I’ve been doing some pre-Awards Season examining of the categories and potential candidates. A handful of websites are already posting “Top 30” lists for most of the categories. Of course, such rankings are pure speculation at the moment, and they’ll drastically change each week between now and December. I’m going in a different direction: For each of the seven major categories, I have a choice that isn’t obvious or on any other lists…yet. I’m going out on a limb, predicting that some, if not all, of these will get serious nomination consideration, at the very least.
Best Picture – “Patriots Day”
Peter Berg’s Boston Marathon bombing drama has all the makings of a contender – true, familiar, emotional, story, compelling lead in Mark Wahlberg, strong supporting cast in John Goodman and J.K. Simmons, and a limited, Dec. 21 open. Back when I heard this movie was in development I instantly thought “Best Picture Nominee”.
Best Director – John Lee Hancock, “The Founder”
The Weinstein Co. screened the McDonald’s origin drama for test audiences and the scores were through-the-roof, praising the movie and star Michael Keaton. The studio then moved it from August to a limited, Dec. 16 open. If “The Founder” is as good as it sounds, it’s time for Hancock (who also directed “The Blind Side” and “Saving Mr. Banks”) to be recognized.
Best Actor – Will Smith, “Collateral Beauty”
In an act of “redemption”, following last year’s “Concussion” snub, Smith will be a prime contender for his work as an ad-man on a downhill spiral in the holiday dramedy from “The Devil Wears Prada” director David Frankel.
Best Actress – Rebecca Hall, “Christine”
If indie studio The Orchard has the resources to put together an effective marketing campaign, Hall chould secure multiple nominations for her performance as the 1970s TV news reporter who committed suicide live on the air. Reviews from the Sundance screening were glowing.
Best Supporting Actor – J.K. Simmons
The “Whiplash” Oscar winner has plenty of opportunities to get back in a race, with roles in “Patriots Day”, “La La Land” and “The Accountant”. His work alongside Susan Sarandon earlier this year in the comedy “The Meddler” is understated, brilliant and also worthy of attention. Regardless, his cumulative year (which also includes voice performances in “Kung Fu Panda 3” and “Zootopia”) makes him the early frontrunner for 2017 Roger Ebert Actor of the Year homors at The LCJ Movie Awards.
Best Supporting Actress – Felicity Jones, “A Monster Calls”
Focus Features just moved this fantasy adventure’s release date from a crowded Oct. 21 to a Limited Open Dec. 23, which bodes well for both the film and Jones. Based on the trailer, and the fact that she’s also in “Inferno” and “Rogue One”, look for Jones to be a “force” with voters.
Best Animated Feature – “Sing”
Illumination Entertainment (“Despicable Me”, “The Secret Life of Pets”) is behind the final animated film of the year: this animal singing competition comedy which opens Dec. 21. Featuring a star-studded voice cast and a unique premise, this could be the “sleeper” addition to everyone’s Best Animated Feature category. Reaction to “Sing”‘s premiere at the Toronto Film Festival on Sept. 11 will likely decide its fate.
BONUS PREDICTION
When I saw “Florence Foster Jenkins” back in June, I was prepared for another showcase performance from Meryl Streep. To my surprise, the opera singer biopic devotes more screen time to Jenkins’s husband, St. Clair Bayfield, played by Hugh Grant. His work didn’t blow me away (neither did Streep’s), though he does have some quality, showcase moments. When “Florence” was released last month, everyone PRAISED Grant, with Entertainment Weekly declaring “Let the Hugh Grant Oscar Buzz Begin”. I don’t see that, but I do predict Grant will receive a Supporting Actor BAFTA nomination, considering the organization is from his native, England.