I haven't watched the Oscars in years. I watched it this year because Jon Stewart was hosting. I was really surprised at how much they had changed, in presentation, set decor, etc. Stewart's humour seemed to breath new life into them and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I also liked that they honoured the orchestra and the conductor, Conti, AND that each recipient had a timer in front of them, so there were no long-winded thank you speeches.

I think it is great that so many independent and socially aware movies were in the running this year. IMO, this was not Hollywood as usual.