New Orleans, La.--I know I’m biased.

I was when I first saw the movie Ray which was filmed in Louisiana and which Jamie Foxx won the academy award for best actor and I am as Benjamin Button is being heralded.

"The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" goes into the 81st Academy Awards, with 13 nominations including best picture.  The movie featuring Brad Pitt was filmed in New Orleans and received Louisiana movie tax credits.

For those who have not seen the movie, please do.  It is not only a fascinating and moving film, but, it features New Orleans probably better than any movie I have ever seen.  It was one of those movies when you feel that you have witnessed a stunning piece of art.  With both “Ray” and “Benjamin Button”, I watched the credits flow down the screen as tears flowed down my eyes.  During the premiere, as I entered the theater’s hall, I saw the other patrons also had swollen eyes and were indeed speechless. 

Now with these nominations, the Academy realizes the beauty of the film, the incredible acting and special effects. Benjamin Button is truly “Louisiana Proud” and as Brad Pitt told me in an interview, “It’s a lovely film, a lovely film.  I am really happy about it”.  He also said it was a love story for New Orleans.

Considering how Brad Pitt and his wife Angelina Jolie have embraced the city and the state, we could not ask for better ambassadors. 

Now, judging by the Academy’s nominations it is a returned love story for Benjamin Button and Brad Pitt.  May all of us have a long, fruitful and memorable marriage.

See part of Bayoubuzz's Interview With Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie