December Best Picture Contenders

With very limited reviews this month, it seems as if it may be a mystery as to what baits will make the Best Picture lineup...

"Locks" (if we can say that)

• The Mystic- Arguably, it's the baitest of the month, and the synopsis is remarkable. However, it may split votes with Family Soupe. But, I'm betting BOTH will make the BP linuep.
• Family Soupe- Representing the comedy will be Family Soupe. Not doubt in my mind. The dynamic duo struck gold this month, and there will be even more gold going their way at the awards ceremony.
• Wonsaponatime- D.W. recreated the life of a brilliant man in a classy way. Expect this to be the nomination leader and probably the BP winner as well.

Possibilities

• A Tale of the Night- The chat is talking about the original musical a lot. The buzz is growing, but it may be lost in the shuffle.
• Pursuits- Family Soupe is the only thing standing in the offbeat comedies way. However, don't leave out the possibility of two comedies.
• A Life Before- Ryne had a huge comeback with this bait. Voters are splitting a bit more on this one, but in a not so strong month, it could make the cut.

More predictions to come soon!

Nutty November Featuring Aunt Linda

The following interview took place on November 11, 2008 prior to baits being posted.







Michael: As we all know, this month the Igloo Bait Festival had a record breaking ceremony, when Adrian James' newest bait Shadows of the Sun won every single category. Now that the baits, a record low, have been published many have already predicted the Oscars a sweep. Here to comment on this month and the baits that were just recently released is I's new correspondent and my very own Aunt Linda.


Aunt Linda: Thanks Michael for that WONDERFUL introduction...ghaa...

M: No problem, so Aunt Linda what did you think of Shadows of the Sun? It seems to be getting all the buzz as of now...

AL: BUZZ?! WHAT?!

M: Well, it's definately gotten the best reviews and it swept the festival so what did you think?

AL: Well first of all, why is it called Shadows of the Sun? The sun certainly doesn't have a shadow, let alone multiple shadows. Next, I didn't even know the name of the hero, if we can even say that...I gladly give this film a "What?"

M: Okay, well what did you think of "In the Heights", it seems to be promising...

AL: In the Heights?! I wish I were as high as those moviemakers who decided this was a good idea...it just didn't make any sense! I was wondering the entire time why people were dancing and singing in the streets of New York City, it just doesn't happen. I give this film a "Ghaa" and an "Oh, boy" NOT FOR ME! And finally my last film is IT..

M: Wow, you went to IT? It seemed pretty scary...

AL: I LOVED IT! It was well paced, greatly performed, and finally a movie that wasn't very long...I give this film a "THANK YOU!" and a "Learn from this Disney"

M: Well thank you Aunt Linda for seeing all these films for us, and to read all of Aunt Linda's reviews for this month keep reading I! where they will be posted soon...

I! Top 100 #40-1 Finale!!!

It's finally here. Your votes for the best of the best. The cream of the crop. The ace in the hole. Here are the 40 highest voted baits of Bait an Oscar:



40.) Dr. Death, written by Tony
39.) Criminal Origins, written by Zgamer
38.) Broken Pieces, written by Chris Perkins
37.) Dear Mr. President, written by James Somerton
36.) The Dead President, written by Pat (O, SAG)
35.) Behind Closed Doors, written by Chris M.
34.) Darwin Discovered, written by Maia (O, GG)
33.) Ironic Nonfiction, written by Daniel Crooke (O, GG)
32.) La Ventana, written by Brett (O)
31.) Pride of Baghdad, written by Alfredo (GG)



30.) The Arabic Cafe, written by Maia
29.) For Pay, written by Alfredo (NBR, GG)
28.) A Faith of One, written by Zgamer
27.) The Vampire Lestat, written by James Somerton
26.) Magic Lantern, written by Harry (O, F)
25.) The Wall, written by James Somerton (O)
24.) Gone Since November, written by Chris Perkins
23.) Cielo Drive, written by Brett and Dpac (SAG)
22.) Midnight Mass, written by James Somerton (GG)
21.) The Winter Sun, written by Tony



20.) The Bang-Bang Club, written by D.W. Dillon
19.) Sandstorm, written by Al (O)
18.) The Banality of Evil, written by Alex S.
17.) Dominion, written by Tony (GG)
16.) Realm of the Bird, written by Douglass Reese (NBR, GG)
15.) The Man Who Invented Rock Hudson, written by Josh P. (O, GG, F)
14.) Bootleg, written by Maia (O, SAG)
13.) The Wishbones, written by Chris M. (O, NBR, GG, SAG)
12.) The Killer Eagles, written by Pat (O, NBR, GG, SAG, F)
11.) Cinematheque, written by Alex S. (O)


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And now, the big 10. Drumroll please!:


10.) Destiny, written by Harry



9.) Mario Puzo’s The Family, written by Alex S. (NBR, SAG)


8.) The Valley of Ashes, written by Zgamer (GG, F)


7.) Silence, written by James Somerton (GG)


6.) Jackrabbit, written by Zgamer (O, GG)


5.) Wackos, written by Zgamer (GG)


4.) Bandito Express, written by Daniel Crooke (GG, F)


3.) A New Agenda, written by Daniel Crooke (O, GG, SAG)


2). The World’s Longest Suicide, written by D.W. Dillon (O)


And your new #1 pick....



