Where's the Oscar buzz for 'Children of Men'?

J A L Wed, Jan 31, 2007 at 05:35 PM EST

A taste of the future? Indeed not...a taste of reality. By far...no, BY FAR the best movie and acting, of late. Look to those who are running the show behind the scenes in Hollywood (The Z's) they can't handle the truth. It's ALL tied together and it's too bad. Brillant movie! Clive's acting was supreme.

Danielle Tue, Jan 23, 2007 at 09:26 PM EST

Children of Men was incredible. I absolutely detest violence in films, and yet, this movie was an exception for me. And as a fan of Orwell and Vonnegut, this film probbed my mind and tear ducts.

The problem is that many people don't like to think, and this is a movie that requires thinking. This film hits very close to home, and I think scares people. It's also a very deep film and quite controversial.

I'm just really dissapointed in the Academy. When a movie like "Dreamgirls" is more widely accepted and acclaimed that "Children of Men," you gotta know something's wrong.

Liz Tue, Jan 23, 2007 at 09:12 PM EST

VERY disappointed that Children of Men was overlooked -- it WAS the best film of 2006!

MIke Tue, Jan 23, 2007 at 07:24 PM EST

I guess everyone is happy then that both dreamgirls and children of men didn't get nominated?

rbk Tue, Jan 23, 2007 at 03:03 AM EST

totally agree — especially think that Claire-Hope Ashitey deserves a best supporting actress nod — she was phenomenal.

I've heard many people describe the same "can't-shake-the-feeling" experience after seeing children of men, which I felt too, and movies rarely do that. (one friend of mine was at a job interview and the interviewer cut her short to say, "I'm sorry, I saw Children of Men last night and I really cannot do this interview right now.")

Clayton Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 10:14 PM EST

I definitely agree that "Children of Men" should get some nominations tomorrow. It was such an incredible and emotional journey. I also wish "The Fountain" would get a few nominations... I know it will probably get one for its score, but what about screenplay, actor for Jackman, or (dare I say it?) picture? To be honest, "The Fountain" is my favorite movie I've ever seen in theaters, with only a couple ("Casablanca" and "The Sound of Music") topping it on my all-time favorites list.

Jenn Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 09:07 PM EST

I saw Children of Men on its opening weekend of wide release, and i have no idea why more ppl dont know about it. Is it because its not a completely unrealistic movie and it hits close to home? I dont know, but the fact that it is being by passed for the awards it so truely deserves it just not right. Another reason that just cuz an actor or movie has 'Oscar Nominee' attached to it does not mean it is the rightful owner to that title.

Anne Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 06:52 PM EST

I had the same reaction when I left the theater last week: how has Children of Men been so unappreciated? It's a fantastic film! I was expecting it to be too long and depressing, but it was edited cleanly and managed to have both heart-stopping drama and witty humor.

TJ Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 05:36 PM EST

I agree. Both Pan's Labryinth and Children Of Men were THE best films of 2006, along with The Departed and The Queen. They were amazing stories that dealt with the human condition and soul, something Little Miss Sunshine certainly didn't do. If Children Of Men does not receive a Best Picture nomination, I will forever shun the Academy Awards. Why can't these movies come out sooner?

Fatima Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 05:08 PM EST

Erin- Love You I Do and Patience are also original songs from Dreamgirls

On topic- That a masterpiece like Children of Men will get topped by disposable calculated dreck like Little Miss Sunshine makes me want to rip off my face. I want that promotional LMS bus to crash in a burst of horrible flames.

Leslie Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 04:54 PM EST

Children of Men was incredible. I went to a matinee yesterday (too Slezak!), and have been thinking about it all day (and dreaming about it all night!). I REEEEEALLY hope it gets nominated. That, and Pan's Labyrinth (have seen it yet, but hear it's a-MAZing).

