Oscars 2015, or (The Unexpected Sweep of Alejandro Innaritu)

So after so much anticipation, Birdman won four Oscars, including three for Alejandro G. Innaruito. The Academy decided not to spread the wealth around, instead giving Alejandro G. Inaritu every Oscar he was up for. Considering he seems like a threat for numerous Oscars again next year (The Reverent), it's a shame neither Wes Anderson or Richard Linklater could win one Oscar.

Overall I was happy with many wins. Whiplash winning 3 Oscars was a delight, even if it meant I ended up at 18/24 correct in my predictions. For a while it seemed like I might set a record for my predictions, but Birdman's streak at the end prevented that.

Birdman seems like an especially weird Best Picture winner, but Boyhood seemed equally weird. Glad we got such a unique winner, regardless of my preference. Next year has to go back to business as usual, so I'll cherish the unpredictability of 2015, even if it was at the expense of my favorite films.

• All 8 Best Picture nominees won an Oscar. That has to be a first in Oscar history after the Best Picture lineup change.
• The "Glory" win was quite nice. David Oyelowo crying was a touching surprise. Chris Pine crying, however, was just amazing. Glad to see a song move people so.
• Neil Patrick Harris wins the award for most appearances during the show by a host. He never disappeared, even for a segment. That said, he wasn't very good. Like, at all, He seemed like he serviced the show as best he could, but added nothing. Too bad, as he could have been quite good with the right producers.
• Speaking of which, this is the third year in a row with the same producers, Enough, They aren't very good, and their annual tributes to musicals are getting old. I hope we move on next year.
• This feels like one of the more forgettable Oscar shows. Too bad, as there were a number of great wins (Patty Arquette calling for wage equality among them).

I enjoyed the show, even if I didn't agree with some winners. I know I'll never get a year that lines up with my preferences, so 2014 was a satisfying year in its own way. I'm not sure if Richard Linklater gets another shot at awards, but I'm glad he came as close as he did.