Glittering Award Shows

We watched a lot of the Oscar Awards Show Sunday evening. Not all of it. But more than two thirds. One reason we watch is to see artists mingling with each other. Another reason is to see the glitter and formal wear. Nice. Presentable. Not all, but most.


Some of the actors hold a special place in our hearts and we want to see them and hear what they have to say. Also, presenting can be a bore and it is fun to watch how some find unique ways to spice it up, make it more fun. We were not disappointed in that department this year!


A part of me wonders why the public is so interested in award shows. Is it celebrity worship? Is it a thirst for glamor and glitter?


Inevitably during the show, I wonder why it is so important that a small, select slice of society select from among themselves who wins and who loses? This is pretty inbred, don’t you think?  Self-selected folk choosing who is best this year?


There is important work being done everyday by millions of ordinary people. They labor to do the work that many do not want to do, but it is important they do it. Working with the very sick. Feeding malnourished children among us. Fighting poverty, crime and social injustice. Reaching out and touching others so they know they are valued, cherished.


These good people do not get recognition or awards for their work. No, our society highlights the wealthy, the influential, and the glamor people. The real work of the nation is performed by you and I. All we get is a paycheck (if not a volunteer position!), and self-satisfaction.


I do recognize the value of the artistry of actors. They portray characters that struggle with life’s slings and arrows like our own. They help us see that others recognize the problems. We know someone is emoting what we emote in our daily lives. It helps to know that these things are not forgotten or discarded.


Actors lift the ordinary so we can see it, feel it, taste it. It helps our understanding of it. And others note similar things, even though they might not be interested in that specific issue or group of people affected by it. It’s a good thing for society to inspect its lives and problems. It is what makes us human.


So, I have mixed emotions about award shows. Most don’t attract my attention; the Oscars do. Maybe it is a thing from childhood as we glimpsed on TV the larger world outside our town and region. Just knowing others were tuned in to our struggles gave comfort. Recognition. We existed if but for a short while.


The glitter isn’t bad either!


February 13, 2020