The Oscars' Lackluster Red Carpet

Por Isis Sauceda / L.A.
      It had been raining all night, but when the stars started to arrive on the red carpet the sun came out for the most important evening in Hollywood: the 80th annual Academy Awards, otherwise known as the Oscars. But there wasn’t much star-power excitement on this year’s red carpet, as many celebs moved swiftly down the promenade, not leaving much time to chat.

      It was certainly a night of couples, though, and one in particular stood out. Michael Clayton star George Clooney – formerly one of Hollywood’s most sought-after bachelors – couldn’t hide his affection for his girlfriend Sarah Larson, as he kept his arm wrapped lovingly around her waist.

      But a slew of starlets weren’t afraid to go solo on the carpet this year, including Cameron Díaz, Renée Zellweger and Jennifer Garner.

      Spanish actor Javier Bardem, who won the Best Supporting Actor category for his role as the villain in No Country for Old Men, arrived on the arm of his mother. And even though he was one of the most eagerly awaited stars by the press and the fans, he didn’t stop to say hi – and with good reason. Minutes after he showed up, his (unconfirmed) girlfriend Penélope Cruz arrived, but she didn’t walk the red carpet, opting instead to disappear into the celebrity crowd inside.

      A radiant Jessica Alba hit the red carpet with her fiancé Cash Warren in a beautiful purple gown that left her shoulders bare and shaded her bulging baby bump.

      Another mom-to-be at the event was Nicole Kidman, who arrived on the arm of her husband Keith Urban and showed off her growing belly.

      The most uncomfortable moment on the carpet this year came from eccentric actor Gary Busey, who interrupted Jennifer Garner during an interview by giving her an awkward kiss on the neck. At least Busey added a little spice to the event!