It seems that, just like the marketing of Christmas, every year the Academy Award rumblings begin earlier and earlier. Thanks to the Hollywood, Venice and Toronto Film Festivals, there are already perceived frontrunners in several categories (Ben Affleck, Director...Brad Pitt & Cate Blanchett, acting...EASTERN PROMISES, Motion Picture). As you know from my previous blogs, I think Viggo Mortensen and Jodie Foster should certainly be recognized for their performances. RENDITION with Streep, Gyllenhall and Witherspoon is expected to be a big deal. And let's not forget Angelina Jolie's turn as Mariane Pearl in A MIGHTY HEART. I just attended a screening of Ben's directorial debut, GONE BABY GONE, starring his brother Casey Affleck and I admit I was extremely surprised by what an entertaining, well acted & paced thriller it was. I wouldn't be a bit surprised if Casey winds up with two nominations for his acting work...for this as well as THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES BY THE COWARD ROBERT FORD. I've interviewed him several times now and I'm always impressed by what a soft-spoken, thoughtful young man he is. After so many supporting roles and a public image in the shadow of his older brother, this could certainly be "his" year.

Depending on how the critics receive ELIZABETH: THE GOLDEN AGE, perennial favourite Cate Blanchett could also find herself with a double nomination (along with I'M NOT THERE). Everybody's most-loved eco-star Leonardo DiCaprio might find himself honoured in the Best Documentary category for THE ELEVENTH HOUR. The buzz is good on George Clooney's MICHAEL CLAYTON. And the hype for Mark Wahlberg's crime drama WE OWN THE NIGHT is strangely reminiscent of last year's blockbuster THE DEPARTED.

It was heartening to see Sacha Baron Cohen recognized last year for his comedic talents, often overlooked by panels of stuffy judges. Why is it we expect our Awards show emcees and presenters to be funny, but not the nominees!? I haven't seen the Farrelly brothers' new one THE HEARTBREAK KID yet, but the trailers look hilarious and Ben Stiller has a knack for making me laugh just by looking at him!

My buddy, great improve comic Joel Bryant, has a part in it as Michael the groom. He may be a bit biased, but he says it's a riot so I can't wait to see it. Especially after all the heavy and violent content of the films in theatres right now, it will be good to go and guffaw for ninety minutes!

Come on...we're not wagering any money here. Care to venture some of your early picks for top Oscar contenders??