I closed out the Best Actor category for the Oscars to see Richard Jenkins in a PPV of "The Visitor". I guess this falls into the realm of each major acting category has to have one nominee from a movie no one has seen. This was released last April and I'm willing to bet it played here for one week. It was written and directed by Tom McCarthy, who played a reporter on "The Wire". McCarthy also wrote and directed "The Station Agent", so he has that experience of getting major publicity for a film that slips under the radar.

This story involves a professor who has to go to New York for a conference. Upon his arrival, he finds his apartment occupied by an illegal alien couple. He befriends them and one of them eventually gets picked up by immigration. It was pretty good, and although Jenkins was nominated, I must have missed why his performance was such a standout.

Meal of Links

I was over at Luxe after the CSU game last Saturday. I liked their pizza very much, especially when I had leftovers the next day. I opted for my standard pepperoni and jalapeno. And the music was outstanding. Early Prince was featured. Neat bar, as well.

Thankfully, Tom Daschle gave up his bid to be HHS Secretary. The Obama administration can't preach change, then let all these tax scofflaws keep their posts. And the Press Secretary got absolutely roasted yesterday, so there were signs he had to go.

Not to be outdone, Bonnaroo releases its lineup. Where else are you gonna find Springsteen, The Ting Tings and Merle Haggard at the same place? They have an outstanding lineup.

Ridge Park hosts this year's AMC Oscar extravaganza. All the Best Picture nominees in one day. That's a ton of popcorn and a shitload of ICEEs. It's not a bad deal. All the movies and a large popcorn with unlimited refills for $30 ($25 for members). I'd probably go to one if it had all of the short films.

Free Diet Dr. Pepper.

The set of "General Hospital" is getting redone. Hell, I remember when Amy Vining was manning the gossip...er...nurses station.

Car Bombs. Not drinks. Cupcakes!

The Christian Bale Soundboard. "What don't you fucking understand?" amongst other gems.

"Idol" singers. Fake or delusional?

Exercise Yard

The US is actually bidding once again for the World Cup in 2018 or 2022. Back in 1994, I never thought I'd have to wait this long to see another one. BTW, less than 500 days to next year's World Cup in South Africa.

Today was also the day that the English Premier League received bids for the next three years of TV rights for the UK, 2010-2013. BSkyB says what recession and bids around $1.3 billion pounds. In 1992, the rights went for 38 million pounds, so good times for the EPL owners, including Randy Lerner.

US rights are determined at a later time.

Visitor

23 Across: Smart, to 99 (3 letters) Answer: Max