Who do you think will win? Prepare your predictions for an Oscar contest in the Feb. 19 issue of the Advocate.

Actress in a leading role 

This category breaks historical precedent this year, with the youngest (Quvenzhane Wallis, age 9) and oldest (Emmanuelle Riva, age 85) nominees to ever be recognized. While both are fantastic in their roles, neither have much of a chance against frontrunner Jessica Chastain. Other than the SAGs, Chastain’s portrayal of a Bin Laden hunting CIA agent has clinched all the major awards; it’s more likely than not the Academy will join in this trend and honor her.

However, I am rooting for Jennifer Lawrence as a neurotic widow in “Silver Linings Playbook.” Her performance is unbelievably real and emotionally captivating. Since she won the SAG award, there is hope, so keep your fingers crossed.

Actress in a supporting role 

It is no surprise that Anne Hathaway has been sweeping the supporting actress category, winning all the major awards this year; if you saw “Les Miserables,” you felt the raw pain of her torturous life as Fantine. I have no doubt the dream she dreamed will come reality and she will take home the Oscar, especially since she’s the hands down favorite.

Her only threat might be Sally Field as Mary Todd Lincoln, but Hathaway’s performance and success are indisputable.

BY BRIAN ASHBURN
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