‘Biutiful’ is capturing a lot of attention…possible award nom?

Have you heard about the movie Biutiful? It’c causing all kinds of a stir on the interwebs. The movies Biutiful is a love story between a father and his children. It releases in theaters January 28, 2011

It’s The buzz surrounding Javier Bardem’s acclaimed work in Biutiful has intensified, and now even Julia Roberts is expressing her love! Last night, Roberts hosted a screening of Biutiful and she spoke exclusively with EW.com’s Dave Karger, addressing the lack of awards season recognition thus far for his highly-praised performance.

ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: What is it about Javier’s performance in Biutiful that you’re so passionate about?

JULIA ROBERTS: He’s so raw and completely open to sharing every emotion this character has. I was telling him at dinner tonight, when I watched it I had to keep stopping and saying, “Okay, this is not actually happening to Javier.” Because it’s his face and his big eyes. I think it’s unexpected for a man to expose himself so deeply. And it’s incredibly agonizing in its subtleties. I just have a great appreciation for what he went through to show us all this. I know it had to hurt.

So why hasn’t he gotten more recognition? There was no SAG nomination, no Globe nomination, not even a critics award.
I think the movie hasn’t gotten the exposure. You don’t know where it is. It’s like this hidden little jewel. Especially in this particular season, people don’t hunt for things. They just take what you throw in their face.

I know of at least one Academy member who put the Biutiful DVD in the player and took it out after the first half hour because it was just too bleak.
I don’t know how you couldn’t want to know what happens. I hope that person is haunted until the end of time wanting to know what happened.

So is there any hope for Javier? Can he score enough No. 1 votes to get a Best Actor nomination?
If there’s not hope for talent, then we’re f-ed.

If Javier is your No. 1 pick, what about your other Eat Pray Love costar, James Franco?
Oh God, don’t put me in that position! It’s apples and oranges. He’s hosting the Oscars, so he might have an edge.

Your next movie is August: Osage County with Meryl Streep. Could that be your return trip to the ceremony?
I think that will just be my trip to heaven to be with Meryl Streep in that scenario. It’s a dream come true.