1.
Gravity (2013)
A medical engineer and an astronaut work together to survive after an accident leaves them adrift in space. (91 mins.)
Director: Alfonso Cuarón
Stars: Sandra Bullock, George Clooney, Ed Harris, Orto Ignatiussen
“ Why It's In the Running
Visual Masterpiece. Everything about this movie on a technical standpoint is 100% perfect, from the Visual Effects, to the sound, the music and editing, it's all just right. On an emotional level, it does what it needs to do really well I thought. You really felt for the two people on screen, especially Sandra Bullock who should get a nomination for this movie.
So with that in mind lets talk awards. A Lock for Best Visual Effects and Best Cinematography, not just for nominations, but for wins; I am fairly confident it is taking those two. Editing, Sound and Score are probably getting nominations at the very least, cause all were fantastic I thought.
Now for the big awards, Best Picture nomination is probably going to happen. Alfonso Cuarón IMO should get nominated and win for Best Director, which is honestly very possible; I mean think about Life of Pi last year, another Visual Marvel that earned 4 Academy Awards including another Best Director win for Ang Lee. I personally think this is a much better movie in every Way than Life of Pi, and I'm sure a lot of people do too (if you don't that's fine I'm, just giving what most people's thoughts are). I think this is going to get a bunch of technical awards and a bunch of big awards.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Director / Alfonso Cuaron
Best Original Screenplay / Alfonso Cuaron
Best Actress / Sandra Bullock
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Visual Effects
Best Score
Best Sound ” - GraemeHarwell
Visual Masterpiece. Everything about this movie on a technical standpoint is 100% perfect, from the Visual Effects, to the sound, the music and editing, it's all just right. On an emotional level, it does what it needs to do really well I thought. You really felt for the two people on screen, especially Sandra Bullock who should get a nomination for this movie.
So with that in mind lets talk awards. A Lock for Best Visual Effects and Best Cinematography, not just for nominations, but for wins; I am fairly confident it is taking those two. Editing, Sound and Score are probably getting nominations at the very least, cause all were fantastic I thought.
Now for the big awards, Best Picture nomination is probably going to happen. Alfonso Cuarón IMO should get nominated and win for Best Director, which is honestly very possible; I mean think about Life of Pi last year, another Visual Marvel that earned 4 Academy Awards including another Best Director win for Ang Lee. I personally think this is a much better movie in every Way than Life of Pi, and I'm sure a lot of people do too (if you don't that's fine I'm, just giving what most people's thoughts are). I think this is going to get a bunch of technical awards and a bunch of big awards.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Director / Alfonso Cuaron
Best Original Screenplay / Alfonso Cuaron
Best Actress / Sandra Bullock
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Visual Effects
Best Score
Best Sound ” - GraemeHarwell
2.
American Hustle (2013)
A con man, Irving Rosenfeld, along with his seductive British partner Sydney Prosser is forced to work for a wild FBI agent Richie DiMaso. DiMaso pushes them into a world of Jersey powerbrokers and mafia. (129 mins.)
Director: David O. Russell
Stars: Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence
“ Why It's in The Running
About the sting operation in the late 70's codenamed ABSCAM. Great story based off true events, with a very accomplished director and an incredible cast, this is a contender without a doubt.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Director / David O' Russell
Best Original Screenplay / Eric Singer
Best Actor / Christian Bale
Best Actress / Amy Adams
Best Supporting Actor / Bradley Cooper and Jeremy Renner
Best Supporting Actress / Jennifer Lawrence
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Production Design
Best Score ” - GraemeHarwell
About the sting operation in the late 70's codenamed ABSCAM. Great story based off true events, with a very accomplished director and an incredible cast, this is a contender without a doubt.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Director / David O' Russell
Best Original Screenplay / Eric Singer
Best Actor / Christian Bale
Best Actress / Amy Adams
Best Supporting Actor / Bradley Cooper and Jeremy Renner
Best Supporting Actress / Jennifer Lawrence
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Production Design
Best Score ” - GraemeHarwell
3.
12 Years a Slave (2013)
In the antebellum United States, Solomon Northup, a free black man from upstate New York, is abducted and sold into slavery.(134 mins.)
Director: Steve McQueen
Stars: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael K. Williams, Michael Fassbender, Brad Pitt
“ Why It's In The Running
Should be a very good, very powerful and emotional film. Writer/Director Steve McQueen has not failed us yet, he won't this time I guarantee it. It's looks amazing, critics are already saying its amazing. I think we have a solid contender with this one.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Director / Steve McQueen
Best Actor / Chiwetel Ejiofor
Best Supporting Actor / Michael Fassbender
Best Adapted Screenplay / Steve McQueen and John Ridley
Best Cinematography
Best Score
Best Production Design ” - GraemeHarwell
Should be a very good, very powerful and emotional film. Writer/Director Steve McQueen has not failed us yet, he won't this time I guarantee it. It's looks amazing, critics are already saying its amazing. I think we have a solid contender with this one.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Director / Steve McQueen
Best Actor / Chiwetel Ejiofor
Best Supporting Actor / Michael Fassbender
Best Adapted Screenplay / Steve McQueen and John Ridley
Best Cinematography
Best Score
Best Production Design ” - GraemeHarwell
4.
August: Osage County (2013)
A look at the lives of the strong-willed women of the Weston family, whose paths have diverged until a family crisis brings them back to the Oklahoma house they grew up in, and to the dysfunctional woman who raised them. (130 mins.)
