Oscar Predictions

First of all, I was shocked to see that there were 10 movies nominated for Best Picture instead of the typical 5 which was a tradition maintained since 1943. I really didn't think it was necessary for them to nomincate all these 10 especially with movies like District 9 and Up on the list (these are good films, but I don't see them as having any real chance at winning). So now for my predictions:

Best Picture:
What will win: Avatar-- when it comes down to it, as much as the Academy would like to claim that they are about artistic expression, their main goal is box office sales and revenue. In an age where it is getting harder and harder to convince people out of their living rooms and from their flat screen televisions and into the theaters, Avatar and the 3d technology it has pioneered represents a shining beacon of hope for those in the film industry who feared blockbusters were extinct. Although this movie is plot wise and acting wise not the best film of the year: the Academy has no choice but to reward its defibrillator that has revived the industry

What could win: Jason Reitman's comedic social commentary Up In The Air.

Best Director:

Who will win: James Cameron for Avatar
Who could win: Katheryn Bigelow for the Hurt Locker
Who should win: Quentin Tarantino for Inglorious Bastards

Best Actor:
Who will win: George Clooney: The Academy loves him and never before has he deserved to win an award more than for Up in the Air

Best Actress:
Who will win: Sandra Bullock for The Blind Side (and not completely undeservedly)
Who should win: Carey Mulligan for An Education-- excellent performance in an underpublicized, but nonetheless great film
Please don't win: Gabourey Sidibe for Precious-- mediocre performance in an overpublicized and mediocre (at best) film

Best Supporting Actor:
Who will and should win: Christoph Waltz for his remarkable performance and ability to bring evil to life in Inglorious Basterds.

Best Supporting Actress:
Who will win: Mo'Nique (unfortunately)

Best Foreign Film
Who will win: The White Ribbon

Best Animated Film:
Who will and should win: Up for being one of the greatest animated films that subtly integrates large adult themes in an entertaining Disney feature.