2009 BAFTA Film Awards Airing Sunday Feb 8, Taraji and Viola Overlooked

By Monica Peters

While Americans are gearing up for the Grammy's on Sunday, don't forget about the 2009 British Academy Film Awards airing on BBC America Sunday 2/8. Both "Slumdog Millionaire" and "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" lead the pack with both films receiving a whopping 11 nominations each. Sean Penn and Mickey Rourke were both nominated for Lead Actor awards for their roles in "Milk" and "The Wrestler." Of course, Meryl Streep was nominated for Lead Actress for her role in "Doubt." The BAFTA's are usually a good predictor as to who will win Oscars.

Two things stick out like a sore thumb and get to me: "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" received 11 nominations but overlooked actress Taraji P. Henson in the Supporting Actress category. "Doubt" received 3 nominations but they overlooked actress Viola Davis for supporting actress. Both Taraji and Viola were both nominated for Oscars here in the US. Come on my folks across the pond, you all are "sleeping on" Taraji and Viola ("sleeping on" meaning not recognizing or appreciating the obvious) I hope color wasn't an issue in locking these phenomenal actresses out of their just due. I'll forgive the British Academy this time, but don't let it happen again! GritsnCheese is watching (smile).

The British Academy Film Awards airing on BBC America, Sunday February 8, 8PM EST. Check your cable television listings for the BBC America channel in your area. For a full list of BAFTA nominees click here.

*Also don't forget to check out our interview with Oscar nominee Taraji P. Henson on GritsnCheese.com