Nominated for 11 Academy Awards? Did the Academy even WATCH this film?

Rating: 2/10 (24 June 2007)

I rented this film after hearing a lot of praise for it. However, I had high hopes that were never realised. To be blunt, it was painful to watch.
This film is one of the most boring movies I have ever watched. In fact, I stopped it after less than an hour to take a suddenly-desired nap. After resuming, I kept looking at the clock wondering how much longer I was going to have to sit through the film. I have no problem with lengthy films, as long as the story can maintain the attention span. And, a film doesn't have to be action-packed to do that. "Patton" and "Ray" are great examples of long, biographical films that keep the audience interested.
Granted, I did learn a little about Mr Hughes (as most film biographies intend to do). A lot of his personal issues were presented, but nothing came of them. Most of the film built the background for the Senate Committee hearing, but that hearing itself was shown for about 15 minutes and the outcome was not known. What was the point of even bringing it up? As an aside note, I found it funny how the Maine Senator heading the committee looked a bit like Vice President Dick Cheney. Coincidence? Or did Mr Scorsese try to make another Hollywood political statement? I just couldn't wait until this film was over. But, I was surprised at the abrupt ending. One minute you are watching this guy go through another OCD attack, the next you are watching the credits. I thought "What? It's over just like that?" but reminded myself to be grateful my suffering had ended.
This movie sucked.