The one you voted for...




is....





1.) Live From New York, written by Pat!!!!

Thank you for joining us tonight in the I! Top 100 countdown and have a great weekend!

I! Top 100's Best Actor, Supp. Actor and #80-41

Alrighty, here is part two of the I! Top 100. Sorry for the delay but we were partying with some ladies (college rocks!)

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Ok, here are your votes for the 25 Best Actors of all time:

1) Julian MacMahon (The World's Longest Suicide)
2) Geoffrey Rush (Faded Red)
3) Ryan Gosling (Jackrabbit)
4) Barry Pepper (The Valley of Ashes)
5) Robin Williams (Midnight Mass)
6) Thomas Haden Church (Carter)
7) Tom Hanks (The Winter Sun)
8) David Straithern (Steamboat Disney)
9) Anthony Hopkins (Darwin Discovered)
10) Michael Imperioli (The Man Who Invented Rock Hudson)
11) Joseph Gordon Levitt (Broken Pieces)
12) John Goodman (Behind Closed Doors)
13) Peter O'Toole (Dr. Death)
14) Topher Grace (Gray Daze)
15) Tom Berenger (Borderman)
16) Micaulay Culkin (For Pay)
17) Jeff Daniels (Wackos)
18) Jeremy Davis (Judas Iscariot)
19) Max Von Sydow (Masterpiece)
20) Robert De Niro (Cherry Blossom)
21) Brendan Frasier (Once a Hero)
22) Joe Anderson (Here We Are Now)
23) Ben Foster (Booth)
24) Benico Del Toro (La Ventana)
25) Keifer Sutherland (The Bang-Bang Club)

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Next up, here are your votes for the Best Supporting Actors of all time:

1.) Armin Mueller-Stahl for The Hussein Room (O, NBR, F\, GG, SAG)
2.) Cillian Murphy for Sandstorm (GG)
3.) Daniel Day Lewis for The Bang-Bang Club (O, SAG)
4.) Al Pacino for A New Agenda (GG, F)
5.) Samuel L. Jackson for Bandito Express
6.) Forest Whitaker for River City Blue (O, GG, SAG)
7.) Daniel Auteuil for Cinematheque (O, GG)
8.) Steve Buscemi for Wackos
9.) Ethan Hawke for Rivalry at 6 P.M. (GG, SAG, F)
10.) Kevin Kline for Silence (GG, SAG)
11.) James Gandolfini for The Winter Sun (GG, SAG)
12.) Daniel Radcliffe for Foggy London Nights (O, SAG)
13.) David Bowie for Ironic Nonfiction (O)
14.) Heath Ledger for Rush
15.) Hugh Laurie for Freak Show
16.) Paul Dano for Masterpiece (O, NBR, GG, SAG, F)
17.) Gary Oldman for The Banality of Evil (O)
18.) Artie Lang for Live From New York
19.) Alec Baldwin for Jackrabbit (SAG)
20.) Mark Whalberg for Cobra (O, NBR, GG)
21.) Samuel L. Jackson for Watts (O)
22.) Vincent D'Onofiro for Break Before Bend (O, F)
23.) Jeremy Piven for The Dead President (GG, SAG)
24.) Peter O'Toole for The Vampire Lestat
25.) John Malkovich for Forlorn (F)

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And finally, we bring you the #80-41 baits of all time!!!:

41.) The Awakening, written by Gabby (GG)
42.) Faded Red, written by Brian Erickson (F)
43.) Dragontown, written by James Somerton
44.) Warner Girls, written by Anwar
45.) The Hussein Room, written by Brian Erickson (GG)
46.) Fosse, written by Alex (O, SAG)
47.) To Dwell in Evil, written by Tony
48.) Deep Secret, written by Matt
49.) Fresh Heir Vol. III, written by Brian Erickson
50.) Ralph's Food and Drug, written by Alex (GG)

51.) Masterpiece, written by Pat
52.) Recoil, written by D.W. Dillon
53.) Glass, written by Marcus Dennis (GG)
54.) Quiet Room, written by Sergio
55.) Rivalry at 6 P.M., written by Patrick D. (O, F)
56.) Six Days in 67, written by Alfredo
57.) Break Before Bend, written by D.W. Dillon (F)
58.) Cherry Blossom, written by D.W. Dillon
59.) Photograph, written by Pat (O, GG)
60.) Dubai, written by Maia (NBR)

61.) The Playground Factory, written by Bryce
62.) Inside You Out, written by James Somerton
63.) Lucky Clover, written by Sergio (O)
64.) Fallout, written by Zgamer
65.) Book, written by Connor Campbell (O, GG)
66.) The Poisonwood Bible, written by Brian Erickson
67.) Bruised Boys, written by Douglass Reese
68.) Judas Iscariot, written by George (O)
69.) Lord of the Flies, written by Zgamer (NBR)
70.) Once a Hero, written by Matthew LaRusso

71.) Imagine, written by Harry (GG)
72.) Flashes, written by Tony
73.) River City Blue, written by Ross (GG)
74.) The Madness of H.P. Lovecraft, written by D.W. Dillon
75.) The Breadwinner, written by Connor Campbell
76.) The Jersey Widows, written by Maia
77.) POZ, written by James Somerton
78.) A Work of Fiction, written by Douglass Reese
79.) E.L., written by Daniel Crooke
80.) The Picture of Dorian Gray, written by Harry


Tune in tomorrow for the big winners!!!

