With the Oscars almost upon us I ventured forth and watched a remarkable film. A little long perhaps, but brilliant enough to hold me in thrall for all of its 128 minutes.

Milk is the story of Harvey Milk. A man who is assassinated after becoming elected to the position of one of San Francisco’s Supervisors. This made him possibly the first openly gay elected officials in the United States. It also painted a big target on his back as he was living in less than enlightened times.

Do yourself a favour and go and see this film.

Now I’m left with a conundrum. Having seen the equally brilliant “The Wrestler”, I just wonder who’ll get the nod for lead actor.

Rourke or Penn? Penn or Rourke?

At the time of writing, Betfair has the odds in MickeyRourke’s favour. Rourke has odds of 1.58 compared to Penn with 3.5. If I was a betting man I’d pop a few bob on Penn because his character is so believable, a complete transformation and at 3.5 in a two horse race, that’s good value.

But I think the odds don’t lie. Rourke’s open and emotional display should tug at the heart strings and secure his first Oscar. Don’t forget, we all love the underdog.

Now, if you really get into the Oscars you should download the Internet Movie Database’s Oscars 2009 Ballot. Make your choices, print it out and pop some corn. Nice.

Let’s just hope Heath Ledger takes the win for supporting actor. Betfair has him as the unbackable favourite. His odds are 1.06 compared to the next contender at 26, Philip Seymour Hoffman.

Enjoy peoples.