Oscars Predictions

Here are my predictions for the major categories of the Oscars.

Best Picture: Argo

I would have picked Lincoln when the nominations first came out, but Argo has been emerging as the favorite in the weeks since.  I think Ben Affleck's non-nomination for Best Director is the best thing that could have happened to the movie, because it shined a spotlight on the movie and I bet some people voted for it because they were outraged over Ben's snub.

Best Actor in a Leading Role: Daniel Day Lewis, Lincoln

It would be a big surprise if Daniel Day Lewis doesn't win.  I didn't see the movie, but Mr. Y did and he said Daniel Day Lewis was amazing.

Best Actress in a Leading Role: Jennifer Lawrence, Silver Linings Playbook

This one comes down to Jennifer Lawrence or Jessica Chastain, with Emmanuelle Riva as the dark horse.  I pick Jennifer Lawrence because I think she will give the best speech.

Best Actor in a Supporting Role: Tommy Lee Jones, Lincoln

This category is a bit of a toss-up, too, and all of them are former winners.  I would not be surprised if any of them win.

Best Actress in a Supporting Role: Anne Hathaway, Les Miserables

Unlike Best Supporting Actor, this is Anne Hathaway all the way.

Best Cinematography: Life of Pi

I think Life of Pi should win this one because it's an amazing piece of cinematography.

Directing: Steven Spielberg, Lincoln

Ang Lee might also win this one because Life of Pi was a great cinematic achievement.  However, Argo's surging popularity actually makes Steven Spielberg an underdog for this category.  Since voters can't award Ben Affleck, they might give this one to Spielberg as a consolation prize for not voting for Lincoln for Best Picture.

Visual Effects: Life of Pi

Bengal tiger and shipwreck - Life of Pi by a mile.

Writing (Adapted Screenplay): Argo

Chris Terrio wrote a great script that balanced tension, drama, and some comedy.  He has stiff competition, but he should win this one.

Writing (Original Screenplay): Zero Dark Thirty

Mark Boal is the favorite in this category.  Zero Dark Thirty is polarizing, but the screenplay has been universally lauded.