Preparations for 81st annual Academy Awards (21 images)

Flowers are placed around an Oscar statue as preparations continue for the 81st annual Academy Awards in Los Angeles on February 19, 2009. (UPI Photo/ Phil McCarten)

Workers place a large Oscar poster as preparations continue for the 81st annual Academy Awards in Los Angeles on February 19, 2009. (UPI Photo/ Phil McCarten)

An Oscar statue awaits placement as preparations continue for the 81st annual Academy Awards in Los Angeles on February 19, 2009. (UPI Photo/ Phil McCarten)

Red carpet is layed near the entrance of the Kodak Theatre as preparations continue for the 81st annual Academy Awards in Los Angeles on February 19, 2009. (UPI Photo/ Phil McCarten)