That's too bad. Probably to accommodate the increased number of best picture nominees. Why couldn't they cut the president's speech (ie. when everyone gets up to get a sandwich.) or something?
Okay, Best Original Screenplay. This is a big test for Best Picture; if Boal wins here, no way is The Hurt Locker losing. I'd prefer Tarantino, personally.
I saw The Hurt Locker and it was OK but I think I was dulled by having watched Generation Kill on HBO.