None of the films nominated were box office successes, as such. Making money is not the only reason a picture wins an Oscar.

Crash was the only one of the nominees that I saw, so I can't make a comparison. I can say that it impressed me geatly. Both the writing and acting ensemble were superb. Aparently the Academy agreed with me.

I'm planning on seeing Brokeback Mountain as soon as I can. I refuse to pass judgement on anyone's sexual beliefs or practices.