If it ain’t ‘Brokeback’ don’t pick it, or do

In 2005 academy members returned to their old policy of ignoring major Hollywood blockbusters as best picture nominees. The big studio films about Harry Potter, Batman, King Kong, Narnia and Star Wars all made big money but did not get a nod for the big prize. But the voters may have gone too far in their quest to reward the independent flicks that made the grade.

The dynamic and complex thrillers “Munich,” “Crash” and “Good Night, and Good Luck” clearly belong in the top category.

“Brokeback Mountain” treats the subject of gay men in Wyoming in the 1960s with sensitivity and understanding, but it’s way too long. The minimal events occur so slowly and in so much silence that you might fall asleep watching the endless panoramas of lovely Rocky Mountain scenery.

Phillip Seymour Hoffman deserves a best actor nomination for his uncanny portrayal of Truman Capote, but the movie does not match the stark greatness of the original 1967 film of Capote’s “In Cold Blood.” That effort garnered four Oscar nominations and won the Golden Globe for best picture. It also won Richard Brooks the Directors Guild of America award for best director. Rent the old black-and- white classic if you haven’t seen it.

Several films would appear ahead of these two on my list of the year’s best films, including “Cinderella Man,” “The Constant Gardener,” “Syriana” and “The History of Violence.” “Shopgirl,” “Nine Lives” and “In Her Shoes” would make the offbeat list. The final “Star Wars” episode and “King Kong” would deserve honorable mention in a big-budget category.

And if you haven’t seen the year’s outstanding documentaries ? “March of the Penguins” and “Murderball” ? you might want to rent them too.

As far as my vote for best picture this year ? I can only wish you “Good Night, and Good Luck.”