Sandra Bullock spoke of maintaining a good work ethic for years to come. Woody Harrelson spoke of soldiers. Carey Mulligan spoke about bumping butts with Quentin Tarantino.

This season's Academy Awards elite gathered yesterday in Beverly Hills, Calif., for the annual nominees luncheon, with table talk ranging from matters such as the war on terror to what to wear to the big show.

Before sharing a meal, nominees spoke to reporters about events leading to the March 7 Oscar ceremony.

Harrelson, a supporting-actor nominee for the homefront war drama "The Messenger," and Jeremy Renner, a best-actor contender for the Iraq war saga "The Hurt Locker," said their roles instilled fresh respect for troops fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan.

"I walk up to any military personnel I can find, and I shake their hand and I thank them for their service," Renner said.

NO MORE OSCAR SPECIALS, WALTERS SAYS

What will Oscar night be without Barbara Walters' tree questions and lap dances with guests? We're not sure, but we will soon find out.

Walters announced on "The View" that her 29th special, which will feature interviews with nominees Sandra Bullock and Mo'Nique, will be her last.

"I think I'm sick of them," Walters said. "I feel I've been there, done that. Twenty-nine years is enough."

Walters, who left "20/20" after 25 years, said she will still co-host "The View," go on special assignment for ABC News and continue her "The 10 Most Fascinating People" special.

'24' SHUTS DOWN FOR SUTHERLAND SURGERY

Production of the Fox network thriller "24" has been temporarily shut down so that star and executive producer Kiefer Sutherland can undergo surgery.

Shooting is expected to resume next week with Sutherland's return. Twentieth Century Fox Television would not comment on Sutherland's ailment, referring to it only as "a medical procedure." The Los Angeles Times said Sutherland had a ruptured cyst.

Sutherland plays counter terrorist hero Jack Bauer on the series.

DIRECTOR'S TOO FAT TO FLY, SOUTHWEST SAYS

Kevin Smith says he's "way fat," but that shouldn't stop him from flying.

The director and actor says a pilot ejected him from a Southwest Airlines flight from Oakland to Burbank, Calif., saying he didn't fit properly in a single seat.

On his Twitter page Sunday, Smith said "I'm way fat, but I'm not there just yet," and "If you look like me, you may be ejected from Southwest Air."

He posted a picture of himself sitting on the plane with his cheeks puffed out.

Southwest says travelers must be able to fit safely and comfortably in one seat or make other arrangements.