As for Dreamsgirls... Went, saw it, and agree. The 1st hour was EXCELLENT, and then it got kinda slow. I love musicals and all, but even I was thinking "Oh no! Here's ANOTHER song! They just sang one 2 seconds ago!" Musicals are great, but if they don't translate well into film, then all the sequins and flash won't matter. Chicago was far better than Dreamgirls.

Lex Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 04:28 PM EST

Dreamgirls is totally overrated. The first hour is good, then it devolves into a huge bore. J. Hudson and E. Murphy are good, sure, but this is definitely NOT a best picture. Hoever, I am prepared for it to hog up a slot that should otherwise go to Pan's Labyrinth (masterpiece) or Children of Men.

Why doesn't any oscar best pic prediction list have Letters from Iwo Jima on it? That topped most critics' lists...I don't think Babel will make the cut-- it got mixed reviews and bombed at the box office. Of course, the stodgy academy does love a Sweeping Epic of Perceived Importance, so maybe it will hog another slot.

redgie Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 04:23 PM EST

'Children of Men' is a REALLY good movie. I agree that it deserves Oscar props. Its been over a week since I saw it and I still feel sort of terrified that the bleak, horrible future potrayed in the movie is what awaits me. I cant get it out of my head! I havent seen any other movie recently that moved me that much.

Nick Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 04:21 PM EST

The Architect was an amazing movie but unfortunately it only played in i think like 8 theaters

Laura Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 04:13 PM EST

CBC: That is my point exactly. No one has seen The Painted Veil because they haven't been given a CHANCE to see it because it's been playing in very limited release for so long. Children of Men, on the other hand, has been playing on over 1,000 theaters for weeks now. I'm not trying to be snobby and blame the people, I'm blaming Warner who hasn't given the people a chance to see this movie - nor even told them of its existence.

CBC Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 04:09 PM EST

Laura get off you elitist high horse. I am with you on the lack of marketing but your snob comment about how none of us has seen it turns anyone off your post. A lot of us would love to see the movie but it hasn't gotten everywhere. It just opened in Boston and only at one theatre.

stefanie Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 04:00 PM EST

I agree with brandan that the illusionist and the prestige are both deserving... some really amazing movies to come out of the summer/fall season.

and I loved "children of men". "dreamgirls" is undeserving.

Laura Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 03:53 PM EST

The Painted Veil was the Best Movie of 2006. A powerful story about forgiveness and spiritual redemption, this movie was beautiful, poignant, haunting, mesmorizing, brilliant, everything - with terrific performances from all the actors.

You guys think that Children of Men isn't getting enough buzz - well let me tell you, most people don't even know that The Painted Veil even exists. Has anyone here seen this movie? Didn't think so. That's because Warner Independant has put out almost zero advertising for this film, and has given it basically no awards push - so far, it has only had about 3 FYC ads, while Children of Men has had at least 13 plus a Hollywood Reporter cover ad. The Painted Veil won a Golden Globe for best score, which you'd think would be an easy advertising hook, and yet STILL I see NO ads for this movie in the newspaper. Unbelievable. It is totally inexplicable why Warner is ignoring this movie. A true crime.

Eugene Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 03:42 PM EST

While Children of Men temporarily resided in the top spot of my list for 2006, the moving, lyrical nightmare of Pan's Labyrinth soared past it once I walked out of the theater wiping my eyes...a profound and beautifully made movie.

djm Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 03:38 PM EST

I loved Children of Men and was thinking the same thing - how is this movie getting over-looked? As for Dreamgirls - I agree with Vicky (although I don't think she should be talking about a movie she hasn't seen) - I think the performances were great and should be nominated I am not convinced it should be nominated for Best Film - especially if a film like Children of Men is not.

Jim Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 03:29 PM EST

Children of Men is a masterpiece. It should be lauded. However, Hollywood doesn't always recognize it's gold when the brass is much too shiney, and then soon forgettable.

