Didn't You Know? Oscar Doesn't Like Sci-Fi Blockbusters

Before everyone gets in a huff about the fact that a comparatively unseen, small film like "The Hurt Locker" could beat a seemingly unstoppable juggernaut like "Avatar", let me remind everyone of a salient fact that is usually lost on no one, but, somehow, this year, got lost in the shuffle: Oscar, generally and traditionally, does not like blockbusters. Especially sci-fi blockbusters. Remember "Star Wars"? "Spider-Man"? "Harry Potter"? I could go on and on, but the fact is this: If a film is a commercial success, it's likely to be an Oscar failure. "Titanic" and "Lord of the Rings" are notable exceptions. Oh, the Academy may recognize technical achievements like cinematography and special effects, but Best Picture? For a sci-fi, fantasy, action/adventure, or animated movie? There's a better chance of a black man being elected President. Oh, wait--that already happened. Well, you get my point. The bottom line, for all you science fiction/fantasy/action/animation fans--and believe me, I'm right there with you--is that you should consider yourselves lucky that "Avatar"--and "District 9"! (not to mention, "Up")--were even nominated. That's only ever happened twice before ("Star Wars" and "E.T.").