The Oscars Are Here: Predictions and Picks from The Associated Press
The Oscars are just around the corner, and the excitement is palpable. The Associated Press’ film writers, Bahr and Coyle, have shared their predictions for all 23 categories ahead of Sunday’s ceremony. Now, it’s your turn to weigh in! Cast your votes and see how your picks stack up against theirs. The polls close just before the show begins at 7 p.m. Eastern, so don’t wait too long to make your voice heard. Stay tuned for live updates on their predictions—and yours—as the winners are announced on The AP’s Oscars live blog. Let the countdown begin!
Major Categories: Best Picture and Acting Races
When it comes to Best Picture, both Bahr and Coyle are placing their bets on different films. Bahr predicts Conclave will take home the top prize, while Coyle is rooting for Anora. The acting categories, however, show some consensus. Both agree that Demi Moore will win Best Actress for her role in The Substance. The Best Actor category, on the other hand, sees a split: Bahr believes Adrien Brody will reign supreme for The Brutalist, while Coyle thinks Timothée Chalamet will steal the show in A Complete Unknown.
In the supporting categories, there’s more agreement. Both Bahr and Coyle are backing Zoe Saldaña for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in Emilia Pérez, and they’re equally confident that Kieran Culkin will win Best Supporting Actor for A Real Pain. These categories could be some of the most predictable of the night, thanks to these standout performances.
Behind the Camera: Directing and Writing Races
The directing category also sees some divergence in predictions. Bahr believes Sean Baker will take the Best Director award for Anora, while Coyle thinks the honor will go to—well, Sean Baker again for the same film. Yes, you read that right! Both writers agree that Baker’s work on Anora is Oscar-worthy.
When it comes to writing, the Original Screenplay category has Bahr and Coyle split again. Bahr predicts a win for No Other Land, while Coyle thinks Porcelain War will take the prize. For Adapted Screenplay, both are aligned, predicting that Peter Straughan’s work on Conclave will win. This category could be one of the most competitive of the night, with stellar scripts vying for the top spot.
Technical Categories: Music, Sound, and More
The technical categories are always a highlight of the Oscars, and this year is no exception. For Original Score, Bahr is betting on The Wild Robot by Kris Bowers, while Coyle believes The Brutalist by Daniel Blumberg will take the prize. The Original Song category sees both writers in agreement, with El Mal from Emilia Pérez—composed by Clément Ducol, Camille, and Jacques Audiard—predicted to win.
In the sound categories, Dune: Part Two is the clear favorite for both Sound and Production Design. Bahr and Coyle are united in their prediction that the film’s sound team, including Gareth John and Richard King, will take home the award for Best Sound. Meanwhile, The Brutalist is the top choice for Best Production Design, with Judy Becker and Patricia Cuccia leading the charge.
Costume Design, Makeup, and Visual Effects
Costume Design is another category where both writers are on the same page. Bahr and Coyle agree that Wicked, designed by Paul Tazewell, will win the award for Best Costume Design. However, when it comes to Makeup and Hairstyling, they diverge: Bahr thinks Wicked will take the prize, while Coyle believes The Substance will win for its incredible transformations.
Visual Effects are always a showcase of cinematic magic, and this year is no exception. Bahr predicts Wicked will win for its dazzling effects, while Coyle thinks Dune: Part Two will reign supreme. Both films have pushed the boundaries of visual storytelling, making this category one of the most anticipated.
Short Films and Conclusion
The short film categories are often some of the most surprising of the night. For Best Animated Short, Bahr is rooting for Yuck!, while Coyle thinks Wander to Wander will take the prize. In the Live Action Short category, both writers agree on A Lien as the likely winner. These smaller films may not get as much attention as the bigger categories, but they often leave a lasting impression on viewers.
As the Oscars approach, the anticipation is building. Will Bahr and Coyle’s predictions come true, or will there be some surprise upsets? Make sure to cast your votes and tune in to The AP’s live blog for real-time updates and expert analysis. Whether you’re a film buff or just a casual viewer, this year’s Oscars promise to be unforgettable. Let the countdown to the big night begin!
