12 Incredible 2013 Performances That Definitely Won't Win An Oscar

By Paul Sorrells /

1. James Franco (Spring Breakers)

Finally, the most impressive performance of the year with no chance at an Oscar because of its over the top subject matter, is James Franco as the completely bonkers drug dealer Alien in Harmony Korine's Spring Breakers. Franco holds nothing back in his performance, going above and beyond what most actors would agree to doing in both physical and psychological terms. Despite having a considerable amount of online support and a few critic wins under his belt so far, Franco has no real shot at an Oscar. Considering most of the Academy voters will have absolutely no idea what to make of Spring Breakers, Franco's excellent performance will fall on deaf eyes and ears. Although it's not clear how well Spring Breakers will fare over time, if it does end up being some kind of cult classic, Franco's performance will be a big reason why. It's an audacious, brilliant performance that elevates the rest of the film and provides it with it's most quotable and memorable moments. Without Franco, Spring Breakers would not have been as well-received as it was, and that is one of the marks of a great performance. Which great performances of 2013 do you think won't win an Oscar this year? Share your thoughts in the comments thread below.