Who wants to watch all five Best Picture Oscar nominees in one sitting?

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Todd Wed, Feb 20, 2008 at 05:43 PM EST

Don't know if you're still interested in finding someone (or if you already have), but I figured I would throw my name out there one more time before Saturday. I am going to the marathon screening in Ohio on Saturday and if you're still in need, I'd be glad to offer my writing services. I promise to be full of snarkiness and totally made up words. Just a thought.

Jim in Kentucky Sat, Feb 16, 2008 at 08:41 PM EST

My wife and I have just come from seeing "Blood" and completing the five Best Picture nominees. For myself, I would rank them in this order: No Country slightly ahead of Blood, then Michael Clayton, with Atonement nosing out Juno for fourth. Both No Country and Blood are genuine masterpieces, and my thinking is colored by my worship of the Coens. My wife will not have the same opinion when she forms it; I know she absolutely HATED No Country. Since she doesn't appreciate a dark movie, I bet she finally goes for Juno, or possibly Atonement. Now, as to which one will actually get the votes ... hard decision. I won't go over all the classic Academy logic, except to throw out Atonement on the basis that its director wasn't nominated thus indicating soft support. Will the stodgy Academy voters choose NCFOM or TWBB? They typically don't go for violence. Juno is no more worthy than Sideways or Little Miss Sunshine, but MC seems not to have BP value either. We'll see on Oscar night.

Eric Melin Tue, Feb 5, 2008 at 11:18 AM EST

I am most definitely the man for the job. I'm the guy who wants always wants to go directly into another movie at the multiplex. I am the guy who goes straight from work right to the theater and has popcorn for dinner. But this? This is insanity. I have never done five pictures in a row. I smell not fear, but artificial butter flavoring- and those nifty new pizzas heated up in mysterious tin boxes. I forsee grim existentialism mixed with moral ambiguity and teenage confiusion, wrapped up in a soft, epic outer shell. I forsee machines stretching my eyelids open Malcolm McDowell-style. I was cured, alright! I feel compelled not just to go and write about the experience, but also to film and post video showing the inevitable physical toll that it will take. My local AMC theater is really cool about letting me film there. I have done it before for my website, www.scene-stealers.com. Sleep is overrated. And boring!

Kate Sun, Feb 3, 2008 at 11:06 PM EST

I was so ready to go to this last year! Opportunity lost. And here I am one year later, finally ready to commit myself to the potentially enlightening, likely numbing experience. I live in Cambridge MA and the showcase is playing in nearby Framingham. I still have never managed to see all the Best Picture Nominees before the ceremony, which I fondly refer to as my Super Bowl (though that's an really an understatement). I'm a huge fan of EW and would love to cover this for you. I'll do my best to do my favorite blog justice. And also- free popcorn!

Angela Sun, Feb 3, 2008 at 03:31 PM EST

My friend Amanda and I are going together. angelasauer@gmail.com

Greg Thu, Jan 31, 2008 at 05:18 PM EST

Oh sorry, I forgot to leave my e-mail address. It is grubi003@odu.edu

Greg Thu, Jan 31, 2008 at 05:18 PM EST

I would really like the opportunity to be a part of this because my goal is to one day write for Entertainment Weekly as a Movie Reviewer. Right now I am a sophomore in college and I am majoring in Communications. I'll be honest, I have already seen 4 out of 5 (Atonement is the odd movie out) of these films, so not much of it will be new to me, but that could be to your advantage because I would have more knowledge of the films. Movies are my life and I try to see at least one movie, sometimes two, every weekend unless there is nothing good coming out (like last weekend; Meet the Spartans, REALLY?). Anyway, I hope you choose me because this would be great practice for me. It might also help me get an internship this summer.

Chris Thu, Jan 31, 2008 at 01:53 PM EST

Dear EW.com,

Last year, I pleaded to your paper cousin to let me be your Best Picture nominee- marathon viewer. And despite my long list of entertainment-related calamities that I blamed on my college roommates, airplane sensors, and your cover with the Matthew McConaughey, I never heard back.

But I am not an unreasonable person. I understand. But this year, you really need to know what I need this job:

1. Britney can’t break into a movie theater, right? I don’t want a piece of her, and I can’t give her any more. She’s everywhere. I need a reprieve.

2. With the writer’s strike suddenly taking away all of my favorite programs (oh, The Office, I miss you so much!), I have much more free time. I actually voluntarily watched Deal or No Deal last night. Don’t you understand what this means?!

Chris Thu, Jan 31, 2008 at 01:52 PM EST

3. John Edwards dropped out of the presidential race! A day after I voted for him! I am not a happy camper. Getting this job will certainly cheer me up!

4. And, probably most importantly, I have to see so many terrible, terrible movies every year just because my friends want to go see them. Smokin’ Aces, 30 Days of Night, Saw VI, The Reaping, 300…the list goes on and on. Any chance to see a decent movie is heartily appreciated.

My local AMC theater is conveniently located just three blocks away from where I live, and it’s in the middle of Miami so it’s bound to be interesting. I’ll even take the new digital camera I got for Christmas, I promise!

Thanks,
Chris

Jessica Thu, Jan 31, 2008 at 11:24 AM EST

Please pick me! I'm a longtime film/awards season devotee who is trying to start up her own movie blog. I read popwatch religiously, particularly anything Michael Slezak live blogs. I'd love the chance to write something entertaining for popwatch as well as get in a last day comparison of the films all at once! (Picking a favorite for Best Picture this year is awfully hard!)

