The highly anticipated and fiercely competitive race for the 95th Academy Awards is heating up as films from various genres are being positioned as potential Best Picture contenders. This forecast, assembled by Scott Feinberg, The Hollywood Reporter’s executive editor of awards coverage, reflects his best attempt to predict the behavior of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, not his personal preferences. He arrives at these projections by drawing upon conversations with voters and other industry insiders, analysis of marketing and awards campaigns, results of awards ceremonies that precede the Oscars, and the history of the Oscars itself. There will be regular updates to reflect new developments as the race evolves.
The Best Picture category is currently fronted by some highly anticipated and intriguing films, including “American Fiction,” “Oppenheimer,” “Barbie,” “Poor Things,” “Killers of the Flower Moon,” and several others. These movies are already generating a lot of buzz and anticipation, making them strong frontrunners for the coveted Best Picture award. Additionally, the major threats like “All of Us Strangers,” “Anatomy of a Fall,” and “Nyad” are also expected to make an impact and could potentially upset the frontrunners with their unique storytelling and artistic brilliance. The list of possibilities includes films like “Priscilla,” “Ferrari,” and “Air,” showcasing the diverse range of genres and styles that will make this year’s race incredibly exciting.
In the Best Director category, renowned filmmakers like Christopher Nolan, Greta Gerwig, Martin Scorsese, and Cord Jefferson are leading the pack with their highly anticipated projects. However, there are also major threats like Yorgos Lanthimos, Bradley Cooper, and Celine Song, who are gearing up to give fierce competition to the frontrunners. The list of possibilities also includes directors like Andrew Haigh, Justine Triet, and Michael Mann, whose visionary work is expected to make a significant impact in the race for Best Director.
The race for Best Actor is also extremely competitive, with actors like Bradley Cooper, Paul Giamatti, Cillian Murphy, and Jeffrey Wright leading the way. The major threats include Leonardo DiCaprio, Andrew Scott, and Nicolas Cage, who are expected to deliver standout performances in their respective roles. The list of possibilities features Adam Driver, Gael García Bernal, and Alden Ehrenreich, among others, who could potentially emerge as strong contenders in the race for Best Actor.
Similarly, in the Best Actress category, Annette Bening, Emma Stone, Margot Robbie, and Lily Gladstone are currently positioned as frontrunners, with their powerful performances generating a lot of attention and praise. The major threats include Natalie Portman, Greta Lee, and Sandra Hüller, who are expected to deliver captivating performances in their respective roles. The list of possibilities includes Eve Hewson, Leonie Benesch, and Phoebe Dynevor, who are poised to make a lasting impression with their noteworthy performances.
The Best Supporting Actor and Best Supporting Actress categories feature a diverse range of performers who are expected to shine in their respective roles. The frontrunners and major threats include a mix of established veterans and rising talent, promising an exciting race in these categories.
In the screenplay categories, both adapted and original, there are numerous films with compelling stories and engaging dialogue, positioning themselves as strong contenders for the prestigious awards.
Furthermore, the race for the Best International Feature and Best Documentary Feature categories promises to be equally riveting, with a range of compelling and thought-provoking films vying for recognition.
In the Best Animated Feature category, a diverse mix of animated films from various studios are expected to captivate audiences and critics alike, making this a fiercely competitive race.
As the race for the 95th Academy Awards unfolds, all eyes will be on these exciting contenders as they make their way towards the ultimate recognition in the world of cinema. With a mix of established industry veterans and promising newcomers, this year’s award season promises to be thrilling and unpredictable, with each film and artist vying for their moment in the spotlight.
