Best Picture Oscar Nomination Predictions

By Justine Ashley Costanza | November 26 2012 3:09 PM

Photo: Columbia

'Zero Dark Thirty'

"Zero Dark Thirty," starring Chris Pratt and Jessica Chastain, chronicles the 10-year hunt for Osama bin Laden. From directer Kathryn Bigelow and screenwriter Mark Boal, the award-winning team behind "The Hurt Locker," the political drama has been dubbed "the most controversial film of the year" by Entertainment Weekly. The barrage of attention surrounding the film could help it stand out among the sea of Oscar hopefuls. "Zero Dark Thirty" hits theaters on Dec. 17.

Photo: Warner Brothers

Hathaway In 'Les Misérables'

Based on the world's longest-running musical, Tom Hooper-directed "Les Misérables" is one of the most anticipated films of the year. According to the Hollywood Reporter, Universal Pictures has scheduled multiple screenings of the film prior to its Christmas day release to ensure viewing by Oscar voters and other industry professionals well after voting begins on Dec. 17. Starring Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe and Anne Hathaway, the epic tear-jerker is expected to earn spot in the best picture race. "Les Misérables" will hit theaters on Dec 25.

Photo: Warner Brothers

Affleck In 'Argo'

Last month, Ben Affleck's third directorial outing proved to be a critical and audience favorite. Based on the incredible true story surrounding the rescue of six hostages from Iran in 1979, the moving political thriller is poised for Oscar glory. After the film tested positively with audiences, Warner Brothers wisely pushed the films release date from September to October in order to capitalize on awards season buzz. The move is expected to pay off come February. "Argo" is now in theaters.

Photo: Disney

Day-Lewis In 'Lincoln'

Chronicling President Abraham Lincoln's final months in office, Steven Spielberg's "Lincoln" has become one of the most acclaimed films of the year. With riveting performances from Daniel Day-Lewis and Tommy Lee Jones, the historical drama is expected to earn various Oscar nods, including one for the main award of the night. "Lincoln" is now in theaters.

Photo: Weinstein Company

Lawrence And Cooper In 'Silver Linings Playbook'

The touching David O. Russell comedy stars Bradley Cooper as a bipolar teacher who moves in with his parents (Jacki Weaver and Robert De Niro) after he is released from a mental health facility. Matters become complicated when he meets a depressed young widow (Jennifer Lawrence). Cooper, De Niro and Lawrence have each generated considerable awards season buzz for their performances. The film, which has been hailed by critics, marks Russell's triumphant return to directing. "Silver Linings Playbook" is now in theaters.

With the 85th annual Academy Awards fast approaching, a few films have emerged as Best Picture front-runners.