Rachel K Thu, Jan 31, 2008 at 10:22 AM EST

Alright, so I know I'm late in the game for putting my name out there but, I've been pondering whether or not I really want to do this. I mean, don't get me wrong, I love movies, my goal for several years has been to see every movie nominated for an Oscar before the Awards ceremony, no small feat for a small-town Wisconsin girl. However, after much thought I'm throwing my hat in the ring. I've seen four of the five nominees for best pic already and enjoyed every darn one of them. Enough so, that I'd see them all again in what I'm sure would be a movie-fest that would slowly desensitize me to all things violent and bloody (and let's not forget teenage pregnancy!). But to me, it's too good of an opportunity to pass up because there is nothing better than sitting down in a movie theatre waiting in anticipation to be taken on a journey that can invoke every emotion possible. So using the words of Meredith Grey: pick me, choose me, love me. (Well not really love me but you know what I mean)

Kymberly Thu, Jan 31, 2008 at 03:23 AM EST

"Who wants to watch all the Oscar movies in one sitting?" Why, I do. "Why should you pick me?" Let me tell you. I've already seen the movies, so I will be able concentrate on making that "movie marathon" experience come alive for those who can't be there, I am an experienced veteran at this, having attended AMC's inaugural session last year, and thus I know what not to do (such as eat too much before No Country for Old Men), and I totally think is sucks that Shakespeare in Love beat Elizabeth and that Crash beat Brokeback Mountain, so clearly, I have good taste in movies.

Jamie Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 10:53 PM EST

Do you pay for airfare? Here's why I ask. I live in what feels like the remotest part of the world. I am literally snowed into the valley I call home. The one movie theater in the town across the river (in another state) doesn't like to show "art house" films like Atonement, There Will Be Blood and Juno. We didn't get Michael Clayton until a few weeks after it opened. We got Juno last week. No Country opened late and has stayed only because it is a thriller and people around here hunt. So I'm willing to go anywhere to watch 12 hours of movies. I have a small bladder, love popcorn and would love to see a movie that isn't Alvin and The Chipmunks! (Seriously? Still! Showing! Here!)

Help me EW, you're my only hope.

Frances Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 07:53 PM EST

I convinced my friend to come with me (he was scared to see No Country!) on this great movie marathon. His reactions alone during the film will make for a great blog! We are both avid movie fans and spend hours critiquing the movies we see. It should be an fun and challenging experience for the both of us to sit through all these movies back to back and I would love to write about it for your great website (which I read everyday!)

johnbrittain Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 05:50 PM EST

Top 10 reasons to pick me:
10. I'm a teacher and I've given grades a la EW for years now.
9. If selected, I promise not to write a "blah-g"
8. In - me; 5 minutes ago - everyone else
7. Michael and Annie are my personal idols
6. Cause Subway's Jared is just too busy
5. I look great in a swan dress
4. I met Nicolas Cage once at my theater while he was researching Con Air. Not that it matters, but it still was cool. He watched the Great White Hype, by the way. That shows my eye for details. Afterwards, he signed my poster of "Guarding Tess" which I have never attempted to sell on eBAY.
3. I may be from the South, but I know what a minx and calamari are, and I promise to keep my underwear on at all times.
2. Do it for the kids!
1. You'll love me, honest to blog!

Amy Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 04:01 PM EST

Pick me! Blogging lead to success for Diablo Coty, and I'm a Minnesotan too. This could be my ticket. Granted, without the stripper back story I might not be as interesting. My greatest day of '07 was the marathon last year...so you see, I know what to expect. It was a cold day, and the weather was getting worse by the minute. 3 friends and I packed our purses with apples, pb & j sandwiches and crackers, ready for the day ahead. I was a little apprehensive about sitting through 5 movies. A little nervous that it would cause a blood clot in my leg leading to a pulmonary embolism. I started out strong. Loved Babel; didn't make me nauseous at all. Things only got better from there. The Queen was lovely; Departed had me on the edge of my seat. Unfortunately, I hit the wall during Letters. #1, subtitles. There is no number 2. That movie almost did me in. But I stayed strong. Little Miss Sunshine was cute, not really Oscar worthy IMO (I know blogging lingo too). Can't wait to do it again.

Phoebe Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 03:22 PM EST

I’m not afraid to admit it: when I heard about this contest, I gasped almost as loudly as I did when I first heard the Spice Girls’ “Headlines (Friendship Never Ends).” They’re both just too good to be true. Yes, 2007 was very good to me. EW readers enjoy analyzing the highbrow—2007’s lovely Oscar-nominated films like “Michael Clayton”—with references to the lowbrow—Tom Wilkinson’s character’s breakdown parallels elements of “Celeb Rehab with Dr. Drew,” no?
Also, I’m an aspiring screenwriter who works at an independent film company. Watching twelve straight hours of movies will help me accomplish many things simultaneously: 1) it will help me procrastinate and 2) prevent me from working on, and therefore one day finishing, my screenplay which 3) ultimately means I can’t quit my job as an assistant. Plus, there’s Josh Brolin (yum) & Javier Bardem (double yum despite the Dorothy Hamill haircut). Writing for PopWatch will be a great story to tell if (when?) I get nominated for an Oscar

Scott Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 03:06 PM EST

Athletes do not compete without practicing, their skills would not be sharp enough.

Runners do not participate in marathons without training, they would not have the requisite stamina.

