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81st Oscars – The Academy Awards

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The Academy Awards — 81st Oscars

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Critics Consensus

Hugh Jackman brings his trademark showman flair to an 81st Oscars that goes to great lengths to liven up the formula, but much of the telecast's innovations only serve to highlight how easily the ceremony can teeter into cumbersome spectacle.

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Critics Reviews

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David Thomson Guardian 11/15/2019
Hugh Jackman carried off the very tricky role of host with old-fashioned style and cool aplomb -- I suspect he has the job for the next few years, especially if he can bring the same air of amateur musical show to further proceedings. Go to Full Review Jocelyn Noveck Associated Press 11/15/2019
This year's Oscar telecast was striking for its many feel-good themes and moments -- and perhaps exactly what we needed from a recession-era awards show. Go to Full Review Lisa Kennedy Denver Post 11/15/2019
Hosted by Hugh Jackman, the 81st Academy Awards achieved a smartly calibrated mix of past and present. It was a starry, starry night that took seriously the work of movie-making. Go to Full Review Nikki Finke L.A. Weekly 11/15/2019
I felt humiliated for Hugh Jackman, who had to perform one crapfest song-and-dance number after another. Go to Full Review David Zurawik Baltimore Sun 11/15/2019
The opening number, a spoof of the films nominated as best picture, was fun. But it was almost all downhill from there. Go to Full Review Michael Sragow Baltimore Sun 11/15/2019
It was like a concept musical with a flaccid concept, saved only by a few game performers and emotion-packed awards badly in need of a Parisian riot or an exploding chandelier. Go to Full Review Read all reviews

Audience Reviews

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j d @RT92082297 03/31/2022 Jackman saved it, what a consummate professional and performer See more Read all reviews
The Academy Awards — 81st Oscars

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Cast & Crew

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Hugh Jackman

Host

Episodes

Episode 1 Aired Feb 22, 2009 81st Oscars Details

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The Academy Awards — 81st Oscars

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Season Info

Network
ABC
Genre
Special Interest
Release Date
Feb 22, 2009