The Oscar race: The mega blockbusters.

Of the top ten blockbusters of last year, not a single one managed to snag one of the big Oscar nominations. In fact, “Walk the Line,” by far the most successful of the “top tier” flicks, managed to actually crack the hundred million marks.

But that doesn’t mean that the blockbusters aren’t going to be represented this year. No. If you go down the list a bit you’ll find that many of the top ten moneymakers (worldwide) got at least some recognition:

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire $888,733,970

This got a “best art direction” nom. As it’s a series, I guess the academy voters thought that previous efforts may have already had too much kudos but the nearly billion dollar worldwide gross needed some acknowledgement.

Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith $848,797,674

This got one for “best makeup.” That’s it. After all, Lucas and his series wore off their welcome long ago. This did not have the best makeup.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe $663,891,914

Now here we’ve got a possibility of winning something here although it’s doubtful. “Sound mixing” is a possibility, but “makeup” isn’t, As to “visual effects” the animated beavers were brilliant, but the battle scenes were merely really good.

War of the Worlds $591,413,301

Apparently Speilberg’s sound crew did a brilliant job here. Both “mixing” and “editing” got nominated. The special effects also got nominated, but they weren’t as good as WETA’s “King Kong.”

King Kong $543,007,743

Andy Serkis’ performance as the giant ape needs to be acknowledged, and WETA did better work for this than for CoN:LWW. If it doesn’t win for “visual effects, there’s no justice in the world. It may also get the “sound” awards too.

Madagascar $527,890,631

This made the semi-finals. Unfortunately they don’t give out a plaque for that .

Mr. & Mrs. Smith $477,671,954

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie already got nominated for other things. (Jolie actually won). This is too funny and too violent for an Oscar.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory $473,425,317

This thing got royally snubbed. While it may win the “best costume” award, Johnny Depp and Deep Roy got stiffed for acting. Two of the best performances of the year! This is partly why Tim Burton’s going to win for “Corpse Bride.”

Batman Begins $371,853,783

This has a real shot at winning the “cinematography” award.

Wedding Crashers $283,143,270

This film only made money. Thus it’s justly ignored.