Director: John Wells
Stars: Meryl Streep, Dermot Mulroney, Julia Roberts, Juliette Lewis
“ Why It's In The Running
During Early Oscar consideration I usually judge movies by their directors and writers (and also a good cast). In the case of this movie, that's not really why i'm putting it on this list. It's actually the producers and distributer: George Clooney, Grant Heslov (Oscar-Winning Producers of the recent Argo) and The Weinstein Company who is the Oscar Juggernaut. Also a really really good cast with oscar nominees and winners Meryl Streep, Chris Cooper, Julia Roberts, Abigail Breslin and Juliet Lewis. Plus Ewan McGregor, Sam Shepard and up and coming star Benedict Cumberbatch. The story is very sad, involving a mom with cancer and a family member as an alcoholic. This movie was screened a while back and people have been raving about Meryl Streep's performance saying things like, "she will get her fourth oscar." So keep an eye on this one, this could be The Weinstein's big movie.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Actress / Meryl Streep
Best Supporting Actress / Julia Roberts & Margo Martindale
Best Supporting Actor / Ewan McGreggor, Benedict Cumberbatch, Sam Shepard, Chris Cooper
Best Adapted Screenplay/ Tracy Letts ” - GraemeHarwell
During Early Oscar consideration I usually judge movies by their directors and writers (and also a good cast). In the case of this movie, that's not really why i'm putting it on this list. It's actually the producers and distributer: George Clooney, Grant Heslov (Oscar-Winning Producers of the recent Argo) and The Weinstein Company who is the Oscar Juggernaut. Also a really really good cast with oscar nominees and winners Meryl Streep, Chris Cooper, Julia Roberts, Abigail Breslin and Juliet Lewis. Plus Ewan McGregor, Sam Shepard and up and coming star Benedict Cumberbatch. The story is very sad, involving a mom with cancer and a family member as an alcoholic. This movie was screened a while back and people have been raving about Meryl Streep's performance saying things like, "she will get her fourth oscar." So keep an eye on this one, this could be The Weinstein's big movie.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Actress / Meryl Streep
Best Supporting Actress / Julia Roberts & Margo Martindale
Best Supporting Actor / Ewan McGreggor, Benedict Cumberbatch, Sam Shepard, Chris Cooper
Best Adapted Screenplay/ Tracy Letts ” - GraemeHarwell
5.
The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Based on the true story of Jordan Belfort, from his rise to a wealthy stockbroker living the high life to his fall involving crime, corruption and the federal government. (165 mins.)
Director: Martin Scorsese
Stars: Leonardo DiCaprio, P.J. Byrne, Jon Favreau, Spike Jonze
“ Why it's In the Running
First off it's directed by the great Martin Scorsese and stars Leonardo Dicaprio. Both The Aviator and The Departed had that combination and it ended up with multiple gold medals, so of it can be those two and not Shutter Island which got nothing at all (even tho it should've) it will be a front runner.
A couple of things that worry me is that it is rumored to be bordering NC-17. If it is, honestly I think it's chances are gone. And even if they edit some of it out for an R rating, It will still be a highly controversial film. That worries me, cause the oscars are sensitive to controversy. Like Zero Dark Thirty once the controversy started being a big deal it harmed the film severely.
Another worry is that from the trailer (which was awesome, but anyway) it looks much more fun than the typical Oscar movie and even Scorsese movie. This is just based off that great trailer, but it is a small worry I have that it might be too fun for the academy, hopefully I'm wrong. Even with that going on, lets hope it wouldn't stop at least nominations for Leonardo DiCaprio and Scorsese.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Director / Martin Scorsese
Best Adapted Screenplay / Terence Winter
Best Actor / Leonardo Dicaprio
Best Supporting Actor / Matthew McConaghney
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Score
Best Production Design ” - GraemeHarwell
First off it's directed by the great Martin Scorsese and stars Leonardo Dicaprio. Both The Aviator and The Departed had that combination and it ended up with multiple gold medals, so of it can be those two and not Shutter Island which got nothing at all (even tho it should've) it will be a front runner.
A couple of things that worry me is that it is rumored to be bordering NC-17. If it is, honestly I think it's chances are gone. And even if they edit some of it out for an R rating, It will still be a highly controversial film. That worries me, cause the oscars are sensitive to controversy. Like Zero Dark Thirty once the controversy started being a big deal it harmed the film severely.
Another worry is that from the trailer (which was awesome, but anyway) it looks much more fun than the typical Oscar movie and even Scorsese movie. This is just based off that great trailer, but it is a small worry I have that it might be too fun for the academy, hopefully I'm wrong. Even with that going on, lets hope it wouldn't stop at least nominations for Leonardo DiCaprio and Scorsese.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Director / Martin Scorsese
Best Adapted Screenplay / Terence Winter
Best Actor / Leonardo Dicaprio
Best Supporting Actor / Matthew McConaghney
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Score
Best Production Design ” - GraemeHarwell
7.
Inside Llewyn Davis (2013)
A week in the life of a young singer as he navigates the Greenwich Village folk scene of 1961. (105 mins.)
Director: Ethan Coen, Joel Coen
Stars: Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, John Goodman, Garrett Hedlund
“ Why It's In the Running
Written & Directed by the Coen Bros. Based off the trailers, I can guarantee a nomination for Cinematography, and very possibly a Original Screenplay nomination as well. Looks really good, I can't wait to see it. The acting looks great, the story looks good and I think it will be well written as always by the Coen Bros. Definitely a contender, but I am not positive it will be a huge hit, ill have to see it for myself, and see what everyone else thinks of it as well. However, so far, a shoe in nomination for Cinematography and a very possible nod for Original Screenplay.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Director / Joel and Ethan Coen
Best Original Screenplay/ Joel and Ethan Coen
Best Actor / Oscar Isaac
Best Supporting Actor / John Goodman and Justin Timberlake
Best Supporting Actress / Carey Mulligan
Best Cinematography
Best Production Design ” - GraemeHarwell
Written & Directed by the Coen Bros. Based off the trailers, I can guarantee a nomination for Cinematography, and very possibly a Original Screenplay nomination as well. Looks really good, I can't wait to see it. The acting looks great, the story looks good and I think it will be well written as always by the Coen Bros. Definitely a contender, but I am not positive it will be a huge hit, ill have to see it for myself, and see what everyone else thinks of it as well. However, so far, a shoe in nomination for Cinematography and a very possible nod for Original Screenplay.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Director / Joel and Ethan Coen
Best Original Screenplay/ Joel and Ethan Coen
Best Actor / Oscar Isaac
Best Supporting Actor / John Goodman and Justin Timberlake
Best Supporting Actress / Carey Mulligan
Best Cinematography
Best Production Design ” - GraemeHarwell
7.
