2. Chris Hemsworth - Rush
The Film: Ron Howard's take on the 1976 Formula One season, specifically the feud between drivers James Hunt and Niki Lauda, centering on Lauda's horrific injury during a race, and his triumphant return to the track.
Why He Could Win: I was lucky enough to see Rush several weeks ago, and though reviews of the film are embargoed, I can probably get away with saying that Chris Hemsworth gives a surprisingly nuanced performance as James Hunt, not only having the look necessary to fill the playboy's shoes, but also nailing the accent and the more complex machinations of his character. Easily his best work to date - not that this really says much in terms of his ambition - Hemsworth could find himself up for an Oscar next year, though the sports-related subject matter will surely be a hurdle that he will have to avoid, and if anyone's going to get nominated from the movie, it would probably be his more esteemed co-star Daniel Bruhl, who plays Lauda.
Other Talent: Oscar-winner Ron Howard (director), Oscar-nominee Peter Morgan (writer).