When I was in high school and college, I saw every major Oscar nominee every year — so I always felt capable of carrying on an Oscar–related conversation with anyone.
And I always had my personal preferences for the major awards.
For several reasons, I seldom go to the movie theater anymore. One reason is that I just don't have the same level of interest I once did.
I suppose the same could be said of my interest in college basketball. The basketball team at the University of Arkansas was pretty good when I was a student there, but the quality has dropped off in recent years — and, with it, my interest.
I don't watch much college basketball during the regular season anymore, but I still watch the NCAA Tournament because that brings together the best teams from across the country.
The lineup changes from one year to the next, but there are a few constants, and one of them is that you can always count on Duke to be there.
Meryl Streep is kind of the Duke of the movies.
OK, I know that they called John Wayne Duke. I guess Streep would have to be called "Duchess." No matter which movie she is in, you can always count on her to deliver a memorable performance.
There has to be something that can be used to set Streep apart from all the rest — besides her record 17 Oscar nominations and the fact that she lost most of them to the finest actresses of her time.
But last night, she didn't lose. She won for her portrayal of Margaret Thatcher in "The Iron Lady."
Makes me wish I'd seen it. Makes me hope it will find its way to cable soon.
Congratulations, Ms. Streep. It's recognition that is richly deserved, I am sure.