Her (2013)
A lonely writer develops an unlikely relationship with his newly purchased operating system that's designed to meet his every need. (120 mins.)
Director: Spike Jonze
Stars: Joaquin Phoenix, Amy Adams, Scarlett Johansson, Rooney Mara
“ Why It's in The Running
Not been talked about much at all, but eventually it will start to get Some buzz. Spike Jonze latest movie. He's a very oddball director who has been loved by the academy in the past. And this film looks like no exception in the oddball department. It has one of the best casts of the year, one of the most interesting premises of the year also with one of the more interesting directors of our time. So I think that says a lot about what this film can do at the awards, well just have to wait and see.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Actor / Joaquin Phoenix
Best Actress / Amy Adams
Best Supporting Actress / Scarlett Johansson & Rooney Mara
Best Original Screenplay / Spike Jonze
Best Cinematography
Best Score
Production Design ” - GraemeHarwell
Not been talked about much at all, but eventually it will start to get Some buzz. Spike Jonze latest movie. He's a very oddball director who has been loved by the academy in the past. And this film looks like no exception in the oddball department. It has one of the best casts of the year, one of the most interesting premises of the year also with one of the more interesting directors of our time. So I think that says a lot about what this film can do at the awards, well just have to wait and see.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Actor / Joaquin Phoenix
Best Actress / Amy Adams
Best Supporting Actress / Scarlett Johansson & Rooney Mara
Best Original Screenplay / Spike Jonze
Best Cinematography
Best Score
Production Design ” - GraemeHarwell
8.
Nebraska (2013)
An aging, booze-addled father makes the trip from Montana to Nebraska with his estranged son in order to claim a million dollar Mega Sweepstakes Marketing prize. (115 mins.)
Director: Alexander Payne
Stars: Bruce Dern, Will Forte, June Squibb, Bob Odenkirk
“ Why It's In Consideration
The academy loves Alexander Payne, he's a good filmmaker. The story is a bit cliched, but a good director can make the worst story better than it could be. Which he is. Weird casting, I can't describe it, just look up the cast. Anyway, Im hopeful about this movie. It's enough to make it on this list because of Payne and the cast.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Director / Alexander Payne
Best Actor / Bruce Dern
Best Supporiting Actor / Will Forte and Stacy Keach
Best Original Screenplay / Bob Nelson ” - GraemeHarwell
The academy loves Alexander Payne, he's a good filmmaker. The story is a bit cliched, but a good director can make the worst story better than it could be. Which he is. Weird casting, I can't describe it, just look up the cast. Anyway, Im hopeful about this movie. It's enough to make it on this list because of Payne and the cast.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Director / Alexander Payne
Best Actor / Bruce Dern
Best Supporiting Actor / Will Forte and Stacy Keach
Best Original Screenplay / Bob Nelson ” - GraemeHarwell
9.
Rush (2013)
A re-creation of the merciless 1970s rivalry between Formula One rivals James Hunt and Niki Lauda. (123 mins.)
Director: Ron Howard
Stars: Daniel Brühl, Chris Hemsworth, Olivia Wilde, Alexandra Maria Lara
“ Why It's In The Running
Directed by Ron Howard. I love the story and setting. About the early dangerous stages of F1 racing, and the two strong rivals racing for the trophy. I loved this movie, and while I don't think this will get any big oscars (which isn't a bad thing), I do think it will get a couple of technical awards. Definitely cinematography, score and sound will be in consideration, and maybe even best editing (which if you really think about it is the best technical award the Academy Awards gives).
Predicted Categories
Best Original Screenplay
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Original Score
Best Sound ” - GraemeHarwell
Directed by Ron Howard. I love the story and setting. About the early dangerous stages of F1 racing, and the two strong rivals racing for the trophy. I loved this movie, and while I don't think this will get any big oscars (which isn't a bad thing), I do think it will get a couple of technical awards. Definitely cinematography, score and sound will be in consideration, and maybe even best editing (which if you really think about it is the best technical award the Academy Awards gives).
Predicted Categories
Best Original Screenplay
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Original Score
Best Sound ” - GraemeHarwell
10.
Saving Mr. Banks (2013)
Author P. L. Travers reflects on her difficult childhood while meeting with filmmaker Walt Disney during production for the adaptation of her novel, Mary Poppins. (125 mins.)
Director: John Lee Hancock
Stars: Emma Thompson, Tom Hanks, Colin Farrell, Ruth Wilson
“ Why It's in The Running
The story of how Mary Poppins got made, and P.L Traver's point of view of the production on the movie based on her novel. Originally thought to be a straight up Walt Disney movie, it's actually not. From people who have screened it and read the screenplay it's actually a biopic of P.L Travlers played by Emma Thompson. She's the main focus and Walt Disney played by Tom Hanks is actually a Supporiting character (But lets be honest, no matter how small of a role Hanks has he is still gonna kill it as Disney and will still probably get some Oscar recognition). Its Also directed by John Lee Hancock who directed The Blind Side, which ended up Sandra Bullock with an Oscar. So there's a lot going for with this movie, plus a lot of Awards buzz. A True contender without a doubt.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Actress / Emma Thompson
Best Supporting Actor / Tom Hanks and Colin Ferrel
Best Original Screenplay / Kelly Marcel
Best Score ” - GraemeHarwell
The story of how Mary Poppins got made, and P.L Traver's point of view of the production on the movie based on her novel. Originally thought to be a straight up Walt Disney movie, it's actually not. From people who have screened it and read the screenplay it's actually a biopic of P.L Travlers played by Emma Thompson. She's the main focus and Walt Disney played by Tom Hanks is actually a Supporiting character (But lets be honest, no matter how small of a role Hanks has he is still gonna kill it as Disney and will still probably get some Oscar recognition). Its Also directed by John Lee Hancock who directed The Blind Side, which ended up Sandra Bullock with an Oscar. So there's a lot going for with this movie, plus a lot of Awards buzz. A True contender without a doubt.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Actress / Emma Thompson
Best Supporting Actor / Tom Hanks and Colin Ferrel
Best Original Screenplay / Kelly Marcel
Best Score ” - GraemeHarwell
11.
