The latest news from the fictional Republic of Wadiya is that its leader will attend the Oscars, in costume! After some publicity, the powers that be have allowed Sacha Baron Cohen to come as Shabazz Aladeen, the character in his new movie, “The Dictator.” The producers of the Oscars have changed their tune, proclaiming, “We’re thrilled to have him, and he’ll be on the red carpet dressed as the Dictator.” The dictator’s response?  On his website he wrote, “Victory is ours!  The Academy have surrendered and sent over two tickets and a parking pass! Today the Mighty Nation of Wadiya triumphed over the Zionist snakes of Hollywood. Evil and all those who made Satan their protector were vanquished and driven into the Pacific Sea. Today Oscar, tomorrow Obama!”

Ben Kingsley, who played opposite Mr. Baron Cohen in “Hugo” and “The Dictator,” praised his co-star. “He’s in great form. Very intelligent, lovely man.” Was he surprised at the controversy Cohen was able to stir up? “Not remotely,” Mr. Kingsley said. “It’s very imaginative, very clever.”  How do you feel about Cohen finally being allowed in as his character? Do you think he’s smart, or do you think his form of humour is of a lower form?

“The Dictator” is due May 11.