Which is why, despite some worthy entrants, I am the most qualified for this unique event.

For the last 6 years, I have participated in the self-invented Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Triple Play ("commonly" known as the MLK Triple Play) - 3 movies, watched in succession, carefully synchronized for ultimate timing-perfection.

This year's Triple Play included Cloverfield, Into the Wild, and Kite Runner.

I have trained for this. I have sharpened my skills, and I have devoted myself to the craft of Movie Theater Marathoning. All that remains is the opportunity to translate this from the practice field to the main Pop Watch stage EW.com: to bring my knowledge, experience, and above all, my lack of anything to do on Saturday to all of you in Internet land. Let me be your movie marathoner.

shannon Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 02:42 PM EST

I'll totally do it. I just don't think there's an AMC theatre around here...

joopiter Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 02:23 PM EST

I'd totally do it! My roommate and I do a yearly Oscar Quest where we attempt to see all of the nominated films before our big Oscar party. Usually it takes driving all over the state (and sometimes out of state) to accomplish it, so seeing them all the best picture nominees in one place would fantastic. And as an added bonus I'll even include details about how many obnoxious cell-phone talking, seat-kicking, baby-bringing audience members I can get ejected from the theater. So there you go - drama, comedy, action and a really sore butt all in one blog post.

diana Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 02:08 PM EST

what's so cheerful about giving up a baby?

tad Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 01:46 PM EST

This would be an amazing opportunity for me. I already do movie marathons on a semi-regular basis (watched the original Star Wars trilogy all in one sitting and the LOTR films plus last year sat through Volver, Dreamgirls and Notes on a Scandal all in one day. I am a huge entertainment junkie and can name every Best Picture winner from the very beginning (mainly cause I've seen all of them plus all the AFI Top 100 Films). I read EW like it is the Bible and have a dream of someday writing for the magazine. It would be a dream come true for me to have this opportunity. I've seen 3 of the 5 nominees but would gladly sit through them again. in college, I was the go to guy for everything Oscar related and actually had several columns published in the school paper regarding the Oscars. I definitely think this would be a good fit for me. Please pick me, EW!! on top of all that, I majored in English so I know how to write and I am very funny and quick witted which is always a plus!!

Neillfilm Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 01:46 PM EST

Okay EW, don’t play with my heart. I was already excited about the Oscars this year, but now to offer me a chance to see all of the Best Picture Nominations in one sitting? Wow. That would be great. I have 2 excellent reasons to pick me as your blogger.

First, the Oscars are falling on my birthday. Not kidding, I’ve been waiting a while on this one, and if I could report on this experience the day before… bliss!

Second, I’m going to drag my wife along! She’s a big movie buff as well, so you will get two opinions for the price of one. Kind of a “he said/she said” on the films. Can’t go wrong with that.

Please get back to me! I’d love to do this for you.

Miss Dahlia Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 01:33 PM EST

As depressing as most of the movies seem, I had actually already planned on going. You know, to brag and stuff so people will think I’m cool. But you probably shouldn’t pick me because I figured it would be more fun to watch while drinking. Blogging + drinking = bad news. So anybody who’ll be at Kent Station… Keep an eye out-- I’ll be the one with the flask with and the Prozac chaser…
HEY Christopher Richards! I just did the same thing with VM this weekend! Stupid addictive show, making me stay up all night long and ingraining the Dandy Warhols in my head.

AA Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 01:21 PM EST

I vote for furry_tom!! We need some wit in this exercise!

M Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 01:15 PM EST

It seems an unusually strong and thought-provoking group of BP nominees this year, but you have to be something of an obsessive glutton to sit down before this cinematic buffet. People need time to PROCESS these movies. I couldn't imagine instantly following the wrenching finale of "Atonement" with the (alleged--I haven't seen it yet) quirky wit of "Juno." At least nothing follows "No Country," because first-time watchers should be haunted for weeks over that enigmatic ending.

Brian T. Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 12:54 PM EST

I would love to be chosen for this great experience. I love movies and the Oscars are the highlight of my movie loving year. My wife and daughter know not to bother me during the Oscar telecast. I have seen Atonement (which I absolutely loved) and Juno( which I love the quick witted writing). I would love to see them again and also the other nominated films

Pick Me!!!

Lyn, you're very inconsiderate Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 12:52 PM EST

Just because you didn't care for Atonement, there was not need for you to reveal certain spoilers. Your post was not relevant to the topic, and many of the people who are posting/reading are interested *because* they haven't seen all of these movies. At least warn people if you're going to include spoilers in your diatribe.

furry_tom's Three Point Plan for Blogging Excellence™ Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 12:49 PM EST

My pitch:
· A lot of people are hung up on antiquated notions such as "qualifications" or "experience," however, I think that my unique blend of incompetence and naiveté would be a refreshing break from the jaded professionalism that infects so many blogs.
· I'm a narcissist. Me writing about myself watching movies would be as natural as a bear riding a unicycle.*
· By blogging, people are automatically subjected to the hatred of a multitude of anonymous commentators, which could cause despondency. I believe that my years of training in Buddhist meditation would make me impervious to this form of vitriol, and if that fails, I can always ease away the pain by eating a jar of candy beans.

*It's a common misconception that circus bears have to be trained to ride the unicycle. In fact, bears are natural unicyclists, although it's infrequently seen in the wild because of the degree of difficulty it poses to their ability to catch salmon.

kati m. Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 12:42 PM EST

Wow. That Jessica Lee sounds like she knows her stuff. I'd pick her.