Captain Phillips (2013)
The true story of Captain Richard Phillips and the 2009 hijacking by Somali pirates of the US-flagged MV Maersk Alabama, the first American cargo ship to be hijacked in two hundred years.(134 mins.)
Director: Paul Greengrass
Stars: Tom Hanks, Barkhad Abdi, Barkhad Abdirahman, Faysal Ahmed
“ Why It's In The Running
Captain Philips is one of two movies Tom Hanks could possibly get a nomination. The story is a complex one, but a good one. Tom Hanks plays the Captain of a ship that gets hijacked by some Somali Pirates, first time in 200 years an American cargo ship had been taken over. As crucial as Tom Hanks is to the success of the film, for me the real star of this movie is Paul Greengrass. He does films about hijacks incredibly well ( United 93 for example, in which he was nominated for an Oscar, and deservedly so ), Greengrass with one of the best actors of all time Tom Hanks, and a great thrilling plot, I'm hopeful.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Director / Paul Greengrass
Best Actor / Tom Hanks
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Score
Best Sound ” - GraemeHarwell
Captain Philips is one of two movies Tom Hanks could possibly get a nomination. The story is a complex one, but a good one. Tom Hanks plays the Captain of a ship that gets hijacked by some Somali Pirates, first time in 200 years an American cargo ship had been taken over. As crucial as Tom Hanks is to the success of the film, for me the real star of this movie is Paul Greengrass. He does films about hijacks incredibly well ( United 93 for example, in which he was nominated for an Oscar, and deservedly so ), Greengrass with one of the best actors of all time Tom Hanks, and a great thrilling plot, I'm hopeful.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Director / Paul Greengrass
Best Actor / Tom Hanks
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Score
Best Sound ” - GraemeHarwell
12.
All Is Lost (2013)
After a collision with a shipping container at sea, a resourceful sailor finds himself, despite all efforts to the contrary, staring his mortality in the face. (106 mins.)
Director: J.C. Chandor
Stars: Robert Redford
“ Why It's In The Running
Very interesting story with some great talent behind it. Robert Redford is the only cast member in this entire movie and he is struggling to survive in the Ocean after colliding with ship container. J.C. Candor is the writer and director of this movie who also did Margin Call that won him a Best Original Screenplay Nomination. So there's a lot going for this movie, and if its great I think it has a good chance at some awards.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Director / J.C. Candor
Best Actor / Robert Redford
Best Original Screenplay / J.C. Candor
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Score ” - GraemeHarwell
Very interesting story with some great talent behind it. Robert Redford is the only cast member in this entire movie and he is struggling to survive in the Ocean after colliding with ship container. J.C. Candor is the writer and director of this movie who also did Margin Call that won him a Best Original Screenplay Nomination. So there's a lot going for this movie, and if its great I think it has a good chance at some awards.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Director / J.C. Candor
Best Actor / Robert Redford
Best Original Screenplay / J.C. Candor
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Score ” - GraemeHarwell
13.
The Past (2013)
An Iranian man deserts his French wife and two children to return to his homeland. Meanwhile, his wife starts up a new relationship, a reality her husband confronts upon his wife's request for a divorce. (130 mins.)
Director: Asghar Farhadi
Stars: Bérénice Bejo, Tahar Rahim, Ali Mosaffa, Pauline Burlet
“ Why It's In The Running
This I think will be the Foreign Film of the year. Directed by Ashgar Farhadi who directed the highest rated movie of 2011 "A Separation." So already there's a lot going for this movie, and already it's starting to meet those expectations. People everywhere are loving this movie. So I think that a Foreign Picture nod is a given, and maybe other major ones as well.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Actress / Berenice Bejo
Best Foreign Film
Best Original Screenplay / Asghar Farhadi
” - GraemeHarwell
This I think will be the Foreign Film of the year. Directed by Ashgar Farhadi who directed the highest rated movie of 2011 "A Separation." So already there's a lot going for this movie, and already it's starting to meet those expectations. People everywhere are loving this movie. So I think that a Foreign Picture nod is a given, and maybe other major ones as well.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Actress / Berenice Bejo
Best Foreign Film
Best Original Screenplay / Asghar Farhadi
” - GraemeHarwell
14.
Fruitvale Station (2013)
The purportedly true story of Oscar Grant III, a 22-year-old Bay Area resident, who crosses paths with friends, enemies, family, and strangers on the last day of 2008. (85 mins.)
Director: Ryan Coogler
Stars: Michael B. Jordan, Melonie Diaz, Octavia Spencer, Kevin Durand
“ Why It's In The Running
I haven't seen this movie and I'm sure it's pretty good.
But I personally don't get it. All people will talk about is, "Oh My God! The Weinstein Company is distributing it, it's a contender!"
Please people, as powerful as they are they aren't god, and they can only focus so heavily on one movie a year. They have so many this year to bid on and promote, and I have a feeling this will not be that movie.
Another thing people say to back it up is that it was well received at Sundance, and since they bumped up the nominations for best picture there has been one movie from Sundance and Cannes festival at all of them. Which is a good argument. However, theres a lot of other small films that could like Fruitvale that could also be in consideration, and I still have a hard time believing that it will be a huge success at the Oscars.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Actor / Michael B. Jordan
Best Supporting Actress/ Octavia Spencer
Best Original Screenplay / Ryan Coogler ” - GraemeHarwell
I haven't seen this movie and I'm sure it's pretty good.
But I personally don't get it. All people will talk about is, "Oh My God! The Weinstein Company is distributing it, it's a contender!"
Please people, as powerful as they are they aren't god, and they can only focus so heavily on one movie a year. They have so many this year to bid on and promote, and I have a feeling this will not be that movie.
Another thing people say to back it up is that it was well received at Sundance, and since they bumped up the nominations for best picture there has been one movie from Sundance and Cannes festival at all of them. Which is a good argument. However, theres a lot of other small films that could like Fruitvale that could also be in consideration, and I still have a hard time believing that it will be a huge success at the Oscars.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Actor / Michael B. Jordan
Best Supporting Actress/ Octavia Spencer
Best Original Screenplay / Ryan Coogler ” - GraemeHarwell
15.
