdom with the current crop.

Have you seen Slum Dog Millionaire? I haven't, and haven't really heard anything from anyone I know, that would really make me want to go see it. I don't get what all the hype is all about.... I'll just bet that in a few years from now, it'll be the 'Life is Beautiful' movie for now.

[Matilda]

2. I also loved the emeralds!

And with that black dress, with its simple, beautifully-cut line - gorgeous.

I thought the two glaring style exceptions were Sophia Loren, who looked like a madam from the Wild West - just
trying to hard to show us that she's still got it, but it was all too overdone. And Shirley McLaine, who appeared
not to be trying at all. She looked like a girls' school headmistress in a horror movie. Or maybe Mrs Danvers.

And I'm afraid I can't escape a sneaking suspicion that the success of Slumdog Millionaire is the West being
patronising to the sub-continent. Maybe I'm wrong, but I also have no desire at all to see it. A lot of films
would be on my list before that one.