Thought I would throw my fellow RX'ers a bone or two.
Apparently there is real support within the academy for Michael Clayton. Several sources seem to share the belief it is the real challenger to No Country for Best Picture. While most still believe No Country shall prevail what is interesting is oddsmakers have installed Michael Clayton as basically an afterthought for the top prize with prices in the 30/40-1 range.
Entertainment Weekly today has somewhat further confirmed those sources who have hyped up Michael Clayton in their annual predictions.
They estimate the percentage of votes as follows;
No Country for Old Men 30%
Michael Clayton 25%
There Will Be Blood 20%
Juno 15%
Atonement 10%
Interesting to note last year they had Crash (eventual winner) just 5% behind Brokeback (who at the time was a huge favorite for best pic).
One other value selection I'll share. To go along with this Micheal Clayton support its widely recognized Tilda Swinton is a serious player for Best Supporting Actress. The theory is the academy will want to award MC in one of the major categories and if you do the math this oscar has no true frontrunner and is up for grabs. Everybody except for child actress Ronan has a chance thus the vote will be split and if one group can rally around a nominee it has the best chance.
Again I'll bring up EW's predictions for this category. (this isn't a major source with a great track record but its just some proof I know what I'm talking about!)
Tilda Swinton 28%
Amy Ryan 25%
Cate Blanchett 22%
Ruby Dee 20%
Saoirse Ronan 5%
Again great odds available, at the moment in the 12/20-1 range.
With a slice of luck it could be a great night...