Dallas Buyers Club (2013)
The story of Texas electrician Ron Woodroof and his battle with the medical establishment and pharmaceutical... (117 mins.)
Director: Jean-Marc Vallée
Stars: Matthew McConaughey, Jennifer Garner, Jared Leto, Steve Zahn
“ Why It's In The Running
Matthew McConaughey is really proving himself as a good actor again. Back in the 90's he had Dazed and Confused, A Time To Kill and that set him up really well. Than he went on to do bad romantic comedies. Now he's back to his roots with a vengeance and even exceeding it. With Mud and Killer Joe he is back, and he is amazing.
Dallas Buyers Club is one of the serious films he's doing this year along with Mud and Wolf of Wall Street. He lost a ton of weight for the role and it has been well received. Also being released it December aka oscar season. It is a sure contender because of the talent involved, and of course because McConaughey is playing a cancer patient gay man with aids. I can't wait to see it for myself, I know it will be a marvel.
Predicted Categoires:
Best Picture
Best Actor / Matthew McConaughey
Best Supporting Actress / Jennifer Gardner
Best Supporting Actor / Jared Leto
Best Original Screenplay / Craig Borten & Mellisa Wallack ” - GraemeHarwell
Matthew McConaughey is really proving himself as a good actor again. Back in the 90's he had Dazed and Confused, A Time To Kill and that set him up really well. Than he went on to do bad romantic comedies. Now he's back to his roots with a vengeance and even exceeding it. With Mud and Killer Joe he is back, and he is amazing.
Dallas Buyers Club is one of the serious films he's doing this year along with Mud and Wolf of Wall Street. He lost a ton of weight for the role and it has been well received. Also being released it December aka oscar season. It is a sure contender because of the talent involved, and of course because McConaughey is playing a cancer patient gay man with aids. I can't wait to see it for myself, I know it will be a marvel.
Predicted Categoires:
Best Picture
Best Actor / Matthew McConaughey
Best Supporting Actress / Jennifer Gardner
Best Supporting Actor / Jared Leto
Best Original Screenplay / Craig Borten & Mellisa Wallack ” - GraemeHarwell
16.
Blue Jasmine (2013)
A New York socialite, deeply troubled and in denial, arrives in San Francisco to impose upon her sister. She looks a million, but isn't bringing money, peace, or love... (98 mins.)
Director: Woody Allen
Stars: Cate Blanchett, Alec Baldwin, Peter Sarsgaard, Sally Hawkins
“ Why It's In The Running
Written & Directed by Woody Allen. This is his latest film, it's been really successful critically and financially and for good reason. This is a great film, with a great lead performance by Cate Blanchett and some very good writing as usual by Woody Allen. Cate Blanchett stole the show, she was really really good I thought, and I really think she could and should be considered for an Oscar nomination at least, very good job she did. Also Allen's usual great writing could get recognized as well, I thought he did a very fine job with both writing and directing.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Original Screenplay / Woody Allen
Best Actress / Cate Blanchett ” - GraemeHarwell
Written & Directed by Woody Allen. This is his latest film, it's been really successful critically and financially and for good reason. This is a great film, with a great lead performance by Cate Blanchett and some very good writing as usual by Woody Allen. Cate Blanchett stole the show, she was really really good I thought, and I really think she could and should be considered for an Oscar nomination at least, very good job she did. Also Allen's usual great writing could get recognized as well, I thought he did a very fine job with both writing and directing.
Predicted Categories:
Best Picture
Best Original Screenplay / Woody Allen
Best Actress / Cate Blanchett ” - GraemeHarwell
17.
Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013)
A chronicle of Nelson Mandela's life journey from his childhood in a rural village through to his inauguration as the first democratically elected president of South Africa. (146 mins.)
Director: Justin Chadwick
Stars: Idris Elba, Naomie Harris, Terry Pheto, Robert Hobbs
“ Why It's In The Running
Mandela is a big name, and this film is a Weinstein Company production. But the way i see it is, Mandela has already been portrayed by one of the best actors alive Morgan Freeman back in 2008 in Invictus and even that failed to get him a win. So I don't know, I can only see it getting nominations for acting.
Predicted Categories:
Best Actor/ Idris Elba
Best Supporting Actress / Naomi Harris ” - GraemeHarwell
Mandela is a big name, and this film is a Weinstein Company production. But the way i see it is, Mandela has already been portrayed by one of the best actors alive Morgan Freeman back in 2008 in Invictus and even that failed to get him a win. So I don't know, I can only see it getting nominations for acting.
Predicted Categories:
Best Actor/ Idris Elba
Best Supporting Actress / Naomi Harris ” - GraemeHarwell
18.
Before Midnight (2013)
We meet Jesse and Celine nine years on in Greece. Almost two decades have passed since their first meeting on that train bound for Vienna. (109 mins.)
Director: Richard Linklater
Stars: Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy, Seamus Davey-Fitzpatrick, Ariane Labed
“ Why It's In The Running
This is the sequel to Before Sunset. Which was a sequel to a successful indie drama Before Sunrise, you probably already know this. And this sequel is about their married life. People love this movie. It's been well received by both critics and audiences and that's great cause this movie has a lot to live up to. I'm not positive on the Oscar chances but I'm not going to leave it out of the list.
Predicted Categories
Best Actress
Best Adapted Screenplay / Richard Linklater, Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy ” - GraemeHarwell
This is the sequel to Before Sunset. Which was a sequel to a successful indie drama Before Sunrise, you probably already know this. And this sequel is about their married life. People love this movie. It's been well received by both critics and audiences and that's great cause this movie has a lot to live up to. I'm not positive on the Oscar chances but I'm not going to leave it out of the list.
Predicted Categories
Best Actress
Best Adapted Screenplay / Richard Linklater, Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy ” - GraemeHarwell
19.
