State of the Race: Best Supporting Actress

A couple of weeks ago, this was a one woman show: Mo'Nique's. I still think she is the frontrunner, and I definitely think she is a lock for a nomination. But now, a slew of women are starting to put the heat on her, making this a really interesting category to watch. Julianne Moore is getting raves for her role in A Single Man with Colin Firth, and after missing out so many times, this could be the year they choose to bypass the newcomer and reward an Oscar veteran. Early word about Nine says that its going to be a good one, and two names in the supporting category are popping up: Penelope Cruz and Judi Dench. They have both won Oscars and are really respected in the industry, look for their names. Another duel possibility comes from the team of Rachel Weisz and Susan Sarandon in The Lovely Bones. Again, two Oscar winners playing in one of the biggest contenders of the year. This must be the year of two, becasue the Up in the Air duo are also in contention, but now word is that Vera Farmiga is going lead, which paves the way for newcomer Anna Kendrick. Some earlier contenders such as Marion Cotillard from Public Enemies, and Melanie Laurent for Inglourious Basterds are definitely in contention. Other contenders include: Rosamund Pike and Emma Thompson "An Education", Nicole Kidman and Kate Hudson "Nine", Sigourney Weaver "Avatar", Drew Barrymore "Everybody's Fine", and Mariah Carey "Precious". Of course the biggest question mark is Meryl Streep. If she goes supporting, there will be a three way blood bath for the crowm

Current Predictions:

Mo'Nique "Precious" (Winner)

Susan Sarandon "The Lovely Bones"

Penelope Cruz "Nine"

Judi Dench "Nine"

Julianne Moore "A Single Man"