I! Top 100's Best Actress, Supporting Actress and Director Winners

Hey all, Zgamer here. Look, I want to apologize for how this has been taking. I know I keep blaming college for this, which is technically true, but I should do better than what I have been doing. So, we're going to redeem the credibility of this by concluding it all in a three part event. I know people would like it better if I posted everything at once, but then where is the anticipation. So, every night at 9 for until Friday, we will unveil the remaining winners for each category. So let's start with the female acting and directing ones.

First, your choices for the Best Supporting Actress performances of all time:

1) Maggie Gyllenhaal (Behind Closed Doors)
2) Maribel Verdu (Borderman)
3) Amy Adams (Wackos)
4) Rachel Weisz (Faded Red)
5) Uma Thurman (Bandito Express)
6) Vera Feminga (Livestrong)
7) Lauren Bacall (Masterpiece)
8) Amy Sedris (Live From New York)
9) Meryl Streep (Book)
10) Miranda Richardson (The Assassination of Marget Thatcher)
11) Kristen Chenweth (Wicked (MAr.))
12) Julianne Moore (Dear Andrea)
13)Gretchen Mol (The Jersey Widows)
14) Rito Moreno (Havena Dreams)
15) Lindsay Lohan (The World's Longest Suicide)
16) Naomi Watts (A Child of Shame)
17) Kathy Bates (Rabbit Hole)
18) Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio (The Killer Eagles)
19) Maggie Smith (Negatives)
19) Suzuka Ohgo (Owner of a Lonely Heart)
21) Tabu (Break Before Bend)
22) Cher (Seven Days to the Weekend)
23) Maggie Cheung (Imagine)
24) Mary Louise Parker (The Wishbones)
25) Tilda Swinton (The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time)

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Next, your vote for the Best Actresses performances of all time:

1.) Jeanne Tripplehorn for Gone Since November (O, GG)
2.) Kelly MacDonald for The Madness of Lady Macbeth (O, NBR, SAG, F)
3.) Toni Collette for The Poisonwood Bible (O, NBR, GG, SAG)
4.) Susan Sarandon for Dear Mr. President (O, GG)
5.) Naomi Watts for Marilyn (GG)
6.) Emily Blunt for Warner Girls (GG)
7.) Anika Noni Rose for Dinah Was...
8.) Marion Cotillard for Once a Queen (O, NBR, GG)
9.) Cate Blanchett for The Killer Eagles (O, NBR, GG, SAG, F)
10.)Betty White for E.L. (GG)
11.) Reese Witherspoon for The Awakening (GG, SAG)
12.) Jennifer Connelly for Quiet Room (O, GG, F)
13.) Kate Winslet for Midnight Mass (GG, SAG)
14.) Maria Bello for Once a Hero
15.) Meryl Streep for No Way To Treat A First Lady (GG)
16.) Sandra Bullock for Dear Andrea (O)
17.) Mary Louise Parker for Cigarette Burns (GG)
18.) Catherine Keener for A Child of Shame (O, GG)
19.) Emma Thompson for Lucky Clover
20.) Naomie Harris for The Night Shift (O, NBR, GG, SAG)
21.) Stockard Channing for Mermania (O, GG)
22.) Kerry Washington for Six Days in ’67
23.) Christina Ricci for Wildflower (O)
24.) Ellen DeGeneres for The Realmother (GG)
25.) Natalie Portman for Fresh Heir Vol. III (O)


--------------

Finally, your vote for the Best Director choices of all time:

1. Quentin Tarantino for Bandito Express (O, GG)
2. David Lynch for Sweet Black and Blue (O)
3. Peter Weir for Jackrabbit (O, GG)
4. Roman Polanski for The Valley of Ashes (O, GG, F)
5. Tim Burton for Dali (O, GG)
6. Stephen Frears for Mario Puzo's The Family (NBR)
7. Clint Eastwood for The Killer Eagles (NBR, GG, F)
8. Joe Wright for Cinematheque
9. Mike Nichols for The Arabic Cafe (O, GG)
10. James L. Brooks for A New Agenda
11. Steven Soderberg for Sandstorm (O, GG)
12. M. Night Shyamalan for Dominion (GG)
13. Pedro Almodavar for Destiny
14. Darren Aronofsky for Flashes
15. Stephen Gaghan for River City Blue (O)
16. Ang Lee for The Winter Sun (GG)
17. Bernardo Bertolucci for Magic Latern (O, NBR, GG, F)
18. Paul Thomas Anderson for Live From New York
19. Steven Speilberg for The Wall (GG)
20. Noah Baumbach for Wackos
21. Robert Benton for Broken Pieces
21. Jane Campion for The Awakening
23. Sidney Lumet for The World's Longest Suicide
24. Hayao Miyazaki for Pride of Baghdad (GG)
25. Bernardo Bertolucci for Cherry Blossom


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Ok, that is part one for you. Tune in tomorrow night when we unveil the male actors and bring out more of the Top 100 baits of all time.

