-- By Tom Phillips
OK, why was Michelle Obama handing out the Oscar for Best Picture
from the White House? It’s a question
that gnawed at my subconscious mind for hours after the broadcast ended Sunday
night, until the answer -- or at least a likely scenario – flashed on me the
next day.
The first lady’s appearance was unusual, and a total
surprise. But this kind of cameo – involving the White
House, a TV network, and a closely guarded envelope --had to be
planned weeks or months in advance. The
plans were hatched back when there was no question about who would
win Best Picture – when everyone thought “Lincoln