Prisoners (2013)
When Keller Dover's daughter and her friend go missing, he takes matters into his own hands as the police pursue multiple leads and the pressure mounts. But just how far will this desperate father go to protect his family? (153 mins.)
Director: Denis Villeneuve
Stars: Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Viola Davis, Melissa Leo
“ Why It's In The Running
The cast is huge and full of great talent and past nominees included last years Hugh Jackman, also shot beautifully by the great Roger Deakins. Fantastic movie, Not very buzzed at the moment, but the critics are saying nothing but good things and the audience loves it as well. So we could have a surprise hit with this one.
Predicted Categories:
Best Actor / Hugh Jackman
Best Supporting Actor / Jake Gyllenhaal
Best Supporting Actress / Viola Davis and Maria Bello
Best Original Screenplay Aaron Guzikowski
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Score ” - GraemeHarwell
The cast is huge and full of great talent and past nominees included last years Hugh Jackman, also shot beautifully by the great Roger Deakins. Fantastic movie, Not very buzzed at the moment, but the critics are saying nothing but good things and the audience loves it as well. So we could have a surprise hit with this one.
Predicted Categories:
Best Actor / Hugh Jackman
Best Supporting Actor / Jake Gyllenhaal
Best Supporting Actress / Viola Davis and Maria Bello
Best Original Screenplay Aaron Guzikowski
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Score ” - GraemeHarwell
20.
The Fifth Estate (2013)
A dramatic thriller based on real events that reveals the quest to expose the deceptions and corruptions of power that turned an Internet upstart into the 21st century's most fiercely debated organization. (128 mins.)
Director: Bill Condon
Stars: Benedict Cumberbatch, Daniel Brühl, Carice van Houten, Alicia Vikander
“ Why It's In The Running
This just looks like a really good movie. But I am not very confident that it will be a big Oscar contender. Unless some of the films listed above are not as good as we hope and this movie is better than we expected, than I will completely second guess its chances.
Predicted Categories:
Best Actor / Benedict Cumberbatch
Best Supporting Actor / Daniel Brühl
Best Adapted Screenplay / Josh Singer
Best Editing
Best Score ” - GraemeHarwell
This just looks like a really good movie. But I am not very confident that it will be a big Oscar contender. Unless some of the films listed above are not as good as we hope and this movie is better than we expected, than I will completely second guess its chances.
Predicted Categories:
Best Actor / Benedict Cumberbatch
Best Supporting Actor / Daniel Brühl
Best Adapted Screenplay / Josh Singer
Best Editing
Best Score ” - GraemeHarwell
21.
Out of the Furnace (2013)
When Rodney Baze mysteriously disappears and law enforcement fails to follow through, his older brother, Russell, takes matters into his own hands to find justice. (116 mins.)
Director: Scott Cooper
Stars: Christian Bale, Casey Affleck, Zoe Saldana, Woody Harrelson
“ Why It's In The Running
Not much buzz for this movie yet and I think even if it is great it doesn't have a good chance at much of anything. I could be wrong but I think it's such a crowded year that this will be left out of the race even if its really good. Another thing to point out is that Christian Bale has American Hustle which i think will be his big oscar film, not this one. So I don't have a lot of hope for this one unfortunately but I have to put it on here because the director did Crazy Heart which earned Jeff Bridges an Oscar, so there's some hope for this one.
Predicted Categories:
Best Actor / Christian Bale
Best Supporting Actor / Casey Affleck
Best Original Screenplay / Brad Ingelsby and Scott Cooper ” - GraemeHarwell
Not much buzz for this movie yet and I think even if it is great it doesn't have a good chance at much of anything. I could be wrong but I think it's such a crowded year that this will be left out of the race even if its really good. Another thing to point out is that Christian Bale has American Hustle which i think will be his big oscar film, not this one. So I don't have a lot of hope for this one unfortunately but I have to put it on here because the director did Crazy Heart which earned Jeff Bridges an Oscar, so there's some hope for this one.
Predicted Categories:
Best Actor / Christian Bale
Best Supporting Actor / Casey Affleck
Best Original Screenplay / Brad Ingelsby and Scott Cooper ” - GraemeHarwell
22.
Labor Day (2013)
Depressed single mom Adele and her son Henry offer a wounded, fearsome man a ride. As police search town for the escaped convict, the mother and son gradually learn his true story as their options become increasingly limited. (111 mins.)
Director: Jason Reitman
Stars: Josh Brolin, Kate Winslet, Clark Gregg, James Van Der Beek
“ Why It's In The Running
A Jason Reitman film. Good director, successful and has a couple of nominations and films with wins attached to them; this movie should be at least good, but I'll have to wait for a trailer to say completely that it's an Oscar contender.
Predicted Categories:
Best Actress/ Kate Winslet
Best Supporting Actor / Josh Brolin ” - GraemeHarwell
A Jason Reitman film. Good director, successful and has a couple of nominations and films with wins attached to them; this movie should be at least good, but I'll have to wait for a trailer to say completely that it's an Oscar contender.
Predicted Categories:
Best Actress/ Kate Winslet
Best Supporting Actor / Josh Brolin ” - GraemeHarwell
24.
Lee Daniels' The Butler (2013)
As Cecil Gaines serves eight presidents during his tenure as a butler at the White House, the civil rights movement, Vietnam, and other major events affect this man's life, family, and American society. (132 mins.)
Director: Lee Daniels
Stars: Forest Whitaker, Oprah Winfrey, John Cusack, Jane Fonda
“ Why It's in the Running
I think this this looks like complete Oscar Bate. Not the good kind, the failed kind. Directed and Co-Written by Lee Daniels of Precious fame, it is about the man who was a butler for 8 presidents. The people playing the presidents look nothing like the people they're playing at all (Except Alan Rickman). I'll have to see it before I can say such negativity to it. But right now I don't think it will be the great big contender we were hoping for.