Lyn Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 12:29 PM EST

Atonement is the worst movie ever. I don't know how it was nominated for Best Picture. It was neither a love story nor a war movie - half of the movie didn't even happen, it was all made up for Briony's book in the end. The pace kept jumping around and it was like they were trying to be artsy without knowing how. I mean the adapation is up for an Oscar too? How is that possible? The book was pretty good, but the movie left out huge plot lines and ended up being very disjointed. My husband and I were ready to walk out, and we never walk out of movies. At the end we started laughing at what a waste of time this movie was and then started laughing at the people who were actually crying!! I had to get this off my chest since I'm tired of all of the praise this movie is getting!

Jessica Lee Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 12:18 PM EST

I would like to be considered to be the guest blogger. I already bought a ticket to the AMC event on 42nd street - plus I bought 4 more tickets for my friends. We've been discussing the event non-stop for the last 48 hours because we're all so excited to go. I also have been to 2 separate marathon showings of the LOTR trilogy (extended versions!) - first time was the eve of the release of "Return of the King" and the second was at a special event the Film Society of Lincoln Center put on. So I'm already well suited to survive a marathon showing. And despite the dryness of this posting, I think I can be witty and funny...although most of the films are rather serious, so I don't know how much humor there will be in the situation in general. Pick me, please!

new yorker Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 12:17 PM EST

I would TOTALLY love to do this and I think I'm your gal for a number of reasons. First, I have read Atonement, No Country for Old Me and Upton Sinclair's Oil on which There Will Be Blood was based. I read these books within a 10 day period, so I think I'm pretty trained for a marathon session in heavy material. I've seen Juno, but I would see it again in a heartbeat because I think that with good movies, no matter how many times you see it, you can always find something new. Third, I'm a movie and pop culture junkie. Like many who frequent this site as Bob Marley smoked pot, I've always wanted to be a writer for you. Be it either TV watch or Pop Watch. Fourth, not to sound like a beyotch (or a new yorker) or anything, but I just kick a**, and I know that and I'm cool with that. I have a sweet name, so you know you'll be getting a very sweet and kicka** and non boring post from me. Finally, I am a true movie fanatic. I know this, and know that if you pick me, you'll be very glad! Paix!

Nathan & Jennie Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 12:12 PM EST

We'd plan on doing a husband/wife male/female perspective/debate on each of the five films. Among the categories:
- who has the best bladder (free food which means getting drinks)
- who's better off watching - film analysis minor (him) or an average film viewer (her)
and
- surviving a depression-a-thon (who hangs themself with the free lanyard first)

Really, who wouldn't love us?

p.s. - We would do a video blog if the AMC wouldn't flip.

Becca Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 11:38 AM EST

Normally I would, but I refuse to sit through all 7 hours of There Will Be Blood again.

Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 11:37 AM EST

Normally I would, but I refuse to sit through all 7 hours of There Will Be Blood again.

denny Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 11:09 AM EST

I might not be the loudest person on these boards, or the wittiest, or the craziest. However, this would be the fulfillment of a huge dream for me. You see, I received my first copy of EW over a decade ago, and ever since reading it cover-to-cover over a dozen times, I have wanted to write for this magazine. I have spent the past few months studying for/taking the GREs and filling out applications for graduate school, so I am in dire, DIRE need of some good, thought-provoking entertainment. And, yeah, some others might have their walls covered in EW covers, but how many of them have a complete collection of Entertainment Weekly magazines from 1995 to the present day? Some of which, I might add, still get read? PLUS, I can drag my snarky little sister along with me. When she doesn't like something she lets it rip. So, in short: I'm smart, I'm bored, and I have longed to write for EW since my beady little eyes first saw that glossy cover in the mail. And, as a bonus, Snarky Sis!

Allison Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 10:33 AM EST

LOL @ Brian.

That kid's funny, ya'll should pick him!

Or pick me!! I love Juno!

Vicky Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 10:23 AM EST

Honestly. I'll probably go crazy sitting in that theater all day. There's a good chance I'll throw my free popcorn bucket at some annoying person's head. Plus, with my luck, I'll spill my Icee/soda all over me in the first movie. Sure, those are enough reason to not go, but PLEASE, PLEASE PICK ME!! The writer's strike has killed my obsession with awards show season. I need to find a way back and this is it. I've only seen Juno, (which I would love to see again) so I'm a clean slate. Plus, who wouldn't want to read an article from a crazy, soaked, popcorn bucket throwing 23-year-old??

Brian Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 10:08 AM EST

Five reasons why I should be chosen to participate in AMC's Day long Oscar-fest:

1. I'm a movie freak yet due to my schedule have yet to see any of the Oscar nominated movies. I know, for shame! This will give allow me to put the day in my calendar and not feel guilty about seeing five movies in a row when I should be out volunteering, or something.
2. I rite reel good.
3. I am occasionally funny and witty, thusly creating an enjoyable article for your readers and EW lovahs out there.
4. I'm not offensive physically in case you want to post a picture of me on your site.
5. I beleive picking me will be my good karma reward for letting that couple have my cab and holding the door open for that old lady yesterday.

So pick Brian! He's neato! Donna Martin graduates! Oops, got carried away there.

Ep Sato Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 10:03 AM EST

Oh man, I'm so psyched for Monday already! It sounds like there's a ton of great contenders and it fills me with glee to know one of our colleagues is going to be a guest blogger! It's going to be a new beginning for Popwatch, and hopefully the reaction to the blog will be so positive that we readers will get invited to join in on the fun again sometime soon.

Andrea Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 09:57 AM EST

I would like to throw my hat in the ring as well. I rarely comment but read religiously all day, every day. I have been reading Entertainment Weekly since it first began so many years ago and wait for it arrival every week.

I have yet to see the five movies in question (every time I planned on going, something came up) and was going to try and fit them in before then anyway...so why not all in one day? Will be a test of my endurance! Please choose me!

Melissa Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 09:50 AM EST

I AM SO PI$$ED! I will be traveling to conference that day! I had so much fun last year - even having to sit through BABEL- which was god awful! This year ALL the movies are great and I miss it!!

I live in a small town and we do not get the Oscar movies here. So my trip to KC, MO last year was GREAT!

Also, you get free pop and popcorn all day. You have to buy everything else. But it was great!!

Eric Friedmann Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 09:11 AM EST

I saw MICHAEL CLAYTON and NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN and loved them both. I'm not particularly interested in the other three. Frankly, I think AMERICAN GANGSTER should have been nominated.

Joe Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 09:11 AM EST

I feel like this competition really heated up and I wanted to defend myself again. I truly feel that I would be one of the best people to write this guest blog spot for EW. Writing for EW has absolutely always been something that I've wanted to do, and after truly learning how to critique in college this past year. Also, my huge wealth of random pop culture could only help. I definitely will be attending this event, and writing about it would be a huge honor and a nice piece of writing for me to show off to my Drama faculty here at Carnegie Mellon University. As I said, I'm a huge fan of the magazine, have had the covers on my walls since age 10 or 11, and check this website religiously all day. So please give me a chance to write this article. You won't be disappointed! Thanks EW!

Verity Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 09:08 AM EST

Why pick me?

I already have a fresh supply of essentials: 1 inflatable bum cushion, 3 pairs of contact lenses plus a healthy supply of rejuvenating eye drops, 2 protein bars, a Red Bull for that extra energy boost around the 9-hour slump, lots of fruit and carrots to stimulate brain function, and 1 pristine spiral notebook.

I am perfectly capable of remaining objective while reveling in the glory that is George Clooney, James McAvoy, Javier Bardem, Jason Bateman, Daniel Day-Lewis, and if I’m being honest, Kelly McDonald, Ellen Paige, and Allison Janney.

I have been training for this my whole life. Organizing movie marathons was my forte. I attended countless back-to-back features in theaters across the greater southern region of Virginia. Plus, I attended the AMC Oscar marathon last year and loved every single minute of the grueling and sometimes painful process! This is my Olympics, PopWatch!

fredric Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 08:06 AM EST

Not that I'm throwing my hat into any rings here, but the ideal person would be someone who has already seen the films who can spend precious time writing about the hot messes in the audience who are seeing everything for the first time.

Sam B. ( part two) Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 02:50 AM EST

I would be honored to be able to write this blog for Entertainment Weekly. Reading through other people's comments here, it has become clear to me that I am not the singularily crazy Entertainment Weekly subscriber than I once thought I was. No, I am not the only one who reads PopWatch daily, if not religiously. Nor am I the only person who has had a subscription to the magazine since practically their youth. And perhaps most shockingly, I am not the only person who has their entire wall covered in a glossy, dizzying ( and gratifyingly so) array of Entertainment Weekly Covers. It is for this reason- that Entertainment Weekly is a magazine that can so clearly inspire such devoted fandom- along with the fact that it respectably writes about Entertainment, in an erudite and mostly non-sensationalist andfashion, which makes me just the teensiest bit giddy about sitting through twelve hours of movies in order to share my thoughts in such a glorious venue.
Pick Me, Choose Me, Love Me.

Sam Bellikoff Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 02:40 AM EST

Dearest PopWatch,
I sit here and ask not Why PopWatch should choose me to be the guest-blogger on this momentous Oscar occasion, but rather why I, astute Columbia film and creative writing student, should choose PopWatch as the venue to air my ever-so-witty-while-still-being-spot-on observances of the half-day marathon that is to come. One) I have only seen each movie on this list once and unfortunately have not been able to take a much-desired second helping of each in these past three months (because we all know the likelihood of a film winning an Oscar between January and September is as high as the possibility of Britney Spear's umpteenth possible comeback...this year.)
2) The scores and musical soundtracks of many of the films alone (the click-clacks of Atonement, the I'm-going-to-murder-you-in-a-creepy-yet-grand-fashion strings of There Will Be Blood) send me into frenzied flights of fancy; A frenzied writer is a good one.
All false lack of humilty aside though, (to be contd)

Brandon Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 01:48 AM EST

Why me? Because I already bought my ticket the day they went on sale Friday! I missed out on this last year, but I was praying they'd do it again just so I could prove to myself (and anyone else who cares) how hardcore I am about movies. The day is marked in huge letters on my calendar, and I've already begun training. I'm already pushing myself by spending long periods of time sitting quietly with limited bathroom breaks (of course being in grad school helps with this). I'm ready to take on Clayton, Briony, Plainview, Chigurh, and that little punk Juno. Bring it, AMC!

Brandon Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 01:48 AM EST

Why me? Because I already bought my ticket the day they went on sale Friday! I missed out on this last year, but I was praying they'd do it again just so I could prove to myself (and anyone else who cares) how hardcore I am about movies. The day is marked in huge letters on my calendar, and I've already begun training. I'm already pushing myself by spending long periods of time sitting quietly with limited bathroom breaks (of course being in grad school helps with this). I'm ready to take on Clayton, Briony, Plainview, Chigurh, and that little punk Juno. Bring it, AMC!

