Before we get started on the Mega Oscar Diary, let's go to a few random ramblings from the cadre of pre-shows around the dial:

Sean Penn, Kate Winslet, Penelope Cruz, the late Heath Ledger and movie sensation Slumdog Millionaire were the big winners at the 81st Academy Awards in Hollywood.

Mickey Rourke added to his award season haul and stole the show at the 2009 Independent Spirit Awards on Saturday with a hilarious and rambling acceptance speech.

After months of speculation, it's finally time to man up and throw down with some hardcore Oscar predictions. But before we tell you who will and should win the Oscar on Sunday night

LONDON (AP) — Rags-to-riches story "Slumdog Millionaire" continued its fairy-tale journey Sunday, winning seven prizes including best picture at the British Academy Film Awards

Two-time Golden Globe winner Kate Winslet is set for more glory - she is nominated twice in the best actress category at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts Awards (BAFTAs).

Winners at Thursday's 14th annual Critics' Choice Awards: — Picture: "Slumdog Millionaire"

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Batman blockbuster "The Dark Knight," slighted in earlier Hollywood honors, was among best-picture nominees Monday for the Producers Guild of America Awards.

The top 10 films of 2008, according to AP Movie Writer David Germain:

The Dark Knight, the sequel to Batman Begins, finds the titular superhero coming face to face with his greatest nemesis -- the dreaded Joker. Also on DVD: Horton Hears a Who! and Man on Wire.