A great man has left us. When I was nominated for an Academy Award for Gosford Park in 2002, Sidney Poitier and Robert Redford were the honorary Oscar recipients that year. The week before the Oscars, the Academy hosts a luncheon for all the nominees. Each nominee is called forward, in alphabetical order, to stand with other nominees next to a 12 foot Oscar for what the Academy calls a “class picture.” Bob Altman and I were called early — the luck of having an “A” and “B” last name —and the applause was warm. When they came to the “P’s” and announced Sidney Poitier, the room went crazy. Many of the nominees stood on chairs and tables cheering and shouting his name. Many people were crying through their cheers. The ovation went on for 7 or 8 minutes. I still get goosebumps when I think about it. Sidney Poitier, who always wore his fame gracefully, stood near the 12 foot Oscar humble and overwhelmed. Progress has been slow, but in the last few Oscar years, we’re finally seeing change at last. I’m glad Sidney lived long enough to see how many gifted actors and filmmakers of color are now walking up the path he made for them.