Oscars 2018: 10 Best Actor Candidates You Need To Know

Many cinephiles would be shocked to learn that Oldman isn't an Academy mainstay despite several metamorphic performances. Though Oldman's transformed himself in a number of movies throughout his career, his commanding presence as the infamous Winston Churchill is the pundits' pick for a shoo-in nomination.

There's an infamous quote attributed to Churchill Gary Oldman can take to heart: "never, never, never give up." Oldman can only lay claim to a single nod for Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy even though his films date back to the eighties. Often cited as an influence by countless other actors, Oldman bounces between popular genre flicks and arthouse movies without trepidation. That's exactly why he's the perfect artist to replicate the fearless Winston Churchill.

The heir of Churchill approves of Oldman's performance in the highly commended Darkest Hour. Randolph Spencer-Churchill believes Oldman epitomizes his grandfather to a tee. What's more, Churchill scholars endorse Oldman's energetic portrayal. Such approval should catapult Oldman to the front of the Best Actor line-up.

Oldman rises above the other hopefuls in a more telling way. He's already been deemed the preeminent nominee by The Guardian, The Independent, and Vanity Fair. No other actor heads into the race with such unwavering confidence in their corner. As the movie fills the screens of more festivals, the certainty should be as unshakable as Churchill himself.

After displaying tenacity time and time again, Gary Oldman can rest easy knowing he's the validated leader.