Jacki Weaver

From disaster in Earth orbit to death in the Himalayas, to gunshots in Dallas, this week's top new movies serve up some pretty tough meat. Luckily there's at least one new comedy to lighten things up.

Remember when the movie musical was dead? Well, Sunday night's Academy Awards telecast will be a resounding reminder that, in the immortal words of Dr. Frankenstein, "It's ALIVE!!"

 

Of all the awards season events, the annual Academy Awards Nominees Luncheon stands out because it is a comparatively relaxed, familial affair; plus, it's not televised. In fact, it has become a welcome respite for the anointed ones, a place where they can bond as a class while out of sight of the…