Predicted Categories:
Best Supporting Actress / Oprah Winfrey, Jane Fonda
Best Costume Design ” - GraemeHarwell
I think this this looks like complete Oscar Bate. Not the good kind, the failed kind. Directed and Co-Written by Lee Daniels of Precious fame, it is about the man who was a butler for 8 presidents. The people playing the presidents look nothing like the people they're playing at all (Except Alan Rickman). I'll have to see it before I can say such negativity to it. But right now I don't think it will be the great big contender we were hoping for.
Predicted Categories:
Best Supporting Actress / Oprah Winfrey, Jane Fonda
Best Costume Design ” - GraemeHarwell
24.
Monsters University (2013)
A look at the relationship between Mike and Sulley during their days at Monsters University -- when they weren't necessarily the best of friends. (104 mins.)
Director: Dan Scanlon
Stars: Billy Crystal, John Goodman, Steve Buscemi, Helen Mirren
“ Why It's in The running
Pixar films always get nominated, and on that note, it's probably going to win the award just because it is a Pixar film. Last years Brave only won because of that, but Brave was a little mediocre and this movie was so much better, I am fairly confident that this will take the gold.
Predicted Category:
Best Animated Feature ” - GraemeHarwell
Pixar films always get nominated, and on that note, it's probably going to win the award just because it is a Pixar film. Last years Brave only won because of that, but Brave was a little mediocre and this movie was so much better, I am fairly confident that this will take the gold.
Predicted Category:
Best Animated Feature ” - GraemeHarwell
25.
Frozen (2013)
Fearless optimist Anna teams up with Kristoff in an epic journey, encountering Everest-like conditions, and a hilarious snowman named Olaf in a race to find Anna's sister Elsa, whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom in eternal winter.
Director: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee
Stars: Kristen Bell, Josh Gad, Idina Menzel, Alan Tudyk
“ Why It's In The Running
It's a new disney animation film musical. It looks from the trailers like a grade B version of Tangled set in the Winter. It might just get a nomination, just because of the fact that this years animation is relatively small and isn't looking good at all. So this one might just stick out the most besides Monsters U.
Predicted Category:
Best Animated Feature ” - GraemeHarwell
It's a new disney animation film musical. It looks from the trailers like a grade B version of Tangled set in the Winter. It might just get a nomination, just because of the fact that this years animation is relatively small and isn't looking good at all. So this one might just stick out the most besides Monsters U.
Predicted Category:
Best Animated Feature ” - GraemeHarwell
26.
Elysium (2013)
In the year 2154, the very wealthy live on a man-made space station while the rest of the population resides on a ruined Earth. A man takes on a mission that could bring equality to the polarized worlds. (109 mins.)
Director: Neill Blomkamp
Stars: Matt Damon, Jodie Foster, Sharlto Copley, Alice Braga
“ Why It's in Consideration
The director Neil Blomkamp came on the screen with District 9 and blew us away, with great visuals and grittiness to boost the story instead of cover it. And it was nominated for Best Picture, it was the same year they increased the number of nods, but it was still nominated for that and a few other categories like Adapted Screenplay and of course Visual Effects.
Neil Blomkamp returns with Elysium. With a bigger budget, bigger and more well known cast and a bigger story. Bigger doesn't exactly mean better, but categories like Visual Effects are in the bag.
Predicted Categories:
Best Production Design
Best Visual Effects
Best Sound ” - GraemeHarwell
The director Neil Blomkamp came on the screen with District 9 and blew us away, with great visuals and grittiness to boost the story instead of cover it. And it was nominated for Best Picture, it was the same year they increased the number of nods, but it was still nominated for that and a few other categories like Adapted Screenplay and of course Visual Effects.
Neil Blomkamp returns with Elysium. With a bigger budget, bigger and more well known cast and a bigger story. Bigger doesn't exactly mean better, but categories like Visual Effects are in the bag.
Predicted Categories:
Best Production Design
Best Visual Effects
Best Sound ” - GraemeHarwell
27.
Only God Forgives (2013)
Julian, a drug-smuggler thriving in Bangkok's criminal underworld, sees his life get even more complicated when his mother compels him to find and kill whoever is responsible for his brother's recent death. (90 mins.)
Director: Nicolas Winding Refn
Stars: Ryan Gosling, Kristin Scott Thomas, Vithaya Pansringarm, Gordon Brown
“ Why It's In the Running
The cinematography looks astounding, similar to Drive which is also directed by Nicholas Winding Refn. Drive was a fan favorite and overall safe bet to get quite a lot of nominations that it never ended up getting. Because of that I don't think this movie could be any different. The film is too bizarre and weird for the Academy, but I am hopeful that Cinematography isn't out of the question, because wow, it looked beautiful.
Predicted Categories:
Best Cinematography
” - GraemeHarwell
The cinematography looks astounding, similar to Drive which is also directed by Nicholas Winding Refn. Drive was a fan favorite and overall safe bet to get quite a lot of nominations that it never ended up getting. Because of that I don't think this movie could be any different. The film is too bizarre and weird for the Academy, but I am hopeful that Cinematography isn't out of the question, because wow, it looked beautiful.
Predicted Categories:
Best Cinematography
” - GraemeHarwell
28.
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)
The Dwarves, Bilbo and Gandalf have successfully escaped the Misty Mountains, and Bilbo has gained the One Ring. They all continue their journey to get their gold back from the Dragon, Smaug.
Director: Peter Jackson
Stars: Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, Richard Armitage, Benedict Cumberbatch
“ Why It's In The Running
The first hobbit film got in a few technical categories and if It hadn't been for Life of Pi it would've taken Visual Effects I think. This is a pretty crowded year for big visual effects heavy films, but what's so different about this movie is it's release date and the history behind the movies with the original trilogy gathering up over 30 nominations and 17 wins total. And the fact that last Years The Hobbit An Unexpected Journey gathered in a few nods i won't hesitate to put this sequel on the list.
Predicted Categories:
Best Visual Effects
Best Production Design
Best Makeup
Best Sound
Best Score ” - GraemeHarwell
The first hobbit film got in a few technical categories and if It hadn't been for Life of Pi it would've taken Visual Effects I think. This is a pretty crowded year for big visual effects heavy films, but what's so different about this movie is it's release date and the history behind the movies with the original trilogy gathering up over 30 nominations and 17 wins total. And the fact that last Years The Hobbit An Unexpected Journey gathered in a few nods i won't hesitate to put this sequel on the list.