August Oscar Watch: A Big 8 Rundown

The Bait an Oscar community waited axciously for ended up being hours for the Oscar nominatinos, and much to our surprise, there were a ton of HUGE surprises this month. So here at I! we thought we'd give our view on this month's nominations with a few predictions as well.

Best Adapted Screenplay
La Bella y La Bestia
Cry to Heaven
**The Film Club**
Sands of Mars
Sweetest Girl

This month, I think the actual Big 8 nomination count will influence how the Academy voted. In the cast here, The Film Club recieved the highest amount of Big 8 Oscar nominations (5) and I think it is the clear frontrunner here regardless of nominations. However, in this month full of surprises, I wouldn't be extremely shocked if La Bella y La Bestia took home this award. Traditionally, Adapted Screenplay has had a clear frontrunner, yet another bait comes along and wins.

Winner: The Film Club
Spoiler Alert: La Bella y La Bestia


Best Original Screenplay
American Hollow
Blackbirds
**Chateau Marmont**
Cloverleaf
The Drifter

A strong category this month with 2 close competitors duking it out for the win. My guess is the Cloverleaf and Drifter are long shots here, and that Blackbirds remains in the race because this is probably the Big 8 category it has the biggest chance in. American Hollow will probably lose to Chateau Marmont here, in a somewhat surprisings upset. By the way, where is Trick?

Winner: Chateau Marmont
Spoiler Alert: American Hollow

Best Supporting Actress
Cate Blanchett, Cloverleaf
**Marie-Josee Croze, Chateau Marmont**
Anna Faris, No One Knew Her Name
Janeane Garofalo, The Film Club
Natalie Portman, Sands of Mars

First off, WHERE IS EMILY BLUNT? I'd argue one of the biggest snubs of the year considering that she won the Golden Globe and was nominated at the SAG's. However, without her I think Croze will take the gold for her double SAG award winning performance in the masterpiece Chateau Marmont. Don't count out Garofalo though, if The Film Club ends up on a losing streak at the Oscars, look for her to win the category. I also wouldn't completely count out Portman who shines in Sands of Mars, the vote could split between the two titans baits (Croze and Garofalo) and she could sneak in.

Winner: Marie-Josee Croze, Chateau Marmont
Spoiler Alert: Janeane Garofalo, The Film Club

Bset Supporting Actor
Warren Beatty, Cloverleaf
Robert Duvall, American Hollow
Peter Facinelli, Cry to Heaven
**Paul Schneider, American Hollow**
Anton Yelchin, The Film Club

A tough category this month, seeing as American Hollow could easily rule the category, or split their vote allowing Yelchin to sneak in and win. I'm going to bet however that Schneider wins the Oscar this month, and Yelchin comes in a not so distant second. Plus, WHERE THE DEVIL IS TIMOTHY HUTTON?! He slowly moved his way up to frontrunner status and then completely was skipped over for a nomination. Even funnier, a multitude of Oscar voters have said that 1. they put him on their ballot and 2. They had marked him down as the winner of the category. Bait an Oscar conspiracy...

Winner: Paul Scheider, American Hollow
Spoiler Alert: Anton Yelchin, The Film Club

Best Actress
Blythe Danner, No One Knew Her Name
Sarah Michelle Gellar, Chateau Marmont
**Mary Steenburgen, The Drifter**
Julia Stiles, Trick
Tang Wei, Losing Xiang

Danner may be considered the frontrunner here now that Regura was amazingly snubbed, but I'm putting my money on Steenburgen to take the Oscar this month in a truely great performance, and this will probably be the only place that The Drifter wins an Oscar this month.

Winner: Mary Steenburgen, The Drifter
Spoiler Alert: Blythe Danner, No One Knew Her Name

Best Actor
Hank Azaria, The Film Club
Javier Bardem, La Bella y La Bestia
Leonardo DiCaprio, Blackbirds
Tommy Lee Jones, The Drifter
**Nick Stahl, American Hollow**

My personal pick for Best Actor is somehow missing this list, which to me is unbelieveable considering Gaspard was brilliant in Chateau, but we're left with this list and I really believe that this will be as expected and Nick Stahl will pick up a much deserved Oscar for his performance in American Hollow. Azaria will probably remain a distant second for his role in The Film Club.

Winner: Nick Stahl, American Hollow
Spoiler Alert: Hank Azaria, The Film Club

Best Director
Peter Bogdonavich, The Drifter
Francis Ford Coppola, American Hollow
Cameron Crowe, The Film Club
**Guillermo Del Toro, La Bella y La Bestia**
Christopher Nolan, Blackbirds

In one of the bigger Best Director races in Bait an Oscar history, many are predicting a two horse race for the statue, the two horses being Coppola and Crowe. While in that race I'd probably give the edge to Crowe, something tells me that there vote will split and the artistic vision of Guillermo del Toro will lead him to the podium at the ceremony.

