There was a lot of pressure for producers Bill Condon and Lawrence Mark to deliver the "biggest movie event of the year", but unlike other years, the duo famous for their work behind the camera, made good on their promise. They brought the Oscars back to their roots. The entire telecast was what it should always be, a celebration of the year in film. They really couldn't go wrong with host Hugh Jackman. No one expects him to be funny, so if he is, great, but if he isn't, it doesn't matter. The song of the "recession budgeted" opening number was clever and relevant, since everyone immediately thinks "should we be spending all this money on a production in this economic climate?" With the elephant in the room fully addressed, the night turned out to have the pomp and circumstance needed for the Oscars, without the uptight feeling of being in church. Five former winners in the acting categories presenting together contributed to the importance bestowed on the biggest prize in Hollywood. The presenters banter wasn't awkward because for the most part they were explaining the categories, not jokes. However, the few comedic spots on the show went over really well, like Ben Stiller's impersonation of Joaquin Phoenix, the Judd Apatow clip and Steve Martin and Tina Fey's presentation of the writing awards. Condon and Marks really know what they were doing because they gave the reaction shots everyone wanted to see. Most notably, a close up of Angelina Jolie while Jennifer Aniston was on stage. Overall, this was the best Academy Awards ceremony is about eight years. The reception was immediately positive, almost assuring the producers and return invitation.