Erin Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 03:22 PM EST

Oops. Ignore my last comment. I was thinking of another song from the film. Regardless, my guess is that "Listen" is the choice because it's Beyonce's song, and they thought that she would be the one to get the most press for the movie.

Erin Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 03:19 PM EST

NineDaves, "Listen" is the only original song in Dreamgirls. In order to be nominated for an Oscar, the song has to be written specifically for the movie. "Love You I Do" and all the rest, except "Listen" are from the original Broadway soundtrack.

Marie Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 03:18 PM EST

What an amazing film. If I do not see its name tomorrow morning, shame on the academy. This is a movie that actually made me think. And that's from a person who is counting the days for the Simpson movie!

brandan Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 03:11 PM EST

I think both "The Prestige" and "The Illusionist" are also films deserving oscar nomminees.

Ron Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 03:05 PM EST

I still can't get this movie out of my head and it's been two weeks since I've seen it. Here's hoping for a nomination too!

will Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 02:52 PM EST

I'm with you all the way, man. Children of Men is HANDS DOWN the best movie of the year and one of the best of this still maturing decade.

Vicky Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 02:51 PM EST

Wow. That's the first comment I've ever written that's pissed people off. I just read from various reviews and websites that while Dreamgirls was good, it wasn't great. Why should we reward a movie that's just good? Because it has a huge marketing campaign? Some movies just don't get that type of advertisement. And yeah, I probably shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but I honestly have no desire to see Dreamgirls. Critics awards or not. So I think I'll go to pre-order my ticket for COM and continue praise Pan's.

Verity Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 02:48 PM EST

Couldn't agree more. Children of Men is by far the best movie of 2006 (in a close second is Pan's Labyrinth) and deserves more recognition than it's getting. Even though it was a bleak look at the future, I thought it ended on a very hopeful note. Clive Owen gave the best performance of his career and deserves a nom, as does the entire film. I doubt it will happen though because of how late in the game it was to be released. It got swallowed up in the massive praises of other, bigger films so I am afraid it will get completely overlooked. And that is a real shame.

Joe Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 02:47 PM EST

While I'll agree that bashing a movie you haven't seen is irresponsible, let me also say this: I HAVE seen "Dreamgirls," and it's vastly overrated. Eddie Murphy should win an Oscar for it, and sure, Jennifer Hudson was swell. But the movie falls apart in its second hour. Meanwhile, while everyone is over-hyping "Dreamgirls," where's the love for the two movies that haunted me for days after seeing them. The first (and God bless you, Slezak, for pointing it out), was "Children of Men;" the second, which also seems hideously under-appreciated, is "Letters From Iwo Jima." When neither of those films is called tomorrow morning, the Oscars will - once again - be revealed as a sham and a popularity contest, instead of the true meter of quality they purport to be.

Emma Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 02:46 PM EST

I saw Pan's Labyrinth yesterday when it finally came to my city and I think it's one of the best movies I've seen in a long time. It's incredibly haunting and beautiful, and a little hard to watch which is why I think it will be overlooked. I agree with the poster who said Matt Damon should be nominated. I think he had a much better performance in the Departed than Leo and I haven't seen the Goos Shepherd yet but he has received some great reviews for that as well.

Jenn Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 02:43 PM EST

I am also shocked it's not getting more attention. This was an extraordinary movie and the cinematography was exquisite.

didi Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 02:39 PM EST

I also heard Dreamgirls was not that great. Fantastic article by NYT writer on how it is not Chicago, although it tries its damdest.
It's on NYT Select if anyone wants to look it up.

Chels Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 02:39 PM EST

Sing it! I loved this brilliant, beautifully filmed, well-acted film. Clive Owen is amazing and Cuaron's evocation of a world not so far from our own left me thinking well after the credits rolled. I am still digesting it weeks later and I can't believe such lyrical and graceful filmmaking would be ignored by Oscar!

