Jamie Foxx “Ray”
For him: A career-making performance in a film that he carried on his shoulders; the best buzz of the group.
Against him: In terms of industry credibility, Foxx is the new kid on the block; older voters may decide to make him wait.
Odds: Even
Leonardo DiCaprio “The Aviator”
For him: After snubs for Titanic and Gangs of New York, the third time could be the charm.
Against him: That pesky Jamie Foxx.
Odds: 3:1
Johnny Depp “Finding Neverland”
For him: A more respectable film choice for the people who wanted to vote for his performance in last year’s Pirates of the Caribbean; Depp is always superb.
Against him: This is not his year.
Odds: 4:1
Don Cheadle “Hotel Rwanda”
For him: Another standout performance from a perennially overlooked actor; nominated despite his movie missing out on the big awards.
Against him: Voters know this will not be Cheadle’s last nomination; he’ll be coronated another time.
Odds: 10:1
Clint Eastwood “Million Dollar Baby”
For him: Hollywood loves their actor/directors.
Against him: Most votes for Clint will go for direction, taking up an acting slot that probably should’ve gone to Jim Carrey or Paul Giamatti.
Odds: 15:1
From:
About me: “'But I don’t want to go among mad people,' Alice remarked. 'Oh, you can’t help that,' said the Cat. 'We’re all mad here. I’m mad. You’re mad.' 'How do you know I’m mad?' said Alice. 'You must be,” said the Cat, 'or you wouldn’t have come here.'” -Lewis Carroll