SueTube – Let’s talk TV with critic Susan Young

When you’re a TV critic, the only way to watch the Oscars is in front of the tube.

That’s why the lovely and talented Oakland Tribune freelancer Lana K. Wilson-Combs needed to be at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood.

But before we get to her quotes, I’d like to set the stage. The Kodak Theater is a a freakin’ MALL in Hollywood next to Grauman’s Chinese Theater and the Renaissance Hotel – which is actually just a dressed-up former Holiday Inn.

It’s tourist central, so I guess it makes sense. Anyway, heeerre’s Lana:

Forest Whitaker–After winning the “Best Actor” award for “The Last King of Scotland.”
“I had no idea that I’d be standing here tonight. So many people thought that this would be a lock and I never thought that. I was among some great actors. I’m so honored and so humbled. It’s a big achievement and I thank God for it.”

Leonardo DiCaprio–Before the Oscars.
“I’m in a very tough category with some extremely talented actors. So I’m not sure if this will be my night. I have a good feeling that the night will belong to Scorsese.”
(After The Oscars)
“See I told you so.”

Jack Nicholson–When asked if he and Britney Spears go to the same hairstylist. Laughs.
“It’s actually for a movie I’m doing with Morgan Freeman called “The Bucket List.“ It’s about a guy who is terminally ill with cancer.”

Djimon Hounsou–When asked about his chances to win “Best Supporting Actor.”
“I stopped predicting things I can’t control. I do have my fingers crossed and we’ll see what happens. Either way, I’m very proud of the movie (“Blood Diamond”) and the opportunity to work with Leonardo DiCaprio.”

Jennifer Lopez–Clutching tightly to her husband Marc Anthony and stopping for every photo op on the red carpet. When asked about her latest music plans.
“I have a new album coming out in June. It’s going to be hot.”
“She’s not lying either, chimed in Anthony. I’ve heard a few tracks and it’s sizzling.”

Daniel “007” Craig— Looking absolutely smashing in an Armani tuxedo. How he feels about resurrecting the iconic James Bond character and the success of “Casino Royale?”

“I did my best with the role and I’m happy that people latched on to the new Bond. (His upcoming “Bond 22”) “It continues from “Casino Royale.” It’s based on the Ian Fleming short story “Risico.” (The story also appeared in his book “For Your Eyes Only.”)

Louis Gossett Jr.–Academy Award winning actor who is currently starring in “Daddy’s Little Girls”).
“I’m just here taking in all the sights and sounds. I’m not presenting or anything. I would love to see Forest Whitaker win tonight.”

Jennifer Hudson— Before her win. “This is just too much. I don’t know how long this dream is going to last. It’s been non-stop excitement for me leading up to this big moment. I’m really trying to wrap myself around all of what’s going on.”

After her win for “Best Supporting Actress.”
“It’s a great feeling. I can’t describe it. I want this dream to last forever.”

On her co-star Eddie Murphy losing for “Best Supporting Actor.”
“I’m shocked. Stunned. He did such an amazing job in the film. I really wish he would have won.”

James Taylor–performed “Our Town” (“Cars”)–His upcoming projects.
“I’m probably not going to do another Christmas CD anytime soon but I am going into the studio and work on another pop album that I hope to complete by the end of summer.” I just finished my One Man Band Tour stop show at the Orpheum Theatre in San Francisco. the turnout and the crowd was great. I love playing the Bay Area.”

Keith Robinson–Star of “Dreamgirls.”
“I can’t believe I’m here. Pinch me. Go ahead and pinch me. Am I supposed to be on the Red Carpet? This is unreal.”

Siedah Garrett–Co-wrote the song, “Love You I Do” from “Dreamgirls.”
“You know how people say they’re just happy to be nominated? We’ll I’m not, I would love to win. I’m thrilled to be nominated but a win would be icing on the cake.” (Garrett lost to Melissa Etheridge who won for the song “I need to Wake Up” from the documentary “An Inconvenient Truth.”