Oscar Predictions

Well, I have not had the time to research and study as I normally do. I have seen 9 of the 10 Best Picture Nominations, which I consider fairly impressive. In order to post prior to the ceremony, I am only picking some of the major categories, and will be doing so without a lot of explanation.

Best Supporting Actress - Hailee Stanfield. The Academy normally awards this as their rogue category, and while Leo was the favorite early, she hasn't helped her cause with the "suggestive" self promoting. Great way to honor a really quality film. I would be happy if this prediction is reality.

Best Supporting Actor - Christian Bale will win, and should win. His performance is reminiscent of Deniro and Pacino in the 70s. Truly talented and respected (even though a few years ago his verbal tirade turned off many) for his craft.

Best Actress - Natalie Portman deserves this, and rightfully so. Her performance stands above her peers this year and she has racked up the awards. Expect an emotional speech, tinged with a bit of puppy love for her current companion (and father of her child, who coincidentally worked on the film).

Best Actor - Colin Firth will win. I consider this category weak this year overall (not seeing Franco's performance just yet). While this isn't my favorite Firth performance, it is his to lose. I wonder how awkward this is for Franco due to his hosting gig?

Best Director - David Fincher. The Social Network is HIS film, and the Academy will most likely honor this film here, rather than as Best Picture. There is a part of me that would love for Aronofsky to steal this prize, but it is highly unlikely.

Best Picture - The King's Speech seems to be the front-runner. This will be disappointing for me (it barely made my Top Ten of the year). Formulaic, and not exquisitely shot, it is a heart-warming story. In my opinion, this award should go to The Social Network for it's relevance and beauty (from score, to screenplay, to performances -- a great film).

Animated Feature - Toy Story ... the true n0-brainer of the night. (Although I wasn't as impressed as many were. However, I hadn't truly seen the first run in their entirety, so maybe I wasn't invested enough in Woody and Buzz -- although that is changing as my son ages).

Adapted Screenplay - Aaron Sorkin ... another no-brainer. Can he please be a co-writer for every other Hollywood film?

Original Screenplay - While I would vote for Inception, I think The King's Speech has too much momentum.

Cinematography - I am looking for True Grit to squeak by with a win. A beautifully shot film in a classic genre will sway voters.

Hopefully I can post my minor category picks later. If not, I will complete a post-Oscar post within a day or so of the show (hopefully!).

I can't wait for my Oscar Omelet this evening ... celebrating with what may be a new Wilson tradition!