Winner: Guillermo del Toro, La Bella y La Bestia
Spoiler Alert: Cameron Crowe, The Film Club

Best Picture
American Hollow
La Bella y La Bestia
Chateau Marmont
The Drifter
**The Film Club**

This is undoubtably one of the hardest Best Picture races to predict within recent memory and will go down as one of the most historic wins in Bait an Oscar history. I almost immeadialy elimiate Bestia and Drifter from the list, because the three titans that will likely rule the Oscar this month, dominate the category. Each have multiple things going for it, American Hollow has the biggest number of nominations, Film Club has the reviews and the awards success (see the Festival and the Golden Globes, and Chateau has the reviews and some awards success. My pick to win ends up being The Film Club, which will be Brian's first BOTM win in a very very long time. However, I'm going to guess that Chateau will probably come in second and the possible spoiler is American Hollow.

Winner: The Film Club
Spoiler Alert: American Hollow

I!'s 2nd Annual Top 100 Baits of All Time (#90-81)

Announcer: For over two years, Bait an Oscar has awed, enlightened and entertained audience and authors alike. The concept was simple: create your dream Oscar winning movie. What it became, however, is something for the history books. Ranging from the ensemble dramas to witty satires to whimsical fantasies, the stories written by these authors will surely be the audience and critical darlings they are meant to be. These are truly ‘the greatest films never made”. So without further ado, we bring you I’s Second Annual Top 100 Baits of All Time Tribute Ceremony!

(Montage segment)

Announcer: Once again, please welcome the one, the only, the nerdy: Zgamer.

(Zgamer walks through one of the doorways of the Hall of Baiting and faces the camera)

Zgamer: Geez, we really need a map here. Ok, tonight we have the continuation of our ceremony celebrating the Top 100 Baits ever written. We have received the votes, scoured the forums and compiled together the following section.

Before we start, I want to thank you for your continued patience and I especially want to thank my partner Bryce and this section’s comment volunteers (and BOTM winners) Alex S. and Harry. So here are your choices for the 90th to 81st best baits ever.

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#90

Alex S.- Even if Michael's musicals are seen now with a little resentment, “Into the Woods” is one of the best executed adaptations from stage, dealing with a complicated story difficult to translate to movie terms, “Into the Woods” was a humble and uplifting musical that never pretended to be something it wasn't and that was its greatness.

Announcer: Released back in December 2007, this acclaimed Stephen Sondheim musical shines a new light on the lives of such classic fairy tale characters like Cinderella and Little Red Riding Hood. Finally getting a big screen adaptation, Michael took the Tony winning musical and added a top-notch cast and crew to the mix.

Harry- I had loads of fun reading “Into the Woods”. It is a musical, but also a nice tribute to fairy tales with references to the little red Riding Hood and Rapunzel among others. My favorite part of the bait is some of the casting, particularly Amy Adams as the princess with very long hair. Her voice and talents would shine in this role. Rob Marshall, while being a little safe, would truly work. In “Chicago”, he proved that he could be an actor’s director with the musical genre. I don’t see why he couldn’t continue showing this with this project. As a whole, “Into the Woods” is a fun bait with a nice plot structure.

Announcer: Though it took a while, “Into the Woods” became one of the month’s hits thanks to its cast and entertaining subject matter. After a good precursor run, the bait became a surprise Oscar darling by nabbing the #8 spot and a win for Adapted Screenplay. Most people still consider this Michael’s best musical adaptation so far.

Zgamer- Musicals are particularly hard to do in Bait an Oscar and Michael took a risk by doing one of the most unbaity musicals ever. Thankfully, it just so happens to be one of the best musicals ever and Michael did his very best to do justice to the material. I love his casting choices and after seeing the musical on stage, I’m sure I’d be very entertained seeing it in the theaters.

(#90-INTO THE WOODS, WRITTEN BY MICHAEL)

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#89

Zgamer: Batman? You’d think that would be a sign for failure. But oh boy, how wrong we were when we all read Tony’s “Scars of Tomorrow”. Not only is it one of the most entertaining baits ever written, but it has an inspired cast, crew and story that give the bait that distinct Tony feel to it. Thank goodness “Batman Begins” came out before this, because it just makes the bait that much better.

Announcer: Released in July 2007, “Batman: Scars of Tomorrow” brings another reinvention to the Batman mythos. However, Tony skips the origin story to go straight to the action, following Batman attempt to combat villains Two-Face and the Black Mask. Directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet and with such stars as Billy Crudup, Ralph Fiennes and Benicio Del Toro, this had all the potential for a blockbuster hit.

Alex S.- Through his career Tony is known for always pushing the envelope in terms of storytelling and his first attempt with a familiar story was no different. With brilliant casting and kick**s villains, this Batman actually prepared us for this summer, without fears Tony gave us a gripping story.

Announcer- Hot off of good Festival buzz, Batman found great support from the readers. Many pointed out the all-star cast, compelling storyline and distinct style as sources of its success. However, the most praised aspects were the casting of the villains, with Fiennes as the tormented Two-Face and Del Toro as the insidious Black Mask. While it was never considered an Oscar vehicle (and still really isn’t), it found the right support to place #7 in the month and easily nab a Box-Office Success award.

