The Academy Awards: A touchstone for the level of talent in today’s movie-making industry. Sure, we love the red-carpet showdowns, look forward to the charismatic hosts and even put some stock into the primetime commercials. But what truly makes these awards special is the power they have over their recipients’ careers. That’s why we watch the Oscars – in hopes our favorite performers and performances get the recognition they deserve.

However, it’s no secret that certain films, directors, actors, etc. seem to get a lot more or less attention than they should and I think it all comes down to politics. Often we hear of an actor being “snubbed” or a director “finally getting his due,” as if it’s evident the Oscar jury operates more on favoritism than objectivity. Many critics, based on the Academy’s bias, have already cast their ballots on who’s going to win in what category. For the past few years I’ve done the same, and since my record has been 100 percent correct, this year I’m going to be so bold as to predict the winners:

Best Supporting Actress:

It’s between Natalie Portman and Cate Blanchett. Blanchett has been hailed as Katharine Hepburn reincarnated because of her chameleon performance in “The Aviator.” Portman’s portrayal of a heartbroken stripper in “Closer” was equally breathtaking because of her ability to break out of her natural innocence and brilliantly reveal the complexity of her character. Although these contenders are running neck-and-neck, Portman will win – she’s a fresh face, and obviously very promising.

Best Supporting Actor:

Morgan Freeman – It is about time he won an Oscar and he deserves this one. Let’s hope Jamie Foxx doesn’t snag this title, because he belongs in the Best Actor Category.

Best Actress:

This one is tough. I believe Kate Winslet deserves this for “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” but Hilary Swank executed a convincing, personally challenging role in “Million Dollar Baby.” However, Swank already has an Oscar in this category, and Annette Bening (“Being Julia”) has been getting a decent amount of attention. My guess is that it’s between Bening and Swank, but Swank will emerge the winner.

Best Actor:

Jamie Foxx has this one in the bag. Leonardo DiCaprio may be on a lucky streak at the other award shows and Johnny Depp is long overdue for an Oscar, but Foxx made “Ray” come alive, and I predict the Academy will realize that.

Best Director:

Clint Eastwood deserves it but he’s won in this category before. Alexander Payne will most likely pick up Best Adapted Screenplay for “Sideways.” This would be the perfect moment for Martin Scorsese to finally win an Oscar (“The Aviator”) after the Academy has let recognition for greats like “Goodfellas” and “Raging Bull” go by. I predict Scorsese will win.

Best Picture:

“The Aviator” is the obvious choice. It doesn’t deserve it, but it will win. Critics are saying it’s a toss up between “Million Dollar Baby” and “The Aviator,” and “Million Dollar Baby” has the meaningful resonance that defines achievement. However, “The Aviator” is a flashier, pricier, and more pretentious film than its main competitor, and I’m guessing it’ll be the biggest winner of the night.

May the best man win?

Columns reflect the opinion of the author and not necessarily that of the Northern Star staff.