Ross Bonaime, Staff Writer

Best Director
Who Should and Will Win:

This year, it’s the battle of the exes as Kathryn Bigelow and James Cameron face off. But the advantage goes to Bigelow for The Hurt Locker. Her gritty take of the conflict in the Middle East dripping with realism and some of the most memorable shots of the year will hopefully make Bigelow the first female ever to take home the award.

Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role
Who Will Win:

Thirty-eight years after his first nomination, Jeff Bridges is a shoo-in for the best actor Oscar with his fifth nomination for his alcoholic country singer Bad Blake in Crazy Heart. After four decades, Bridges should finally get his overdue Oscar.

Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role
Who Should and Will Win:

Mo’Nique for Precious is going home with this award, no question. Her fellow nominees are all well-deserved (except for you, Ms. Gyllenhaal), and Mo’Nique’s performance is without a doubt one of the best.

Best Picture of the Year
Who Will Win:

This year is truly a battle between Avatar and The Hurt Locker. While Avatar was a remarkable success, most critics agree that The Hurt Locker is definitely the year’s best.

Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role
Who Will Win:

Sandra Bullock came out of nowhere to become the favorite for her portrayal of the football-loving mother Leigh Anne Tuohy in The Blind Side. Many are proclaiming this is Bullock’s comeback role and her advancement into deeper roles.

Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role
Who Should and Will Win:

Like Mo’Nique, Christoph Waltz in Inglourious Basterds is a definite winner. Relative newcomer Waltz’s subtle yet terrifying role deserves to be mentioned alongside previous winners Heath Ledger for The Dark Knight and Javier Bardem in No Country For Old Men.