Paige Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 02:32 PM EST

I stopped putting my faith in the critics groups and awards around the time "Green Card" racked up a bunch of Golden Globes.
So every year since, I've considered some Globes to be "Green Card" statues. It's definitely not the Oscar-precursor people call it, "Crash" wasn't even nominated I believe last year.

PJ Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 02:31 PM EST

I completely agree but I have a Plan. I am getting some friends together the night of the oscars and we are going to picket the arrivals with children of men signage. If no nomination for best picture, then join me!

Chuck Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 02:26 PM EST

Amen. Best film of 2006, and probably 2007. Loved it.

The Mexican Trio: Innaritu, Del Toro, and Cuaron. All three should win awards, far as I can see.

whatsonpop Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 02:24 PM EST

Vicky. Where have you been, you heard dreamgirls wasn't that good??? Every top ten list and critcs award I have seen say differently. Just wondering...

Rahul Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 02:19 PM EST

All this noise about the Academy pushing up their schedules should eventually trickle down to studios opening their films earlier so that people can get out there to see them on time so they can be considered for awards. Everyone should stop their whining and buy a day planner.

Justine Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 01:59 PM EST

Best movie of the year, bar none. I rarely care enough about a movie to give a sh*t about the Oscars, but I have two movies this year that make me so sad they are not going to be nominated! The other is "Pan's", which lives up to the hype in so many ways it's scary!

noneya Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 01:59 PM EST

I saw it, and it made me want to slit my wrists afterwards. Don't want to give any spoilers but let's just say it's the most depressing movie of all time. So no, I think I'll save my love for Dreamgirls, a movie I can watch without falling into despair.

V.M.L. Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 01:43 PM EST

I love you Slezak. We both think alike!

Anyway, its sad that CofM is not getting enough love. It was the best movie of 2006, in my opinion. It was gripping and I didn't even stop to think what time it was. Blame Universal for not promoting the movie to voters.

yssys Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 01:29 PM EST

I am hoping that the three amigos: Iñarritu (Babel), Del Toro (Pan's Laberynth) and Cuarón (Children of Men)will be nominated tomorrow in the Best Director Category, and that one of them win the oscar.

Jess Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 01:25 PM EST

Question: is the reason it won't be nominated is because it looks too much like an action movie? (Granted, a very well made, important to see action movie, but nonetheless...)

Liz Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 01:22 PM EST

CoM left me gasping for the shear brilliance of the plot. We've all seen SciFi where aliens threatan our existance, but this is a "fiction" that can certainly become a reality. What would we as humans do if we had no future?? The story is filmed, told and acted with an amazing realism. I went with my two teenage sons, and the proof a a movies power is in the ability to provoke real thoughtful debate amongst braindead teenages! Well done Alfonso, Clive, if the academy doesn't recognize you, you fans will.

jason Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 01:22 PM EST

It's not as though Children of Men hasn't become a hit. It's been a part of the top ten movies since it finally arrived in wide release. Pans Labyrinth will be nominated in the foreign category which is fine. Little Miss Sunshine is experiencing backlash but is definitely worthy, and its good to see comedy recognized - very rare. As far as what I would like to see nominated that hasn't been mentioned, Mark Wahlberg in Departed. Best performance of the year.

robin Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 01:19 PM EST

Children of Men is the only movie that I STILL think about even 3 weeks later. It's haunting and lovely and disturbing and beautiful. Universal really screwed up this campaign. Harvey W would have had it at the top of the list. Cuaron is a masterful filmmaker and deserves better!!!

toonces Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 01:15 PM EST

Aramis, I totally totally agree with your top nominations for Oscar! Very worthy movies, all of them, although I think Spain is making the mistake of submitting Almodovar for their film, so that takes him out of the running for best overall movie. Has to stay in Foreign.

I also have 'heard' that Dreamgirls is not that great and don't mind passing judgement on it without having seen it; though I do wish Jennifer Hudson, and especially Eddie Murphy, top wins.

