Sunday is Oscar night and I admit I have not seen every movie nominated but I did see most and here are my predictions.

This year 10 films are nominated for best picture including: “Avatar;” “Up;” “District 9;” “Inglorious Basterds;” “The Blind Side;” “The Hurt Locker;” “Up in the Air;” “An Education;” “Precious;” and “A Serious Man.”

I really enjoyed watching the animated film “Up” and I’m glad to know it’s in the running. If you haven’t seen this movie it’s wonderful and well worth it. A very nice film indeed for the entire family and it’s great to know that the film’s hero is the age of a grandpa.

Quentin Tarantino’s “Inglorious Basterds” was an excellent film and deserves to be nominated. It’s a witty movie with superb dialogue, awesome characters and great acting.

“Precious” was a good film, not my favorite though and not as dark as some said it was. But overall a powerful movie. I don’t think it will win unfortunately.

Critics say it will come down to “Avatar” and “The Hurt Locker.” I did not catch “The Hurt Locker” but I did see “Avatar.”

“Avatar” was definitely entertaining and the special effects were amazing. I thought it was a good film but the acting and the plot did not blow me away. But I can see why it will most likely win best picture.

For best director nominees include: James Cameron, “Avatar;” Kathryn Bigelow, “The Hurt Locker;” Quentin Tarantino, “Inglorious Basterds;” Lee Daniels, “Precious;” and Jason Reitman, “Up in the Air.”

Many think Bigelow, who was once married to Cameron, will get the award and become the first woman ever to win the category.

Personally I think Tarantino should win but it would also be nice if Daniels takes the prize too. In the end if it comes down to Cameron and Bigelow, I’m rooting for Bigelow. We’ll see.

The supporting actress nominees include: Penelope Cruz, “Nine;” Vera Farmiga, “Up in the Air;” Maggie Gyllenhaal, “Crazy Heart;” Ana Kendrick, “Up in the Air;” and Mo’Nique in “Precious.”

Without a doubt I think Mo’Nique should win and so do many others. Her role as an abusive mother in the film reaches deep places only talented and extraordinary actors could bring to life. You go girl!

Supporting actors nominated include: Matt Damon, “Invictus;” Woody Harrelson, “The Messenger;” Christopher Plummer, “The Last Station;” Stanley Tucci, “The Lovely Bones;” and Christoph Waltz in “Inglorious Basterds.”

Again, no question Waltz’ should win. His acting as a ruthless Nazi in “Basterds” was executed with sheer brilliance.

For best actress runners up are: Sandra Bullock, “The Blind Side;” Helen Mirren, “The Last Station;” Carey Mulligan, “An Education;” Gabourey Sidibe;” and Meryl Streep in “Julie & Julia.”

I think it would be great if Sidibe wins. However I do think it’s time for Streep to win the Oscar, being the most nominated actress in academy awards history. Streep’s role as Julia Childs was a pure delight. Streep’s decorated resume and acting abilities continue to make the business less so about the profits and more about the beauty of the craft. Streep deserves this one.

Finally for best actor: Jeff Bridges, “Crazy Heart;” George Clooney, “Up in the Air;” Colin Firth, “A Single Man;” Morgan Freeman, “Invictus;” Jeremy Renner, “The Hurt Locker.”

I think it will come down to Bridges or Freeman. Many critics predict Bridges will win. Honestly I’m not sure about this one. Some say Clooney, who is widely admired in the Hollywood community, rightfully so due to his respected charity work, could swing the vote.

Overall I think films this year were a little disappointing. I hope next year will be a lot better. Enjoy the Oscars!

 

 

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CONTRIBUTOR

Pepe Lozano
Pepe Lozano

Chicagoan Pepe Lozano was a staff writer with the People's World through 2014. He comes from an activist family and has lived on the city's southwest side in a predominantly Mexican-American community his whole life. Lozano now works as a union organizer.    

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