Halle Berry won the best actress Oscar this year for her role as the wife of a death row convict in Monster's Ball.

"If the measure of good dramatic entertainment is the breadth and depth of the feelings it explores and inspires then Monster's Ball ranks among the very best," wrote BBC News Online's Rebecca Thomas.

But what do you think? Was Berry's performance worthy of the Oscar? Is the film outstanding? Or is it all a fuss about nothing?

Although her Oscar speech bordered on the hysterical, Berry well deserved both the award and critical praise. This is one of the most dramatically powerful films I have ever seen - the raw nerves of loss, longing and redemption.
Robert del Valle, USA

I think the box office gross speaks to whether of not the film was outstanding.

Berry's performance is applauded because of her nudity. Was it worthy of an Oscar? Was Julia Roberts in Erin Brockavich?
Eve, USA

This is a very disturbing film in places but very poignant and touching. A must see.
Paul, UK

Berry is an otstanding actress and well deserved the award. The film is good, although I wouldn't say great. Her speech was no more ridiculous than many other OTT speeches from Hollywood stars.
Dave M, USA (from UK)

There is no doubt to the depth of emotion and authenticity Halle Berry gives to the character Leticia in Monster's Ball - of her peers she is truly a leading light. However, what baffles me is the disregard given to Billy Bob Thornton for his stunning performance. For me, Thornton carried the movie from being run-of-the-mill to understated greatness.
V. Nathan, England

Yes, I think her performance was very good - worthy of an Oscar. I left the cinema in a reflective mood. That alone is tribute enough to the quality of her acting.
Azubuike, Nigeria

While I have never been particularly wild about Halle Berry, she gives a heart-stopping performance in a searing drama that is well worth the Academy Award. Finally an American film that has substance. Billy Bob Thornton is superb. This film will make you laugh unexpectedly and cry...several times. Brilliant, but not for the feeble of heart.
Rich Ascroft, Holland

Initially I wanted Nikki K to win the Best Actress Oscar but after seeing this superb hard hitting film, I knew Halle deserved it. Shame Billy Bob also didn't get a nod. Go see this film! It's wonderful.
P Johnson, USA (but from UK)

I saw Monster Ball soon after the Oscars. She deserved it. The rawness of the grief, the anger and the hope were deftly portrayed by Halle Berry. I can understand why she was so hysterical at winning the Oscar because it was not a pretty or flattering role. And there is a long history of racism in Hollywood, and in America. I can't wait to see her next dramatic role.
Heather Brennan, Canada

Monster's Ball was a depressing movie, but the acting was top notch. Halle deserved the Oscar.
Scott Bohe, USA

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