Paige Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 01:15 PM EST

This is gonna have cult status for years and years. I don't remember anyone mentioning Oscar winner Million Dollar Baby since it won.

ccarollo Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 01:11 PM EST

Totally agreed. A nonexistent marketing campaign and a late release date has left this movie drifting. It turns my stomach that a movie like Dreamgirls (which I have seen and was fine entertainment but nothing special is riding a wave of buzz when spectacular, exciting, moving, thought-provoking films like CoM are igored.

aramis Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 01:05 PM EST

woh, what happened to my last comment? Grrr, it got all jarbled. Let me try that one again. 1)The Departed. 2)Pan's Labirynth. 3)The Queen. 4)Children of Men 5)Volver.

aramis Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 01:04 PM EST

In the world according to ME the best picture noms would be:The DepartedVolverPan's LabirynthThe QueenChildren Of MenI like those after repeat viewings in the last few weeks.

Fif Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 01:03 PM EST

I absolutely agree! Everyone knows the Academy Awards is more a popularity contest than honoring acheivements in film-making.

Chad Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:51 PM EST

wow I couldn't agree with you more....and on that note...what about he brilliant Pan's Labyrinth as well....both those movies were masterpieces and it looks like niether is getting the open recognition it deserves other than from critics....

NineDaves Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:50 PM EST

i would love to see some noms tomorrow for "stranger than fiction." maggie gyllenhaal was so compelling in that roll, and i don't know why she hasn't gotten more attention. also, i think "marie antoinette" deserves some recognition for costumes. those were amazing. and if i could speak with bill condon directly, and ask him to pull "listen" from the best song category and enter "love you i do" instead. it was a much better song!

Richard Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:48 PM EST

Amen. Thank you Mr. Slezak. Not only is it a thrilling film, shot exquisetly, but it goes way deeper into the study of the human condition than any film I've seen in a long, long time. How could an important movie such as this, which is really about The Meaning of Life, get so lost among its lesser peers?

Sally Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:46 PM EST

To Vicky: Re. Dreamgirls, "I heard that movie wasn't that great" - omg, somebody is passing judgement on a movie they haven't seen. I haven't seen COM and I would not dare comment on it. Having said that, it's too bad the academy can't step out of it's comfort zone and include categories like 'breakthrough child star' or even add a 6th movie to the roster. I disagree about Pan's, my favorite foreign movie was "Water" and if you see it, it will break your heart, but it's also very hopeful and uplifting.

g Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:45 PM EST

the best movie i saw all year...though i was quite partial to the Illusionist

Dennis Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:40 PM EST

Children of Men was possibly one of the most thrilling film experiences I have ever had. This is risky filmmaking at its best and when you really break it down, Alfonso Cuaron provided the kind of direction even the great Marty Scorcese couldn't match. How about some love for that seven minute long take during the ambush scene? Or even better, that final war sequence with the blood spattered camera lens? CoM is not only the best picture, it's also the best director and cinematographer. Along with its stars and production designs, all I can do is hope, and hope hard that the Academy sees what I see. Remember though, the golden globes and others have often chosen different titles than the oscars; remember when Sixth Sense and Green Mile got nominations out of nowhere. We'll just have to see. Thank you Slezak for putting the buzz out there and truly representing.

Miriam Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:39 PM EST

Children of Men was the best movie to come out in 2006. Period. But I can see why it's not an award show darling, unfortunately. It's the kind of movie the establishment will realize is truly great in 5 years or so. That said, if I could vote for it, I certainly would.

josh Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:37 PM EST

if/when CHILDREN OF MEN isn't nominated like crazy, it will only highlight the general pointlessness of the Oscars. In any sane world, it's a hands -down best picture nominee, if not winner.

jim Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:37 PM EST

I agree I watched Children of Men and was haunted by it for days afterwards. This was depressing but eye opening at the same time. Along with Pans Labryinth I would say those 2 movies should easily be up for Best Picture noms and Clive Owen should get a nom as well. I hope Dreamgirls does not get nominated that movie was ok not Oscar material.

