Originally posted by Lavinia from Italy:
[QUOTE]... He was already a great movie star, a living legend. He did not need the Oscar presentation to find a large audience to listen to him.
I remember watching that Oscar telecast as a kid. Everybody was certain Brando would win, and when they called his name my mother wondered who the heck that sad looking Indian girl was getting up to accept for him.
I think she got boo'd a little bit, too.
In one of the many Brando biographies it was speculated that Brando was unimpressed with his acting talents, almost ashamed that this is the way he made so much money and became so famous. He was also unimpressed with Hollywood. He did make other appearances while speaking out for the Indians...but also knew that to bring the issue to light via the Academy Awards while refusing to accept hiw own award would bring nationwide and lasting attention that a 2-minute newsreel interview could not.
It would also stick it to the movie business.
I never really minded Brando's grandstanding with regard to his Godfather Oscar. I just wish he'd had the guts to do it himself, instead of sending some sweet little costume-clad actress to take the stage and the heat for him. I think the overall effect was more negative than positive.
Apple