2. Runtime
The ceremony always, always, always runs long. Its more of an Oscar night tradition than the audience wishing Billy Crystal was back as host. Every year, the telecast is set to run for 3 hours, and every year, it doesn't even come close. Isnt it about time to give up the ghost? Just admit that in order to present everything they want to in the Oscars telecast, an extra half hour is necessary and give it to them. Given the extra time to work with, it might help to provide a balance between quality and quantity of material at the ceremony without the inevitable slew of jokes and jabs (on and off the show) about just how long it is taking to finish.
1. In Memoriam
Now, before everyone jumps down my throat for insensitivity on this one, hear me out. The Oscars are a chance to celebrate films and everyone involved in them in a positive way. To that end, why make the In Memoriam portion of the program such a major downer (thats a technical term, folks) every single year? What I mean is this: the segment should be a lively, colorful celebration of the lives and works of those weve lost each year, rather than the overproduced, often cornily-scripted, black and white photos that we get. One of the greatest powers of film is its ability to preserve the legacies of its greatest participants long after theyve passed on. Lets take the opportunity to show just how well it can do that.
What do you think? Agree with my choices? Disagree? Find something I completely missed? Sound off in the comments section below.