Round One of "The Ultimate Best Picture" smackdown is over. Nearly 300,000 votes were cast in the eight match-ups. "Forrest Gump" won big and "The Godfather" just barely managed to squeak past "Gladiator." "Titanic," "The Lord of the Rings," "The Sound of Music," "Schindler's List," and "Rocky" also made the cut. And now it's on to Round Two, where the victors go head-to-head to see who moves on to the next level.
On tap for today, we have the highest grossing movie in history facing off against one of the most critically praised films of all time. That's right; it's Kate, Leo, and a big luckless ship versus the Corleone clan's Cuban adventure in a fight to the death. Also up is "Forrest Gump" -- a movie that divides people as sharply as politics -- battling against Aragorn, Frodo, and the gang in "The Return of the King." The winners of each contest will face each other in the semi-finals on Wednesday. It's sink or swim time (literally, for one of the competitors), so vote now.
Day 1 Bracket - Groups A&B
The Godfather, Part II and Titanic
Pick your favorite
Day 1 Bracket - Groups C&D
Forrest Gump and The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
Pick Your Favorite
We'll announce the grand champion on February 17th. So keep coming back to cheer on your proverbial pony. And keep posting comments on why you made your choice.