Steve Martin "killed" as host of the 73rd Annual Academy Awards. Martin's relaxed non-frenetic pace was a welcome change. I did have the feeling at some intervals he may have been too hip for the room, save for Willem Dafoe & Tom Hanks who seemed to be the only ones who got all his material.

Executive Producer Gil Cates and Production Designer Roy Christopher deserve big pats on the back. Very inspired incorporation of the shuttle astronauts to the year 2001 theme. All sets worked: subltle muted colors, and high-tech representative art. Even the song and dance production numbers dreaded in previous years were entertaining this time out. The "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon" number was a standout. Music Director Bill Conti and the orchestra were unflappable and in fine form.

Particularly touching were the tributes to and acceptance speeches from producer Dino De Laurentiis, screenwriter Ernest Lehman, and cinematographer Jack Cardiff.

An annual world-wide event. Saturate yourself in the history, glamour, trivia, and more that are the Academy Awards.