Harry- This bait has two of my favorite supporting performances ever. It’s curious since both Ralph Fiennes and Benicio Del Toro play villains. “Batman: Scars of Tomorrow” is Tony’s masterpiece that chronicles Batman’s adventures and how Black Mask and Two-Face, the two previously mentioned villains, came to be. The bait’s character development is extraordinary and psychological. Jean-Pierre Jeunet is a fascinating director choice considering his film “The City of Lost Children” and Billy Crudup is also great casting. Tony proved that a superhero film could be taken seriously at the contest.

(#89- BATMAN: SCARS OF TOMORROW, WRITTEN BY TONY)

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#88

Harry- Cinema is seen as art by some and as an industry by others. “Buzzed”, Zgamer and Chris P.’s fresh parody, is bashing the industry. This bait’s accomplishment is to achieve its goal by being symbolic rather than manipulative. Patrick Layton, the bait’s principal character, isn’t making a film for himself. All he wants is that his film wins an Oscar. To achieve this goal, the studio’s head decides to hire a film critic to write fake reviews in the Internet and assure the film’s Oscar buzz. While the bait’s story is lots of fun, if you look closer, the bait is defending cinema as an art and attacking cinema as an industry. Jason Reitman is a solid directing choice and the bait’s ensemble is simply perfect. All of this reminds us why “Buzzed” is the only team bait to ever win BOTM.

Announcer: Released in November 2007, “Buzzed” was the combined brainchild of Chris P. and Zgamer. The story centered on a satirization of the Oscar season, where a director and studio construct an elaborate plot to push their movie to an Oscar win. Directed by rising comedy director Jason Reitman and led star Jason Bateman, Andy Griffith and J.K. Simmons, “Buzzed” was poised to sink its fangs into corporate Hollywood.

Zgamer- To this day, I still attribute the success of this bait to Chris. He came up with the idea, he got most of the cast and he was the one who helped promote its success. I feel like I was just along for the ride. The BOTM win was pretty much his. But I’m glad that it all worked out in the end and I’m especially glad I was able to help Chris along his way to becoming the author he is today.

Announcer: Though it got off to a shaky start, “Buzzed” slowly worked its way into the hearts of its readers. Many found the bait to be quite funny thanks to its sharp writing and SAG winning cast, with stars Griffith, Simmons and Cloris Leechman earning the most praise. Come Oscar time, Buzzed surprised everyone by leaping into the BOTM spot while also winning awards for its Online Campaign and Original Screenplay. To this day, “Buzzed” remains the only team bait to win the big prize and one of the best satires in the competition.

Alex S.- Movies spoofing Hollywood are common, movies that do it right are rare. With a fantastic cast and a hilarious and quirky storyline, “Buzzed” is one of the best comedies released in the contest. Aiming for natural laughs instead of artificial humor, this is a great accomplishment.

(#88-BUZZED, WRITTEN BY CHRIS P. AND ZGAMER)

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#87

Zgamer- I remember reading “Steamboat Disney” for the first time back in August and thinking to myself “Why hasn’t this been made already?” Well, Daniel showed how it should be done. With an expert crew, great writing and a stellar casting of David Strathairn, this remains one of my favorite biopics of the competition.

Announcer: Released in August 2006, “Steamboat Disney” took a look into the life of animation pioneer Walt Disney. From his service in the war to his early success in animation to the opening of Disneyland, the legend’s life is fully realized thanks to the dedicated direction of a certain George Clooney.

Harry- Daniel’s storytelling is simple, yet emotionally profound. “Steamboat Disney” is one of the most heartfelt biopics I have ever read in the contest. During the inauguration of the Walt Disney Resort, Disney begins to remember moments of his life. This is one of the most intimate biopics, as it tells the story from its main character’s viewpoint, making it have more depth. Now, I don’t think I need to talk about the perfection of David Strathairn’s casting as Walt. Daniel then picks George Clooney to direct him like in “Good Night, and Good Luck.” Daniel can achieve such greatness with such ease, portraying depth from the simplest things.

Announcer: “Steamboat Disney” met with great praise in a month full of great baits. Serving as a companion piece to his other biopic “I, Bergman”, the bait thrived thanks to the help of Clooney and lead star Strathairn in what is considered one of the best performances of the competition. Then it came with one of the most shocking omissions ever as Strathairn missed the shortlist. Fortunately, the bait still succeeded enough to place #6 in the month and helping Daniel get his first Author win. One of the first biopics to stand out in Bait an Oscar, it remains one of the best too.

Alex S.- One of the best biopics in past years, the amazing story of Walt Disney was perfectly told by its helmer George Clooney and in a second collaboration Disney is flawlessly portrayed by David Strathairn. Dan Futterman's words are able to capture our attention and hearts in the telling of a story that changed the world forever.

(#87- STEAMBOAT DISNEY, WRITTEN BY DANIEL CROOKE)

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#86

Zgamer- Josh P.’s career has been one of ups and downs. While I can’t say I consider this his greatest ever, “Paradise Lost” is definitely one of the most ambitious baits ever attempted. With an epic scope and a competent director choice, this could prove to be an interesting film if made. Sure, some may say its not perfect, but I give him props for being the only one to actually give it a shot. Plus, how often do you see a bait tackle religion in such a unique way?

