BLOGS

Written by Robin Bell

Yawn, yawn, yawn.

Whilst I always try and stay up to watch the Oscars it's becoming increasingly difficult, as for some stupid reason they're only shown on Sky Movies in the UK, and I refuse to subscribe. This meant having to find a live stream online, which actually wasn't that difficult, but provides the first reason for this blog opening with yawns – it's not good staying up till the early hours watching Oscar footage on your little laptop.

The second and more important reason was the predictable results of this year's Oscars, surely one of the most predictable and boring ever. King's Speech: Best Film, Best Director, Leading Actor and Best Original Screenplay. Aaron Sorkin: Best Adapted Screenplay for Social Network. Natalie Portman: Leading Actress for Black Swan. Whilst these are deserved awards they could have been predicted weeks ago.

The only interesting thing which has come out of this for me is the British film industry's success, especially the King's Speech, as this film came about from funding for the now obsolete UK Film Council. Even at the time the decision to axe the Film Council seemed ludicrous, but after the well-earned trans-Atlantic triumph of the King's Speech how can the government justify their decision? It's no wonder that yesterday I received numerous e-mails regarding Creative England, their replacement. An organisation to replace the UK Film Council is sorely needed, but let's hope that the success of the King's Speech doesn't become a poisoned chalice – if funding will only be directed towards a glut of second-rate royalty-themed rubbish and tedious 'triumphs over adversity' we won't be getting many Oscar invitations in future.

Yawn, yawn, yawn.