Oscars 2021: Final Predictions In All 23 Categories
13. Best Production Design
Production design definitely seems like the most probable category where nominations leader Mank will see some love. With some flashy entries from Tenet's inversion chambers to News of the World's Western expanse, it is the grandiose audacity of Mank's production design that crushes the competition.
It is surprising to see Ma Rainey's Black Bottom here when the majority of that film takes place in a blandly designed locker room. The Father on the other hand is a welcome addition as its subtle set changes adds to the film's level of building anxiety.
The design branch of the Academy may give The Father's understated work enough of a boost to an upset, but it is unlikely. Instead, this will be Mank's only Oscar for its meticulously detailed sets and ability to capture the era in which the film is based and who can argue with that? For a film that is so impressive from a craft point of view, it is nice that Mank won't be going home empty handed.
What Should Win: Mank
What Will Win: Mank