Announcer- Released in April 2008, “John Milton’s Paradise Lost” details a complex story depicting the literal confrontation between God and Satan for the control of man’s destiny. Helmed by director Ang Lee and with such stars as Eric Bana and Jeremy Irons, “Paradise Lost” hoped to end Josh’s prolific career with a bang.

Harry- It is a shame Josh P. left. His casting, crew choices and storytelling were all impeccable. “Paradise Lost” is no difference; it is a religious epic that, if made as a film, would certainly be a grand spectacle with amazing visuals and solid acting. Ang Lee is the perfect directing choice and the crew is extremely impressive. “John Milton’s Paradise Lost” was the final great bait of a great author.

Announcer- “Paradise Lost” opened to a mixed reception. While many tried to point out flaws in the writing and the overblown cast, there were many who praised the bait for its epic story, Lee’s directing and Irons tour de force performance as the Almighty. Come Oscar time, “Paradise Lost” found good success, tying for #7 of the month and earning a prize for its Box-Office Potential. Though Josh is no longer active, we at least have baits like this to remember how great an author he really was.

(#86-PARADISE LOST, WRITTEN BY JOSH P.)

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#85

Harry- There have been amazing stories in Bait an Oscar. Brian’s “Ashes of Elmwood” can be included among those stories. It is the story of Suzanne Elmwood, a woman who gets kidnapped while being with her boyfriend Sean, and how her mysterious return affects the lives of the people around her. I saw images in my head as I read the synopsis, dark images that portrayed humans and their psychological shocks. The cast is a dream with Björk being one of the most original casting choices Bait an Oscar has ever had. Sidney Lumet is the perfect director. This bait will surprise with its many unexpected twists, and an unrevealed ending.

Announcer- Released in May 2008, Brian’s deep drama on psychological scars centers on a cop’s investigation of a child abduction and how it ties many in his life to the scene. Directed by the legendary Sidney Lumet and led by Don Cheadle, Ellen Burstyn and singer Bjork, this was a story with a point to make.

Alex S.- With it's complex story and excellently defined characters, this story holds your attention from beginning to end and distinguishes itself as one of the best baits of that month with an amazing performance by Bjork.

Announcer- While May was not geneally considered a competitive month, Ashes found a way to stand over the crowd. While it received praise for many things, it is universally acknowledged that Bjork’s Oscar winning performance that garnered its #3 of the month and Original Bait win and sealed its fate as a classic. Easily another great bait Brian can add to his illustrious profile.

Zgamer- Funny that it has been two months since this bait’s release because I still vividly remember Bjork’s performance. She was pretty much the reason why I loved this bait so much, as it was one of the most inspired casting choices I’ve seen. Add to that the fact the bait was really well written and you have pure Brian.

(#85- ASHES OF ELMWOOD, WRITTEN BY BRIAN ERICKSON)

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#84

Alex S.- This remake of “Day of the Jackal” succeeds in taking us back to the amazing 70's when this kind of movies were more than just action movies but also gives us a feel of the renovated genre by movies like “Casino Royale” or “The Bourne Ultimatum”. A very concise storytelling and a brilliantly assembled cast & crew make this filck something more.

Announcer- Released in December 2007, “Day of the Jackal” reinvents the Frederick Forsyth novel and previous film to tell a thrilling story of an attempt to foil a presidential assassination. Directed by Martin Campbell and led by new James Bond Daniel Craig, this thriller hoped to bring old school action back to the Oscar stage.

Zgamer- Ok, I don’t agree with some of the details of this bait, but you have to admit that this was a pretty thrilling story. I mean really, after “Casino Royale”, I’m positive that Campbell and Craig would do a great job keeping the audience at the edge of your seats.

Announcer- “Day of the Jackal” opened to stellar reviews from the get go, with many praising the compelling story and Campbell’s directing the most. After a good precursor run, “Day of the Jackal” proved to be an Oscar darling when it earned the #2 of the month, along with wins for Box-Office Potential and director Campbell. In a world where remakes usually are not good, Adam proved they can work.

(#84- DAY OF THE JACKAL, WRITTEN BY ADAM)

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#83

Zgamer- Whether you love or hate Pat as an author, you have to admit he does write some great baits. I personally feel “Border Man” is one of Pat’s purest hits because it succeeds with what it doesn’t tell us. It sets the stage, gives us the characters and gives us the motives. All it asks of us is to figure it all out. Luckily, he employed a great cast to carry the weight of the bait.

Announcer- Released in July 2007, “Border Man” delves into a story of interracial relationships as a border patrol cop gets involved with the girlfriend of a notorious drug lord. Directed by Alejandro Gonzalez Innaritu and led by Tom Berenger and Maribel Verdu, “Border Man” brought a needed amount of romantic tension to the Oscar race.

Alex S.- “Border Man” was interesting approach to a familiar theme. Though some aspects of the overall story were less than stellar, the bait achieved to tell a human story with two fantastic characters, Maribel Verdu won her Oscar deservedly and Tom Berenger had a memorable comeback.

Announcer- “Border Man” opened to great praise from the public thanks to its simple but effective storytelling and a great cast of lesser known and former stars. After a great precursor run, “Border Man” became an Oscar hit by ranking #3 of the month and picking up a prize for Verdu’s supporting turn as the drug lord’s girlfriend. Pat’s reputation may be slightly tarnished in the eyes of many authors, but his work still speaks for itself.

