Reviews of Academy Awards films, from worst to first:

127 Hours - The attention to detail was much appreciated. It was also a blast from the X-treme-90s-sports past. But, at the crucial point, the moment everyone came to see, the film stalled in a major way. There was not enough build-up and empathy towards Ralston's situation. If I compare this to a similar film (Touching The Void) I'm left wanting in a big way. Towards the end of his ordeal James Franco looked like he spent a long afternoon at Disneyland without proper refreshments and rest.

Winter's Bone - I hate to put this so far down the list because it's a really good movie. But, it's up against a strong field.

The Fighter - It did a decent job of not being Rocky 11 with substituted actors. It's less a film about boxing and more about family relationships and escaping your damnable past.

True Grit - I was expecting the Cohen brothers to whip up creme brulee, but got meat and potatoes instead. It's a very solid Western but didn't have the signature I hoped for.

Black Swan - I can't articulate better than this: It got hype for being arty-fartsy.

The Kids Are All Right - I have nothing critical to say. This is a very pleasant film with no deadweight performances. Also, I was dreading the inevitable preachy scenes that are mandatory with every gay-themed production. Thankfully, they never came. In terms of helpful efforts towards the movement, this film took a cue from The Cosby Show. It made a minority family look normal. High marks.

King's Speech - Had three excellent performances but was nowhere near best picture among this company. The Academy loves any period piece or anything that aims at their Anglo/Francophilia.

Facebook.com - All the snarky critics were dead on. It's solid from minute one to the final scene.

Toy Story 3 - In terms of entertainment it simply delivered.

Inception - I don't usually have a hard-on for CGI driven, slick productions. But, it was one of the more creative movies I've seen and only lagged a few times.