Best Picture
10%
Atonement
For It
Despite its postmodern spin on the period romance, it's still the only
old-fashioned ''Oscar movie'' of the bunch. Voters swayed by traditional
production values — sets, costumes, and overall scope — will mark their
ballots accordingly.
Against It
Aren't the days of the typical ''Oscar movie'' over? Plus, the lack of a
Best Director nod for Joe Wright essentially kills its chances.
15%
Juno
For It
Oscar loves a crowd-pleasing hit, and the cheapest-produced Best Picture
nominee has become the top grosser by far, with $117 million and
counting. It's the lone feel-good film against four very heavy
competitors.
Against It
It got only four nods, the fewest of any film in this race (the others
have 7 or 8). The cheapest movie doesn't usually end up on top. And its
lack of a SAG best-cast nomination still stings.
25%
Michael Clayton
For It
An exciting rookie director and Hollywood's favorite statesman teamed up
and revitalized the legal-thriller genre. Impressively, it's the only
film to score multiple acting nominations this year.
Against It
Recent Oscar history proves that it's nearly impossible to win Best
Picture without a Best Film Editing nom. Just ask Brokeback Mountain.
30%
No Country for Old Men
For It
The Coen brothers' violent crime caper takes place in 1980, yet is
utterly relevant in 2008. And it contains some of the best acting of the
year. After sweeping the guild awards, its Oscar dominance seems
inevitable.
Against It
In short, that ending. Even some of the film's most ardent supporters
concede that the last 20 minutes are something of a confusing letdown.
20%
There Will Be Blood
For It
The brutal oil epic tied with No Country for the most nods and is
showing the most 11th-hour momentum. It's arguably the coolest choice
and will rack up votes from young Hollywood, which worships Paul Thomas
Anderson.
Against It
For every viewer who loves it, there seems to be another who finds it
long, loud, and, well, weird. It may have to settle for a Best Actor win.
Next Page: Our predictions for Best Actor and Best Actress
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