11 Unexpected Actors Who Might Win Oscars In 2019

5. Dakota Johnson - Suspiria

Fifty Shades Darker Dakota Johnson Riddick
Universal

The Role: Susie Bannion, an aspiring dancer who uncovers the sinister secrets of a prestigious dance academy she just started attending.

Why She Might Win: Dario Agento's original 1977 Suspiria is a card-carrying horror classic, respected by both genre enthusiasts and general film buffs alike for its gorgeous style, strong characterisation, and powerful sense of mood.

This far more mainstream reboot from Call Me by Your Name director Luca Guadagnino could be just the vehicle, then, to propel Johnson to awards success. On paper it's an extremely challenging, ripe role for any young actress, and under Guadgnino's expert direction, there's every chance she gives one of the year's most surprisingly impressive and memorable lead performances.

Why It's Unexpected: Johnson is, of course, best known for starring in the Fifty Shades franchise, which is pretty much the furthest thing from awards fare one can imagine. If her serious career started this year, the very same year where she wrapped up her Fifty Shades obligations, it'd be all-too fitting.

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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.