Oscars 2021: Final Predictions In All 23 Categories
14. Best Score
Soul is unstoppable in this race and nothing can stand in its way. With forgettable soundtracks like Da 5 Bloods or even Minari, which is a big contender this year but has a score that doesn't leave much of an impression, it's not too surprising that the film with jazz music at its core is going to pick up this award.
News of the World's score isn't terrible but it is as traditionally Western as you could possibly imagine. The only real threat to Soul comes from the 30s inspired soundtrack for Mank. Ironically, both soundtracks come from the composing duo of Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross (with Soul having the additional composer of Jon Batiste) which just shows off how impressive their year has been (they also won an Emmy six months ago for composing Watchmen).
Soul is the only nominee where the music is integral to the plot and that will carry it through.
What Should Win: Soul
What Will Win: Soul