Until the final hour of the show -- it ran 30 minutes longer than planned -- "The Matrix, " a dark fantasy of futuristic terrorism, was building an impressive lead in technical awards.

CNN: Entertainment - 'American Beauty' comes up with five roses

But my story was upstairs with Rich Miller, the producer of the Scientific and Technical Academy Awards.

NPR: Sci-Tech Awards: Oscars Sans Glitz

Mr. RICH MILLER (Producer, Scientific and Technical Academy Awards): I mean everybody is in tuxedos and the women are in formal wear.

NPR: Sci-Tech Awards: Oscars Sans Glitz