The 82nd Annuals Academy Awards were a mix of highs and lows for African Americans. “Precious” was nominated for five Oscars. The Academy Awards brought the hope of Lee Daniels becoming the first African American director to win best director. He was only the second African American to be nominated for the award. But this was not his year.
The storyline of pitting James Cameron (“Avatar”) versus his ex-wife Kathryn Bigelow (“The Hurt Locker”) for best director was too juicy. Bigelow won the Oscar, which gave her bragging rights over her ex as well as the honor of being the first woman to win best director.
Daniels did win an Oscar for best adapted screenplay. Monique won for best supporting actress.
“Tyler Perry and Oprah Winfrey because you touched it the whole world saw it,” said Mo’Nique during her acceptance speech.
Unfortunately, the young Gabourey Sidibe lost her bid for best actress to Sandra Bullock, but we all have so much love for this young sister. Sidibe cried as she listened to Oprah Winfrey’s tribute to her tenacity and gravitas during the introduction of the nominees.
“We see a true American Cinderella on the threshold of greatness,” Oprah said.
Indeed we did.
