louise on the left (coast)

Today Melissa Leo was nominated for an Academy Award for her supporting actress role in "The Fighter." Actress, Melissa Leo I'm really happy for her, and clearly believe she's been overdue for this kind of recognition as evidenced in my numerous blog posts below: Actress, Melissa Leo Louise on the left:  Melissa Leo  Wins Deserved Golden Globe for The  ... Jan 17, 2011 If Academy Awards were actually given to actors who deserved them, then  Melissa Leo  would already have a collection of little gold men starting with one for her work in 21 Grams (2003) , and another for her role Frozen River (2009). Why  Melissa Leo  should win Best Actress this year. Feb 03, 2009 People need to know what some of us already do, that  Melissa Leo  is both the Bruce Springsteen and Lucinda Williams of American actresses. Simply put, she's simply one of best actresses we have working today. A more personal take on why I'd like to see  Melissa...

I originally wrote this in the comments section regarding a former post regarding having seen Frozen River . However, I thought this comment was interesting enough, and certainly long enough, to merit it's own post and not just languish, buried in some random comments section somewhere. So, here it is, again with a little re-working in it's own private post. From Me to Prince Gomolvilas re: Melissa Leo in Frozen River: ...Yeah, it's (Frozen River) is a film which I think is incredibly respectful to all the characters in the film. Let's face it, (unfortunately) I think Winslet may win this year, because she's so well known, but I'm obviously loyal to those who've touched my life personally, and this time, I actually think Leo deserves to win. And, yes, I'm a fan of all the women nominated this year. How do you call any one actors work "the best?" You can't. But, you can choose who to honor that year. Leo was as good as any of the others...

Because she deserves to.   That's why. I mean, have you even seen Frozen River , yet?  (Well, do.) She's amazing in this film.  Her performance is so brave,  honest and most of all, so moving. Okay. It's true, I'm biased. Because I knew her way, way back in grade school, and remember what a dazzling talent she was even back then. I watched her rehearse from the wings thinking "One day everyone will know how powerful and talented Melissa Leo is. And one day she will be honored for those gifts." Well, guess what? This is that day.   ( Check out this recent story about her nomination from CNN.) This is the day when everyone needs to get off their asses and go see Frozen River . People need to know what some of us already do, that Melissa Leo is both the Bruce Springsteen and Lucinda Williams of American actresses. Simply put, she's simply one of best actresses we have working today. And Frozen River is her movie. You gotta see it. Period. And, ...