have to say I agree with you on your point that if something is the best film of the year no matter what it should be mentioned in that category, but not with the recognization of foreign films. I mean the B in BAFTA does stand for British, right? If they're choosing foreign films, what does that say about THEIR movies? 

Also, foreign films come into play a lot more than just in the foreign film category. Last year specifically. There were technically 3 movies of foreign origination in the best picture category last year. 2 of them had languages other than English spoken as the primary language of the film. 

Also, this year we have a foreign director recognized for his achievements as well as a foreign actress recognized for hers. So, basically for the most part if the Academy DOES believe something is the best they'll throw it in...despite the tradition of favoritism and rain-check awards. 

I don't see what everyone is arguing about. You are arguing over a possiblity that has no chance in happening. I mean seriously, whether Rietmen deserves the award doesn't matter, because there is no way he could ever win it. 

I think it is either going to take an underdog win with either Ellen Page or Best Picture itself, with me actually leaning towards Best Picture 

And your comment regarding the BAFTAs, now man. That's just seems a bit rude, and self righteous in the belief that British cinema is of a lower standard to that of Hollywood, and so does not deserve a look in at the 'big event'. The BAFTAs are, to me, what the Academy should be aspiring to achieve. It aims to be a much fairer board, which would explain why The Lives of Others was nominated in the Best Picture category. Now, I like many others on here, respected that The Lives of Others was one of thebest releases of last year. Where was it at the Oscars...Oh yeah, best foreign language film. Not good enough for Best Picture I see. Language should not be a barrier for Best Picture noms. If it is the best picture of that year, then it should be nominated in that category, regardless of language. It also recognised This is England, one of the most daring films of last year. Where was it at the Oscars. Oh yeah, not even a mention. Then there is Control, again nothing. I could go on. The BAFTAs are to me, what the Oscars will never be. It is definitely an equal to the Academy in terms of quality, and Im sure it is even better in some respects. So don't go suggesting that the BAFTAs are created for British cinema only, and that it is a secondary event to the Oscars. It is a well respected awards ceremony, which because of its location, will never be able to compete with the colossus that is the Academy Awards. 

I really wish I can convince you of my infatuation with Danny Boyle. I mean, pom-poms and high-kicks type of admiration for the man, but your comments regarding the goosebump-like feeling you received while watching "Sunshine" might be more due to the temperature in the theater. 

There were some scenes that were incredible, but the film went off on a tangent and became a muddled and at sometimes (in the third act) incoherent. Bringing in the evil character put it over-the-top and yet, it managed to do the very thing you'd expect if you're a fan of sci-fi via Tarkovsky's "Solaris". 

DP Alwin Kuchler is one of my favorite DPs, but the cinematography became too hindered by digital effects and relied too much on key/source lighting at the end. The best shots were digitally-mastered, towards the end. 

I can understand you being biased to European films, but remember that the Academy Awards were started and exist to acknowledge themselves (a proverbial pat on the back). 

I don't even know how to help you to understand why there might need to be a Foreign Language film. "The Lives of Others" was selected (as a surprise to many, including me) over "Pan's Labyrinth". That in and of itself is a great feat. Yet, you wanted it taking home Best Picture. 

Well, I'm sure in Germany, it did. However, you accuse me of appearing self-righteous, yet you question why foreign films aren't heralded above other Hollywood productions. I'm sure in their respective countries those films are getting their due respect, as they should, but if you gave the Best Picture Oscar to "The Lives of Others" you're not honoring Hollywood - as it isn't a Hollywood production. 

Who cares, its honouring good film making. Isnt that really what it should all be about. Why be so narrow minded so that only films made in Hollywood deserve recognition. the Academy needs to get over itself and realise there is a world outside of Hollywood, and that it is making films which at least match what they can.

At the moment, they seem to feel it is much better to see a foreign film and translate it for an American audience. I felt Infernal Affairs was a much better picture that The Departed, and that in doing so, Hollywood has disrespected American audiences by reproducing it. I would much rather it was recognised by Hollywood and then promoted as it was, not filtered down for an American audience.