4. Lincoln Beats Argo For Best Picture
Argo has won almost everything to date. Ive already written an article about why the industry loves the film. However, there is still some potential vulnerability. Ben Afflecks omission for Best Director is the most glaring evidence for lack of support. However, both Lincoln and Life of Pi have more nominations than Argo. Couple that with strong actors support for Silver Linings Playbook (with nominations in all four acting categories). This could make for a very interesting Best Picture finish. There is also the notion that the film awarded the top prize should have some hefty message, which Argo doesnt really have. Despite the potential for an upset, I still feel Argo will win Best Picture. But, I wouldnt be surprised in the least if Spielbergs Lincoln takes the Academy Award. Out of all the films he has made, only one Spielberg movie has the Best Picture Oscar attached to its name - Schindlers List. Not E.T., Raiders of the Lost Ark, Saving Private Ryan, Jurassic Park, or any of his other amazing achievements. So in a sense, Spielberg is also overdue for a Best Picture winner. Lincoln is his most stripped down, yet mature film to date. There are no fancy special effects or memorable shots or camera movements. The visuals are strong but never over the top or epic. It is a highly effective character study that makes an icon human relatable with flaws and imperfections. The film is rather like Lincoln himself, simple but with an extraordinarily effective execution and methodology.