Sarah Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:24 PM EST

"Children of Men" was my favorite movie of 2006. It's been weeks since I saw it, and I'm still talking about it with friends, debating issues and trying to recruit more people to go out and support it. I haven't seen "Dreamgirls" yet, and while I'm sure it's an entertaining and well-made musical, I'd put all my money on it not being half as beautiful, important and complex as "Men." I have my fingers crossed, too, but the Academy gave "Titanic" best picture over "L.A. Confidential," "Good Will Hunting" and "As Good As it Gets," and gave "Return of the King" best picture over "Mystic River." Sad. They don't always know what's best...

toonces Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:24 PM EST

I was going to ask the NY Times about this, but why is there no feature article/ piece on the increasing presence and incredible talents of the Mexican directors, Cuaron, del Toro, and Gonzalez Inarritu? (excuse the non-puncuations).
EW get on this, STAT. Or do I need to send an email as in the Grey's Anatomy fiasco- don't be late this time!

Blair Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:21 PM EST

This was the most eye opening movie I have seen in a long time. Much better than the too perfect Babel. I will not be surprised if it doesn't get nominated for an Oscar. The Academny Awards are something we should not base the quality of movies or performances on. Reese won last year...she beat out Felicity Huffman. Remember that. We shouldn't be too quick to forget Oscars passed. Just becase you win, doesn't mean you deserve it.

j.fo Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:16 PM EST

AGREED! CoM, "Pan's Labyrinth," and "the Departed" were the best pix this year. I think even mentioning Little Miss Sunshine in the same sentence is a joke. Plus, where is the supporting actor love for Bill Nighy in "Notes on a Scandal" and Danny Glover for "Dreamgirls?" This was definitely a really good year for movies - unfortunately, the awards season doesn't seem to be reflecting this year's great scope...

Delon Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:14 PM EST

I can't say it was the best thing i've seen this year, but it surely deserves recognition at the Oscars. But then again is there anybody left that thinks academy awards are credible?

Steve Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:13 PM EST

I don't normally watch this kind of movie (I don't like to pay to be depressed) but this movie shook me to my core. It is the most realistic look at a bleak future I have EVER seen. I have never understood what the big deal with Clive Owen was, but man did he deliver. It was certainly the surprise of the year for me and he certainly deserves an Oscar® way more than an American Idol castoff.

Dduellman Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:12 PM EST

I would love to see Children of Men, but it isn't even here. We would have to drive 1 1/2 hours to see it. My husband and I are just annoyed.

nathan Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:10 PM EST

In a perfect world, Best Picture noms would be:
The Departed
Children of Men
Pan's Layrinth
Letters From Iwo Jima
& Little Miss Sunshine.

Antonio Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:09 PM EST

I have to agree. Definitely my favorite movie of the last year. Its so sad that this movie might not get the love it deserves a la Oscar. How pathetic a world we live in that the marketing machine has once again come into play for an artistic award. Please Academy dont make another mistake and not nominate Children of Men. After last year's Crash win, I really am starting to see an Academy Award means absolutely nothing these days.....

carlos Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:06 PM EST

Children of Men and Pan's Labyrinth were the best movies I saw this past year, is a shame that Alfonso Cuaron and Guillermo del Toro, neither themovies, will get the recognition they deserve.

jen o. Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:02 PM EST

while reading the post about Little Miss Sunshine -- which was cute and entertaining, but that's it -- i was thinking the same thing as you: where is the love for Children of Men? it was without a doubt the best movie i've seen this year. i saw it two weeks ago, and i still feel its gloom around me.

graeme Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 12:00 PM EST

Yeah COM has gotten the shaft this season. It got a late release date and Universal wasn't expecting to have a winner on their hands that they now do. They put all the eggs in "The Good Shepherd" basket and didn't think COM would make much of an impact. It definitely has.
It still could get a Director nom, Screenplay nom and a few technical noms. It could be this year's "City Of God".

