The History

Ten years ago this year, I introduced a discussion forum on this site. Called the Unofficial Academy Awards Discussion Board, the posters came from all over the world to partake in discussions about everyone's favorite awards show: The Oscars.

Over the years, hundreds have dropped by to make a post or two, but a few dedicated posters still remain. There is a sense of camaraderie amongst the members that is amazing to see and feel. Sure, we've had our ups and downs, but our common appreciation for movies and all things Oscar have kept us together.

Inside the Web was our first home. They closed up shop about seven years ago and after that, we made our new home through ikonboard. Hosted now entirely on oscarguy.com, the UAADB continues to thrive. Data has been lost a number of times thanks to computer crashes or failed upgrades, but we've managed to persevere. That which was lost has been started over.

While the number of posts made by each member slowly increments, a few notable faces have graced the board with their wit and creativity and whether I agree with them or not, many of us are friends. As I talk about each of our members here, let me say that all below is posted with love and affection for them and I say nothing to be mean or spiteful, for they certainly feel like family.

Our most prolific poster is Sonic Youth. Sonic's spends most of his time in the political forum, sa do a number of us, but he always has something to say and some of it's even constructive. He's the only member to pass 4,000 posts and currently boasts some 5100 messages.

Within the 3000 club are members who've been with the site since the very beginning. Yours truly is among them, but significantly behind. Big Magilla, also known as Peter J. Patrick, is our illustrious DVD personality and level head on the board. He has taken his passion for films and brought a great deal of insight to the UAADB. Topping the 3k club is the renowned Damien. Author of one of the most beloved books on Academy history (along with his late writing partner Mason) Damien isn't afraid to speak his mind whether it's to admonish posters for their love of "goddam cartoons" or to share his unique brand of personal philosophy.

-Wesley Lovell (August 12, 2007)