The only really high quality movies that were “Oscar quality” in recent years have been foreign movies. Hollywood can make movies will special effects up the wazzoo, but they can’t tell a story worth a crap.
I think Dark Knight is an exception to that rule. A great film that combines special effects, story, and art beautifully. Too bad it wasn’t nominated for Best Picture.
It’s because they have put preaching before story telling the last twenty or so years. I will say I loved Australia and thought Valkyrie were both well worth seeing and enjoyed both.