I also hope Matt Damon gets a nom (I do not understand how he's gotten ignored this season) and Sandra Bullock for "Infamous".

Jayel Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 11:59 AM EST

I was actually afraid of this movie - it looked like such a downer. But on MLK Day, when I finally had time to see a matinee, nothing else I wanted to see (such as Pan's Labyrinth or Miss Potter) had made it to my major market city, so I saw Children of Men sort of by default.

And loved it. I agree completely; this is far and away the most artful movie of the year, original and universal at the same time, warm and human and intelligent and scary. That it's being ignored in favor of the new versions of the usual suspects (we got the musical, we got the crime drama, we got the quirky little dysfunctional family comedy, we got the astonishing Brits playing real people) is heartbreaking.

I'll keep my fingers crossed.

kinglouieXVIII Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 11:59 AM EST

Slezak, word! I went into CHILDREN OF MEN thinking I would enjoy a cool, sci-fi, flick. I left truly blown away by one of the best (and most important) films of the last decade. Alfonso Cuaron has directed a truly unique movie that touches important global issues, while still being a thoroughly entertaining movie-going experience. Michael Caine is outstanding in a role that could have been a cartoon, but he makes it very touching. His last scene is so emotional and sad. And what about those awesome action sequences? THE MATRIX can't touch CHILDREN OF MEN!! P.S. I'm still holding out hope that STRANGER THAN FICTION (my 2nd fave of 06 gets some Oscar love)!

step Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 11:58 AM EST

I couldn't agree more. Children of Men is by far my favorite film of 2006, and the fact that it's getting almost no buzz is completely shocking to me. It's amazing.

Mozz Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 11:56 AM EST

Children of Men and Pan's Labyrinth should both be in one of those five Best Picture spots... unfortunately, the marketing machine that is at Oscar plays, has already made certain that the sub-par Dreamgirls is going to be a nominee. If there's any justice for great movies, Dreamgirls will not be in the five nominated films, making way for one of these two.

brandonk Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 11:55 AM EST

Well, being a habitual EW and EW.com reader, I've read a lot about "Children of Men," and it does sound good, but I haven't seen it yet. I'm sure that's the case for most other people, including Academy voters.

jojo the boy-faced dog Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 11:51 AM EST

Literally right before clicking on Popwatch, I sent an email with this line in it, re: Children of Men:

"I'm surprised it's not getting more award-season love."

It's a mystery, and a shame.

JA Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 11:49 AM EST

Children of Men is far and away the best movie of the year, so of course the Oscars will ignore it. Too busy blowing up Helen Mirren's skirt to notice anything else.

james Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 11:45 AM EST

i agree. along with ''pan's labyrinth'', this deserves recognition. superb direction and cinematography and a great performance from clive owen.

Jess Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 11:45 AM EST

In all the crazy buzz about Helen Mirren in "The Queen," people seemed to forget about Michael Sheen's amazing performance as Tony Blair. Mirren was great/subtle, but nowhere near as good as Sheen.

Vicky Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 11:44 AM EST

I'm kinda hoping that Dreamgirls will not get nominated. I heard the movie wasn't even that great. How is it racking up all these awards? If Jennifer Hudson was so good, then nominate her and not the movie. I wish Pan's Labyrinth will gets some lovin' tomorrow. That movie is still stuck in my head.

tyler Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 11:41 AM EST

So much word. While I liked those other films, Children just struck me in so many ways, and is just so....beautiful in its hopelessness. If it doesn't get nominated, then I don't see the Academy keeping any credibilty. See also Labyrinth, Pan's.

michael Mon, Jan 22, 2007 at 11:38 AM EST

the movie was amazing and definitely deserves SOME recognition!!!