Janey Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 12:48 AM EST

I would totally do this if only Michael Clayton wasn't on the list. Couldn't pay me to sit through that piece of poo again. The others I wouldn't mind at all, even though I wasn't crazy about Atonement either.

Ceballos Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 12:41 AM EST

Thanks for the shout out Ep. (are people even still saying "shout out" in 2008)

Anyway, I would like to take to take on this challenge because I don't think it would be much of a challenge at all. I think it would be about 2% challenge and 98% fun. This past summer I skipped work/called in sick to check out four movies in one day (partly so I could blog about it, but mostly to, you know, see four movies in one day) and if I could survive the quartet of "The Simpsons Movie", "Chuck and Larry", "Rush Hour 3" and "The Invasion", I think I have the stamina to watch the five Best Picture nominees. (I'd link to that blog, but I'm slightly embarrassed by my favorable review of "The Invasion")

Also, I wonder why they decided to end the marathon with "No Country". Did they want the audience to go home saying WTF to themselves? (And I actually really liked that movie...sorry Ep.)

Jonathan F. Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 12:27 AM EST

I think that's a cool idea. the placing of Juno is good i think, because when i saw NCFOM it got a lot of laughs.. i'm not saying it's a funny movie, but it has it's darkly humorous moments and of course is very entertaining.

Bob Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 12:14 AM EST

I am a twenty-four year old medical school student; I've definitely got the required endurance to muscle through a full day of film viewing. I've also got a fairly unique perspective because I have not seen any of the nominated films! I'm a movie trivia buff, a creative writer, dazzlingly witty (to myself, at least), and ready for a chance to give back to my favorite magazine. I also feel that I'm young and hip (though the fact that I referred to myself as 'hip' sort of negates my coolness) but not so precocious that I'll alienate readers past their school age years. But regardless of my limitless qualifications (which I've run out of, hence I must desperately change the topic), I'm fiercely opinionated, extremely critical, a little nutty when given too much popcorn, but recognize a good movie when I see one, even if I don't enjoy it, persay. And I dare say, at around the 11th hour of gloom and doom, my tolerance for pain will probably be a necessity. I'm out of characters...pick me?

Michael Wed, Jan 30, 2008 at 12:06 AM EST

Why would I be the perfect pick for the movie marathon? I'm young, eager, and unpretentious. I like the numbing sensation that comes when my butt falls asleep (which I'm sure will happen at least a half a dozen times). I love popcorn and I love free refills even more. (I'm a little upset that doesn't include soda but I'm sure I'll be too busy filling my mouth with food to care.) I've only seen Juno, so I'd be going in with a pretty open mind, while also fighting the urge to nap which I think would be a challenge in its own. Basically, I am ready to take on the mission. And I'm bad ass.

Christopher Richards Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 11:57 PM EST

I was signed up for this on Sunday, and I can't wait. I actually canceled plans just to go to this, though I am a notorious binge-entertainment viewer. I am the one who watched 17 episodes of Veronica Mars Season 1 straight, because I just HAD to know who murdered Lilly Kane (I guessed wrong, freakin Duncan!) Anywho, I'll post back if there's a followup!!!

Todd Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 11:51 PM EST

I was going to try and plead my case to be the guinea pig by talking about great all these movies are and how many fantastic movies came out this year ("Once" is by far the best of them), but really, I want to do this because I need a break from the crap. My friend Scott convinces me to do bad movie marathons with him, which has led us to watch such disasters as "I Know Who Killed Me," "Rush Hour 3" and "The Heartbreak Kid." And all I can say is ENOUGH! I need to see some good movies for a change. I've already got some friends interested in doing this with me before you, EW, came along, and it would be perfect if I could go do this for your site. I'm not scared of a little (ok, a lot) heavy drama. I'm not scared of movies about lawyers and rape and oil and serial killers and teen pregnancy (as long as you promise that one of those is actually a comedy). Bring it on, Oscar!

Mary Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 11:21 PM EST

I did this in Charlotte last year and it was a pretty great day. Those who showed up were die hard movie fans, which meant it was the first time in years that I sat through a movie without hearing a) a cell phone ring b) loud whispering and c) a child crying. Just good people, good movies, all the popcorn and soda I could take, and some fun trivia games in between the shows. If you like movies, do this day. It's well worth the price.

Anthony Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 10:51 PM EST

You know, I think I will do this simply because it sounds like a challenge. I thought watching 16 episodes of Veronica Mars in a row was difficult, but I think this might be a bigger test of endurance. On the plus side, I haven't seen any of these movies yet, so I think I would be able to fairly judge which is best. Pick me.

Steph Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 10:49 PM EST

I used to spend hours watching movies and made it a point to see every best picture nominee. I was so lame that instead of sneaking into the next picture, I would leave the theater and go pay for the next movie I wanted to see. And now I am a full time working mom (as a prosecutor) of 2 boys (2 1/2 and 6 months). I cannot remember the last time I had an opportunity to to watch a movie in a theater. It sounds like a great experience and if you need a writing sample, let me know.

