Many of the films on this list have emerged as awards season favourites after premiering at the autumn's film festivals. Carol, however, has been around considerably longer. Todd Haynes' tale of a forbidden lesbian romance, adapted from Patricia Highsmith's 1952 novel The Price of Salt, competed for the Palme d'Or at Cannes, where Rooney Mara tied for Best Actress. She stars as a shopgirl who is immediately entranced with Cate Blanchett's mysterious married woman. Carol is perhaps the most critically acclaimed film of 2015 and has won raves particularly for its two terrific central performances. Blanchett will slot into the crowded Best Actress picture at the Oscars, with the Weinsteins campaigning for Mara to fit into the Supporting Actress category. This could net Carol two acting awards and it's almost guaranteed to pick up some more nods for its gorgeous costumes and 1950s environs. It's not only guaranteed a Best Picture nomination, but it's going to be one of the frontrunners on Oscar night.
Freelance film journalist and fan of professional wrestling. Usually found in a darkened screening room looking for an aisle seat and telling people to put away their mobile phones. Also known to do a bit of stand-up comedy, so I'm used to the occasional heckle.
