Since we've already had the Critic's Choice, Golden Globes, and SAG Awards, we have a pretty good indicator of how the voting will go. And this year, if anything, it may be more predictable.
In December, I gave a full bucket to my choice for best picture -- the "King's Speech." Like I say, only the British can do historical dramas like that. It's been the front runner after the "Social Network" took an early lead. That film is an interesting look at the founding of Facebook and there is a local connection.
"Social Network" Director David Fincher spent his early years in San Anselmo and worked for ILM in the 80s. I like his chances. However, tradition shows the director of the best film usually wins, which means the top honor will go to "The King's Speech" director Tom Hooper.
Best actor? No contest, classy Colin Firth will win in "The King's Speech."
I'm picking Natalie Portman in "Black Swan" as best actress. I raved about her performance as the ballerina going mad.
In the supporting actor category, I really like Jeffory Rush in "The King's Speech." I thought he'd win it, until I saw Christian Bale as Mark Walberg's brother in "The Fighter." He is a knockout. And Melissa Leo as his tough talking mom will probably take home the supporting acting trophies.
I'll give "Inception" best visual effects. I know it will win, I dreamed it.
Finally, "Toy Story 3" from Pixar in Emeryville, like ABC7, is part of our Walt Disney family. It is nominated for best picture and will win best animated feature.
You'll be waiting to see what they wear and to see who The Academy has picked for top honors in the annual ceremonies. Will you agree with them?
It's a crop that definitely deserves a full bucket. The Oscar show will have faster pace this year. For one thing, they're going to eliminate film tributes.
I'll be curious to see co-hosts James Franco of Palo Alto and Anne Hathaway of Brooklyn. We'll have a live report from the Academy of Friends party Sunday night at 11 p.m.
There are six Oscar categories on the ABC7's Futures Market, which projects the winners through the power of collective thinking.
Here's the schedule for Sunday:
2 p.m. - On the Red Carpet at the Oscars
4 p.m. - Oscars Red Carpet Live
5:30 p.m. - 83rd Annual Academy Awards
8:30 p.m. - More from On the Red Carpet at the Oscars
11 p.m. - ABC7 News
11: 30 p.m. - Jimmy Kimmel Live: After the Academy Awards