Ep Sato Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 10:49 PM EST

Susman, it's my deepest fantasy to write a "guest blogger" posting for Popwatch (I keep hoping some political event in DC will be so pop culture noteworthy and I'll be the only one able to report on it), but I can't possibly sit through "No Country For Old Men" a second time. Not even for a chance to have "My thoughts on sitting in a theater for 12 hours by EP Sato" in Popwatch. Someone's going to have an awesome post all their friends will see on Monday and it won't be me!Sniff sniff

Ceballos, you are awesome at movie reviews and a great writer. Any chance you'll take a stab at it? How about Houstonian Jen, Stephanie T, Furry-Tom, that one dude I always argue with (Tom Brazelton, who's actually pretty cool) or one of the Phils? Heather M, Joe or Matt Cruz, you are our only hope. Please be like Obi Wan and help us out!

To Whoever gets chosen: I'm going to give you a ton of props when your posting is published, even though I'll be hella envious.

Heather M. Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 10:25 PM EST

There comes a time in the life of every PopWatcher when endurance must be tested. When time must be sacrificed. When copious amounts of popcorn must be consumed.

My fellow PopWatchers, I believe my time has come. I would like to be your representative on the Oscar front lines. In training for this day, not only have I formulated anti butt-numbing strategies and eye fatigue avoidance exercises, I have also (I believe) discovered the Pop Secret (4 minutes on high and a little seasoning salt).

My recap of the day shall be humorous (I promise an anecdote featuring at least one of the following: cell phone hijinks, snack spillage, and/or someone who thinks Juno is actually about the mythological character). My recap of the day shall be poignant (I will cry at least once, if only because I’ve run out of belt notches before I’ve run out of popcorn). And my recap of the day shall be snarky in all the right places because, well, I’m an EW subscriber. We do snark in spades.

Pick me.

Joe in Philly Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 10:14 PM EST

I'm slightly confused. Is EW offering to reimburse the $30 charged by AMC, or merely offering to let us talk about it afterwards? It doesn't matter to me. I haven't worked in over two years (long story but it doesn't involve being in jail) but I'm willing to fork over the money myself. So don't fall for some sob story about how they can't afford to go to movies.

On second thought, I'll even sit through Atonement again.

The AMC site says "free large popcorn" and under that "unlimited refills all day" -- does that refer to the popcorn or to beverages? Because I can figure out a way to get some food, but I'm not willing to buy soda at their prices all day and night!

Jasmine Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 10:11 PM EST

Last year they had the same program and I did it with a friend. It's really a lot of fun. At my theater they had trivia and prizes between the movies, as well as unlimited popcorn and soda. It's really not a bad way to spend your Saturday. Sure the lineup is a little depressing, but so was last year's, I mean The Departed, Letters from Iwo Jima and Babel aren't exactly light hearted. But it's definitely worth it.

Marisa Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 09:50 PM EST

I didn't even know this existed and now am extremely excited! My new year's resolution was to see all the movies nominated for best picture this year and was fairly surprised when I had already seen two of them(Juno and Atonement). I know I have the stamina because I survived an almost two day continuous marathon of Battlestar Galactica seasons 1.5-3 without even batting an eyelash and was forced to watch the 5 hour BBC Pride and Prejudice twice in a row. I love all genres of films, and my friends never want to see the 'serious' or 'foreign' movies with me so I won't be biased. If I'm not chosen I'll still go, I just won't get to write about it.

Houstonian Jen in DC Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 09:31 PM EST

Wow! This year I am just a Michael Clayton away from seeing all of the nominees. That never happens. I better get on the ball, stat.

This is going to be a hard year for the AMC marathon. I needed a minute to process everything I had seen in "There Will Be Blood" and "No Country...". Of course, for the bargain price of $30, there's no better way to see 5 movies. (Remember when you could go to the movies for $6---those were the days!)

Matthew Cruz Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 09:26 PM EST

Why should I be plucked as the brave marathoner? Because I've been ready to go since conception. My ticket is purchased, the AMC is ten minutes from my house, I've seen all the films already and I'm currently a freshman USC film student (who happens to be an Oscar Hound) whose had plenty of time to discuss and debate them - not to mention write a paper on No Country.

Besides, EW could try out some young blood and see how it flows. Diablo Cody, anyone?

nunya Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 08:28 PM EST

since i have already seen all of these and properly digested them, i'd love to do this and just might. TWBB is my pick for the oscar, although i was on the edge of my seat the WHOLE TIME for NCFOM. great films this year, though i'd replace juno w/ american gangster.

Joe Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 08:11 PM EST

I would love to do this, EW. Besides being an avid reader of your magazine (yes, I have the covers on my bedroom walls), I would really enjoy the opportunity to revisit some of these movies. I think I can give honest criticism on each of the movies as well, especially seeing (most) of them for a second time. So I certainly wouldn't mind being the guinea pig!

Phil Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 07:49 PM EST

I've already seen JUNO & MICHAEL CLAYTON and my friend and I are going to see NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN tomorrow night. Ironically I passed on ATONEMENT in favor of atending the press screening for JUNO that same night, and I actually liked JUNO. I may get around to see ATONEMENT yet, but I don't see myself lining up for THERE WILL BE BLOOD, let alone on the same day as as 4 other films, since THERE WILL BE BLOOD is both dark & just shy of 3 hours long itself!

sarah Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 07:35 PM EST

"This seems kind of like a punishing day — not because it's 12 solid hours of movie-watching, but because four of the five pics are so grave and serious."

I think you meant because four of the five pics are so BORING.

krikky Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 07:29 PM EST

I would do it, but I've already seen all of them but Michael Clayton. And I've seen There Will Be Blood 7 times. Yes, people, SEVEN TIMES! I'm kind of psycho about that one. And I agree that TWBB and No Country should be seen on there own. BUT I will be very interested to see what the guinea pig has to say!

