2013 was without question one of the worst years for animated film in recent memory, and as such, it was pretty surprising to see that Pixar's good-but-not-great Monsters University was snubbed for a nomination, while something as inoffensively bland as The Croods somehow made the cut. Regardless, the smart money is on Disney's Frozen to scoop Best Animated Film this year, due to a combination of its high critical acclaim, insane box office, and immensely popular songs (one of which, Let It Go, is almost certain to snag the Best Original Song Oscar). The nominee to root for is The Wind Rises, the latest effort from renowned Japanese animators Studio Ghibli, and reportedly the final film from legendary filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki. Critically speaking, the film is pretty much level-pegging with Frozen, though the general industry respect for Miyazaki just might be enough to push his film over the edge. Don't expect a win, but don't count these guys out either.
Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes).
General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.
