Dustin Smith
Staff Writer

One of Hollywood’s most glamorous evenings is just days away.

The most watched night of TV will be at 5 p.m. on Feb. 25, as the 79th Academy Awards are presented live from the Kodak Theater in Hollywood. The event will be hosted by Ellen DeGeneres on NBC.

With over 20 categories, an excellent number of nominees, and Ellen DeGeneres hosting, movie fans are sure not to miss this great night of television.

Forest Whitaker has been catching a large amount of attention and has been nominated for Actor in a Leading Role, for his role in “The Last King of Scotland.”

Jordan McDonald, a resident of Apple Valley is excited to see him nominated and is excited about his latest role in the film.

“I think he will win, because he has played a strong part in the movie and has strong publicity,” McDonald said.

Abigail Lee, a junior biology major, is also excited to see Forest Whitaker nominated.

“He had to step out of himself and actually become the character, which is not an ordinary person,” Lee said.

The cast of “DreamGirls” has also caught a lot of attention, with its outstanding cast including Eddie Murphy, nominated for Actor in a Supporting Role, Jennifer Hudson, nominated for Actress in a Supporting Role, and two nominations for the music in the film.

“I would love to see “DreamGirls” win Oscars for original songs,” said Brooke Gray, a junior biology major.

Mimi Gates, founder of Manzolin Records, predicts that “Pirates Of The Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest,” which has received four nominations including: Achievement in Art Direction, Achievement in Sound Editing, Achievement in Sound Mixing, and Achievement in Visual Effects, will receive at least one Oscar.

“From start to finish it has Disney excellence written all over it,” Gates said. “It appeals to young and old alike.”

Kimberly Smith, a sign language interpreter, would like to see Will Smith receive an Oscar for Actor in a Leading Role for his performance in “The Pursuit of Happiness.”

Anica Alvis, a junior currently attending Jefferson Community College, enjoys Ellen DeGeneres’ humor and is very excited about her hosting the Awards.

The Awards also are a time to see what the celebrities are wearing.
Lee anticipating the great fashion that stars like Angelina Jolie will be wearing as well as the dress that singer Beyonce Knowles will wear for the evening.

“She always wears something feminine and bright, but always looks perfect,” Lee said.

If waiting is too much to handle, visit www.oscars.com and check out the nominees and other great features including games, and videos.

Movie fans can also register to participate in The Predict the Winners Sweepstakes.

One lucky Grand Prize winner will be brought to Los Angeles to receive first class treatment and a seat on the red carpet.

Four First Prize winners will each receive an 80 Gigabyte Apple iPod.

Dustin Smith can be reached at dsmith9@ulv.edu.