A few other random thoughts or responses:
Kidman looked great in red but I found the dress to be unfortunante. It really distracted from her beauty. (That and Daniel Craig
)
The Oscars always have a political element. Contemporary films are speaking to what concerns many people and political issues happen to be much-discusssed at the moment. Besides, with 1 billion people watching the show, it's a great tool.
And, God help me if I hear the "they should just act" attitude.