Will we see an edgier Oscars ceremony this year? We have to wonder with the choice of Hamish Hamilton as director. The 43-year-old Brit is known for directing videos for such musicians as Christina Aguilera, the Rolling Stones, U2, Motley Crue and Whitesnake. He also directed the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards, as well as the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in 2008. Maybe edgy is what they're going for in 2010. Co-producer Bill Mechanic said that Hamilton's approach "definitely won't feel like 'business as usual.'"
It makes sense to bring in a fresh take because --with the exception of the 2009 telecast -- viewership for the Oscars has fallen in recent years, partly because there are so many film and TV awards shows to keep track of these days.
Oscar producers are also trying to appeal to a younger, MTV-centric crowd. In 2009, they brought in 'Wolverine' himself, Hugh Jackman, and for 2010, Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin will bring the funny as hosts.
They're also shuffling off some of the awards to separate ceremonies. At an intimate dinner ceremony last Saturday, Governor's Awards were given to producer Roger Corman,'Godfather' cinematographer Gordon Willis, actress Lauren Bacall and 'The Da Vinci Code' producer John Calley.
Check out some of Hamilton's work on his YouTube channel. The 82nd Academy Awards will air live on ABC March 7, 2010, from the Kodak Theatre.
How do you feel about Hamilton directing the 2010 Oscars? Does the event need a fresh take, or will it lose some of the Hollywood glamour?
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