4. Steve Coogan - Philomena
The Film: Stephen Frears' latest examines an elderly woman (Judi Dench) who is searching for her adult son (Steve Coogan) that was taken away from her decades ago when she was made to live in a convent.
Why He Could Win: This could be a major step up for Coogan, who in recent years has transformed himself from an eminently popular British TV comedian into an international movie star, having performed in a string of American comedies, and essentially making himself a household name across the pond as well as in Blighty. If that's not enough to give Coogan a chance at an Oscar next year, then the fact that he helped write the script gives him dual odds at some sort of a nomination.
Other Talent: Oscar winner Judi Dench, Oscar-nominee Stephen Frears (director).