It’s that time of year again, when Hollywood’s finest fight it out in their best Versace for the most prestigious of awards, the golden Oscar. The 88th Academy Awards, which will take place this year on February 28, are guaranteed to be a nail biting affair for film-lovers. Although some things are almost certain, such as the chance that J-Law will fall over in front of everyone, the Academy Awards are generally rather unpredictable. A lot of critics cite the Golden Globes as the precursor for the Academy Awards. But if that were the case why the ruddy hell has Leonardo DiCaprio still not won an Oscar despite his three Golden Globes? The Golden Globes also have the benefit of having more varied categories, differentiating Drama and Comedy/Musical. At the Oscars, there can only be one victor. Without further ado, here are my predictions:
Star Wars?
My bet is, the Force will not be with them. It may be the third biggest global movie of all time, but that doesn’t make it Oscar worthy. Star Wars may be a financial and commercial monster, but the sad fact is that the Star Wars franchise hasn’t achieved so much as a nomination from the Academy since 1977. Perhaps it’s the fanboys, or those corny lightsabres, but I just don’t see anything changing. Can you really imagine a character called Supreme leader Snoke receiving a Supporting Actor nomination? Just, no.

Best Picture?
The Martian and The Revenant will go head to head. They were both allowed to win Best Picture at the Globes, after that whole farce of The Martian being categorised as a Comedy or Musical. Right… At the Oscars, however, such allowances don’t stand. These two star headed blockbusters are sure to go head to head for the title for Best Picture. Other Best Picture nominations will probably include The Big Short (Pitt, Gosling and Bale. Come on.) Mad Max will probably garner a nomination, as will Carol and Spotlight.

Best Actress?
Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara will both receive Best Actress nominations for Carol. My money’s on Cate. Whatta woman. But I’m sure Rooney’s nice too.

The Danish Girl?
Eddie Redmayne will receive a nomination for Best Actor for his stunning portrayal of Lili Elbe in The Danish Girl. However, the film itself probably won’t be up for any big awards.

The Revenant?
The Revenant will sweep up: After its success at the globes, and with its stunning cinematography and raw emotional drama, The Revenant is sure to gain a lot of nominations, including for Best Picture, Actor and Director.

An Oscar for Leo?
Leonardo DiCaprio will finally get an Oscar, the internet will explode, I will cry and all will finally be right with the world. After all, the man risked hypothermia, slept in an animal carcass and ate a Bison’s liver (did I mention he’s a vegetarian) for the role. Talk about an endurance test. Kate Winslet will probably sob during his acceptance speech, run into his arms and declare her undying love for him and they’ll go on to make babies and… okay, I may be getting ahead of myself here.