(#83- BORDER MAN, WRITTEN BY PAT)

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#82

Alex S.- A story filled with so much symbolism, “Tabula Rasa” is one of the best epics and one of the most original baits I’ve ever read. Taking the theme of the anti-Christ has never been this exciting and more interesting. A visually arresting and breathtaking picture that never ceases to amaze you with every frame.

Announcer- Released back in October 2007, “Tabula Rasa” is Tony’s unique tale detailing a priest’s decent into madness and his new crusade to be the anti-Christ on Earth. With inspired directing and cast choices, “Tabula Rasa” was bound to cock some eyebrows.

Harry- I will first begin with the poster. It left me speechless. It is such an artistic achievement, with such a breathtaking style. Now, I move into the story. “His awakening chose his path. His war will choose his legacy”. This is a dark, gritty story about a priest who, after beginning to feel hate through a surreal hallucinatory sequence, begins to make bad actions including war. Randall Wallace is the screenwriter and Zack Snyder is the director. Both of these chose work incredibly well as a team. Jude Law is perfect casting. The writing is poetry, entering into the reader’s mind, penetrating disturbing yet beautiful images. This is one of the grand achievements of Bait an Oscar and another masterpiece in Tony’s incredible career.

Announcer- Upon release, “Tabula Rasa” was embraced by the public for being an epic and daring bait. Readers loved its superb story, excellent poster and Jude Law’s lead performance. A critical and precursor darling, “Tabula Rasa” went on to pick up the #7 on the month spot and win prizes for Best Poster and Original Screenplay. To this day, this remains among some of Tony’s most acclaimed work, which is saying a lot considering his profile.

Zgamer- Pretty much, I was sold when I saw that poster. In that simple yet detailed square, you saw everything that this bait had to offer. Style, professionalism, mood, maybe even some controversial stuff. It’s exactly the stuff Tony built his acclaim with and it all served the bait well.

(#82- TABULA RASA, WRITTEN BY TONY)

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#81

Harry- Recently, there has been an author with a passionate talent writing baits that go into the reader’s emotions. His breakthrough bait “Revenant Dreams” is easily among the finest baits this contest has ever had. “Owner of a Lonely Heart” is another profound summation to Jeffrey’s fascinating career. It is tells the true story of a Japanese teenage girl who gets kidnapped by Korean spies and then becomes one of them herself. The synopsis takes its time developing itself. It never lets you go until the bait’s strong climatic finale. The press section is a wonder as it perfectly depicts how these real events would be handled on screen. “Owner of a Lonely Heart” is emotional.

Announcer- Released in April 2008, “Owner of a Lonely Heart” was Jeffrey’s successful follow-up to his breakthrough hit Revenant Dreams. This true story, told as a foreign film, follows the life of a young Japanese girl kidnapped by North Koreans and her struggles growing up in that environment. Headed by an all Japanese cast and crew, it’s easy to believe that many may have been warded off by such a foreign bait.

Alex S- A marvelous story, constructed with perfection and brilliantly acted, this is one of the best foreign movies in the past years. With a story that translates in essence to every part of the world, “Owner of a Lonely Heart” excels in creating a true human story we all loved to witness.

Announcer- “Owner of a Lonely Heart” opened to great reviews from the community. Though some criticized certain flaws within the story, most everyone enjoyed the baits emotional storytelling and the fact it was a truly compelling foreign film. As Oscar time approached, its following was convinced it would become the big winner of the month. While that claim did not hold true, the bait did place #6 of the month, along with earning deserved prizes for Best Original Character and Awards Campaign. This was, and still is, one of the best examples of foreign filmmaking the contest has to offer.

Zgamer- I admit, I never heard of a single person in this bait. Thankfully, I was pleasantly surprised upon reading it, because it was actually really good. I didn’t like the ending so much, but it was still an emotional rollercoaster and really made me connect with Japanese filmmaking. Plus, how often do you see an excellent foreign bait in the competition?

(#81- OWNER OF A LONELY HEART, WRITTEN BY JEFFREY)

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Zgamer: Thus we conclude this section of the ceremony. We are still hard at work keeping the ceremony on its feet and promise to keep bringing you the baits that made it over the next weeks. I also wish to thank my volunteers again for all their help. So until next time, we wish you a good night and the best of luck to this and future baiting.

Recap of tonight’s winners:

::#90. INTO THE WOODS, WRITTEN BY MICHAEL::

::#89 BATMAN: SCARS OF TOMORROW, WRITTEN BY TONY::

::#88 BUZZED, WRITTEN BY CHRIS P. AND ZGAMER::

::#87 STEAMBOAT DISNEY, WRITTEN BY DANIEL CROOKE::

::#86 JOHN MILTON’S PARADISE LOST, WRITTEN BY JOSH P.::

::#85 ASHES OF ELMWOOD, WRITTEN BY BRIAN ERICKSON::

::#84 DAY OF THE JACKAL, WRITTEN BY ADAM::

::#83 BORDER MAN, WRITTEN BY PAT::

::#82 TABULA RASA, WRITTEN BY TONY::

::#81 OWNER OF A LONELY HEART, WRITTEN BY JEFFREY::