Hey Oscar! Don't Forget!

While I'm slowly but surely catching up on 2008 films that weren't released in my neck of the woods till 2009, I still have yet to see "Slumdog Millionaire", "The Wrestler", and "Revolutionary Road" to name a few, but since the Oscar nominations are being announced on Thursday, I figured I'd name a few films and performances that will probably (but hopefully not) be overlooked by the Academy.

For your Consideration
"In Bruges" (Best Picture, Best Actor: Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleason, Best Supporting Actor: Ralph Feinnes, Best Screenplay) Few films this year have reached the humour, unpredictability, and redemption as this film. Although Farrell's Golden Globe win might've reminded viewers of this film, I fear it will be overlooked in most of the major categories.

"Frozen River" (Best Actress: Melissa Leo, Best Supporting Actress: Misty Upham) Although Leo has been getting some recognition from the indie crowd, her Oscar chances seem rather slim. She might be overlooked for a more prominent performer like Meryl Streep. As for Leo's co-star Upham, she was every bit as heartbreaking as a woman who is forced to smuggle immigrants across the boarder to support her child who was taken from her. Cross your fingers for these women.

"Edge of Heaven" (Best Picture) A long shot, although a winner at Cannes in 2007, this film will probably pass many people by. The best bet is it's multiple storylines might remind people of Oscar winners "Crash" or "Babel".

"Lakeview Terrace" (Best Actor: Samuel L. Jackson) Many critics cited this film as a predictable thriller that didn't deal with its subject matter as honestly as it should have. What they seemed to have missed was that Samuel L. Jackson gave perhaps his best performance in a long time as a crazed racist cop. Jackson seems to be the kind of actor who isn't taken very seriously anymore, but his performance in this film is taken to an edge I have not seen him do in a long time.

"Happy Go-Lucky" (Best Actress Sally Hawkins, Best Supporting Actor Eddie Marsan) It's been a strong year of actresses. I would say if Hawkins, Melissa Leo, and Anne Hathaway all were nominated I would demand a three way tie. Hawkins probably has the best chance to be nominated although it's still rather up in the air if she will or not. Marsan is a bit of a dark horse although there has been some talk, here's hoping for both of them.

"Rachel Getting Married" (Best Supporting Actress: Rosemari DeWitt, Best Supporting Actor: Bill Irwin) I'm leaving Anne Hathaway off this list since she seems to be a shoe-in already and if she isn't then consider her on the list. DeWitt was every bit as strong as the title character, and Irwin is a piece of understated beauty as the father who's just trying to be the peacemaker.

"My Winnipeg" (Best Picture, Best Documentary?????, Best Director) Probably the longest shot on this list as Academy members usually want to award films that can be easily categorized. But what exactly would "My Winnipeg" be put under. Suffice it to say it is one of the most creative achievements of the year and that Canadian mad genius known as Guy Maddin should be recognized.