It may only be in BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE, but still it’s a surprise. WALTZ WITH BASHIR was the heavy fave, having already been released here in this country, and to very good reviews. The only other released film THE CLASS was also given a good shot, since it won the Palme D’Or at Cannes. Both are very good films.

I don’t know anyone who’s seen DEPARTURES, so here’s hoping we have a great Japanese film to look forward to. (The Academy’s record with foreign films has been spotty.)