Picture
Prediction: La La Land
Alternate: Moonlight
My Vote: Moonlight
Should Have Been Nominated: 20th Century Women
-- There's really no use in questioning it at this point. Whether La La Land sweeps or there's a generous spread of wealth among the other categories, it'll likely take this category easily. Moonlight would be my choice and the only one that could feasibly unseat it.
Director
Prediction: Damien Chazelle
Alternate: Barry Jenkins
My Vote: Barry Jenkins
Should Have Been Nominated: Mia Hansen-Love - Things to Come
-- Same story as Best Picture.
Actress
Prediction: Emma Stone
Alternate: Isabelle Huppert
My Vote: Isabelle Huppert
Should Have Been Nominated: Annette Bening - 20th Century Women
-- If there was any doubt over the Bona Fide Star status of Emma Stone's career, they'll be put to rest shortly. I couldn't be happier for her, and she'd likely be my choice if not for Huppert. Stay tuned for more about this lineup.
Actor
Prediction: Denzel Washington
Alternate: Casey Affleck
My Vote: Denzel Washington
Should Have Been Nominated: Vincent Lindon - The Measure of a Man
-- A two-horse race between Denzel and Casey. An excitingly tight race, but I'm leaning Denzel.
Supporting Actress
Prediction: Viola Davis
Alternate: Michelle Williams
My Vote: Viola Davis
Should Have Been Nominated: Greta Gerwig - 20th Century Women
-- Hook, line, and sinker, this is Viola's Oscar to lose. I'd have her as a lead, but she earns the praise and win, and I understand arguments for Supporting.