Predicted Categories:
Best Visual Effects
Best Production Design
Best Makeup
Best Sound
Best Score ” - GraemeHarwell
29.
Pacific Rim (2013)
As a war between humankind and monstrous sea creatures wages on, a former pilot and a trainee are paired up to drive a seemingly obsolete special weapon in a desperate effort to save the world from the apocalypse. (131 mins.)
Director: Guillermo del Toro
Stars: Idris Elba, Charlie Hunnam, Rinko Kikuchi, Charlie Day
“ Why It's In The Running
Now we get to the technical award films. Not exactly a major contender, but in certain technical categories It might have a good shot. I put it on this list is because of Guillermo del Toro, his movie Pan's Labyrinth got a bunch of nominations and wins. Even tho it's not as good Pans, it still gives us some great visuals and sound.
Predicted Categories:
Best Visual Effects
Best Sound ” - GraemeHarwell
Now we get to the technical award films. Not exactly a major contender, but in certain technical categories It might have a good shot. I put it on this list is because of Guillermo del Toro, his movie Pan's Labyrinth got a bunch of nominations and wins. Even tho it's not as good Pans, it still gives us some great visuals and sound.
Predicted Categories:
Best Visual Effects
Best Sound ” - GraemeHarwell
30.
Star Trek Into Darkness (2013)
After the crew of the Enterprise find an unstoppable force of terror from within their own organization, Captain Kirk leads a manhunt to a war-zone world to capture a one man weapon of mass destruction. (132 mins.)
Director: J.J. Abrams
Stars: Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldana, Benedict Cumberbatch
“ Why It's In The Running
The sequel to Star Trek. Which was nominated for a lot of Technical awards and if it weren't for Avatar that year, it could've had a shot at winning more than it did (which was just Make-Up). This movie takes all the great technical aspects of the first and improves it. Again, superb sound effects, visuals that are some of the best out there, and the make up is there but it's not showed as much as the other aspects. However sound and visual effects are definitely somewhere in consideration in my book at least.
BTW if I ran the world Cumberbatch would completely get a nomination at least, he was amazing. Haven't seen a better villain performance and character since the Joker.
Predicted Categories:
Best Visual Effects
Best Sound
Best Make-Up ” - GraemeHarwell
The sequel to Star Trek. Which was nominated for a lot of Technical awards and if it weren't for Avatar that year, it could've had a shot at winning more than it did (which was just Make-Up). This movie takes all the great technical aspects of the first and improves it. Again, superb sound effects, visuals that are some of the best out there, and the make up is there but it's not showed as much as the other aspects. However sound and visual effects are definitely somewhere in consideration in my book at least.
BTW if I ran the world Cumberbatch would completely get a nomination at least, he was amazing. Haven't seen a better villain performance and character since the Joker.
Predicted Categories:
Best Visual Effects
Best Sound
Best Make-Up ” - GraemeHarwell
31.
Ender's Game (2013)
The International Military seek out a leader who can save the human race from an alien attack. Ender Wiggin, a brilliant young mind, is recruited and trained to lead his fellow soldiers into a battle that will determine the future of Earth. (114 mins.)
Director: Gavin Hood
Stars: Harrison Ford, Asa Butterfield, Hailee Steinfeld, Abigail Breslin
“ Why It's In The Running
It's an adaptation of a very popular classic novel by the same name Enders Game. Basically Hunger Games meets Starship Troopers. It's been in production for a very long time and the crucial and classic zero gravity sequences are rumored to be the main focus so that's a good sign that the visuals will be great.
Predicted Categories:
Best Visual Effects
” - GraemeHarwell
It's an adaptation of a very popular classic novel by the same name Enders Game. Basically Hunger Games meets Starship Troopers. It's been in production for a very long time and the crucial and classic zero gravity sequences are rumored to be the main focus so that's a good sign that the visuals will be great.
Predicted Categories:
Best Visual Effects
” - GraemeHarwell
32.
Man of Steel (2013)
A young itinerant worker is forced to confront his secret extraterrestrial heritage when Earth is invaded by members of his race. (143 mins.)
Director: Zack Snyder
Stars: Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Michael Shannon, Diane Lane
“ Why It's In The Running
Another not so strong contender. There's still some things it could get recognized for, it's great visuals and sound. That's why it makes this list.
Predicted Categories:
Best Visual Effects
Best Sound
Best Original Score ” - GraemeHarwell
Another not so strong contender. There's still some things it could get recognized for, it's great visuals and sound. That's why it makes this list.
Predicted Categories:
Best Visual Effects
Best Sound
Best Original Score ” - GraemeHarwell
33.
Thor: The Dark World (2013)
Faced with an enemy that even Odin and Asgard cannot withstand, Thor must embark on his most perilous and personal journey yet, one that will reunite him with Jane Foster and force him to sacrifice everything to save us all. (120 mins.)
Director: Alan Taylor
Stars: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Stellan Skarsgård
“ Why It's In The Running
Sequel to Thor. This movie interests me because they have Alan Taylor directing. If you don't know who he is, he has done lots of episodes for Sopranos and Game of Thrones. Having experience with GOT gets me really excited, because we have somebody that knows how to do fantasy very well. Apparently it's bigger and more epic than the first. The budget is a lot bigger than whatever Taylor had to work with on Game of Thrones, so I am really looking forward to what he can do with it.
Predicted Categories:
Best Visual Effects
Best Production Design ” - GraemeHarwell
Sequel to Thor. This movie interests me because they have Alan Taylor directing. If you don't know who he is, he has done lots of episodes for Sopranos and Game of Thrones. Having experience with GOT gets me really excited, because we have somebody that knows how to do fantasy very well. Apparently it's bigger and more epic than the first. The budget is a lot bigger than whatever Taylor had to work with on Game of Thrones, so I am really looking forward to what he can do with it.
Predicted Categories:
Best Visual Effects
Best Production Design ” - GraemeHarwell
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