They got me.

I had an inkling of an idea of what to expect in “Conviction,” a new drama from Fox Searchlight pictures about Kenny Waters (Sam Rockwell), a man convicted of murder and the desperate lengths his sister Betty Anne (Hillary Swank) goes to in order to free him.  These desperate lengths include Betty Anne, a high school drop out, finishing her GED and proceeding all the way through Law School to be his lawyer and fought for his freedom. 

The film is based on a true story, and fits squarely in the drama category of films – it does not try and reinvent the genre, change how dramas are told, or throw in any new 3D effects.  It just tells a good story.

As with all true stories, the audience becomes engrossed in one question – how much of this is true, and what has been altered for storytelling and dramatic effect?  Reason being, the basic heart of the story seems so remarkable.  However, leaving those reservations at the door can be a prerequisite to enjoying or being let down by films of this type.

The Oscar’s held very little surprise, and what has already been written so far across “the internets” covers the highlights – MoNique and Sandra’s speeches, The Hurt Locker’s win, The Kanye moment, and the hosts.  It really was a predictable affair if you were to read up ever so little beforehand.

Oscar is continuing to mean very little to me other than a voting party with friends and family.  The revelation that people campaign for their nomination and win sucked a lot of air out of the festivities.  This isn’t your high school’s ASB, we can already judge your performance.  You don’t need to tell us what you will do for us this year, you already did it.  If your performance deserved it, then good for you – here’s a vote.  I understand the double edged sword.  Out of the loads of films to be considered, not everyone can actually see them all.  But if people aren’t taking the time to watch the films, doesn’t that diminish the value of the statue?