Rose Tyler Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 07:28 PM EST

May I suggest that AMC invests in therapists for those who put themselves through that. Not only is that serious time spent sitting in the dark but I needed couch time just after No Country, let alone all the others.

Maggie Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 07:25 PM EST

I'm a broke Americanwould-be writer living in the most expensive city in the world- it'd be great to get 12 hours of free entertainment and a story our of it.

...Pretty Please?

Diana Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 07:04 PM EST

I've learned from past film fest experiences that I can only handle about 3 theater movies a day before I start craving sun and actual food. And going a little cooky.

Rob Grizzly Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 06:40 PM EST

I've seen all 5- for the sole purpose of not doing this exact very thing- (I tried the marathon last year and it was brutal!)

As an AMC employee, I obviously urge folks to do this. But as someone who's seen all 5 noms, I agree with an earlier post; There Will Be Blood and No Country should be watched on their own.
Warning, all movies except for Juno are over 2 hours. Bring rations...

Jaime Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 06:16 PM EST

I would so love to do this. . .i have yet to see any of them cus none of them have caught my attention, but like always the oscars fall on or around my b-day (this year on). So i will be busy super busy getting wasted but if you insist i will make it a memerable 22nd b-day and sit down in a theatre for 12hrs straight to watch them on the day b4 my B-Day!!! I have 3 theatres around me doing this!!!

LET ME KNOW. . .im down for it!

Stephanie Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 06:08 PM EST

If you're in DC, you can watch all five of the Foreign Language film nominees at the National Geographic headquarters! Only $7 a show or $25 for all five, and they're showing them between Feb 14-17.

www.nglive.org for ticket info

johnbrittain Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 06:08 PM EST

I would volunteer to do it because of these 5 movies, I have only seen one (Juno). I am normally the "awards movie" guru of my circle of friends, but this years' crop, as excellent as they are rumored to be, has failed to excited me. I guess that is why I am so blasee about the Oscars this year. I was more excited about hearing about what Sean Young did at the DGA awards. I need to find a reason to get excited about these films, and this assignment could just be the spark I'm looking for. Otherwise, I don't even know if these are renters.
I worked for five years as a movie theater projectionist and manager before going into teaching. I literally watched every movie that came out (I used to have a 20 minute rule that all movies deserved at least that much of my time in order to discover those hidden gems that I might overlook. These days, however, I'm not so sure.)Furthermore, on a teacher's salary, I can't afford to see all of them and a $30 deal is just what the budget needs.Help EW!

:o( Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 06:05 PM EST

I would love to do it but unfortunatly for me there is no theater near me.

Caitlin Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 06:05 PM EST

Count me in. I'm all about this kind of masochism...i mean, fun (I watched all 5 Rockys in 2 days so I could go see Rocky 6 when it was in theaters...my motivation: milo ventimiglia.) I've wanted to see all of these movies, but I've only been able to see Juno. Color me excited.

Jeff W. Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 05:56 PM EST

I have already seen them all and I would love to do this, but I live in Canada and they don't do that here. Bummer. I would love to see them all together. It would be quite the expereince.

Joe in Philly Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 05:49 PM EST

Ha! I looked at last year's message and said the same thing about Little Miss Sunshine last year that I did about Atonement this year. It must be a sign.

Joe in Philly Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 05:47 PM EST

Could I skip Atonement? I've already seen it and don't know if I could sit through it again. I suppose I could sit there text messaging during it but that Kung Fu Panda (from their "Silence is Golden" announcement) would get mad at all the click-click-click-click-click and beat me up. Or I could take a nap but I might sleep through the next movie. But hey, I'm willing to do it.

Alex Clarke Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 05:43 PM EST

I'd totally do it! I saw Micheal Clayton and Juno already, but I wouldn't mind seeing them again. This way, I can stop agonizing myself over the three best picture noms that I STILL haven't seen.

jen Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 05:42 PM EST

It has always been a life goal of mine to watch all the Best Pictures before the actual Oscars. Needless to say, it has yet to actually happen. And I've previously rocked the AMC marathon at the theater. That's right, I went to Trilogy Tuesday for Lord of the Rings. And for my friend's birthday, we watched all the Star Wars (that's right, all 6) whilst playing Star Wars trivial pursuit (probably shouldn't admit that to too many people). Anyways, all that to say that I'll be your huckleberry. I'll take one for the team and watch 'em all.

Sarah C Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 05:42 PM EST

I've only seen Juno and read Atonement, so I'm up for the challenge...but the closest AMC is four hours away.

Heather Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 05:39 PM EST

I saw all five and I can't imagine seeing them all at once! I saw two of them (Atonement and There Will Be Blood) in one weekend and that was a lot. I appreciate that the release dates were spread out so I could take them all in gradually.

Julie Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 05:38 PM EST

I'd love to do it. I hate to admit it, but I haven't seen any of the films, so it should be interesting to be able to see them all in one day.

Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 05:36 PM EST

Sorry, I'm a big theater-hopper, but I think both "There Will Be Blood" and "No Country..." are movies that have to be seen on their own and given digestion time. So, for this year's selections particularly I think this is a bad idea. Best of luck to the guinea pig!

blaire Tue, Jan 29, 2008 at 05:32 PM EST

Because it sounds both fun and completely insane and it makes an excellent story to tell people.