Best Supporting Actress
Penelope Cruz, Vicky Cristina Barcelona
Viola Davis, Doubt
Taraji P. Henson, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Marisa Tomei, The Wrestler
Kate Winslet, The Reader
Another very solid list. Cruz should get a nod as a highly volatile but oh-so-sensuous ex-wife. Davis and Henson should both get recognition for playing two very different kind of mothers, but who both care deeply for their sons. Winslet will probably get a second nomination this year as a German woman whose deep, dark past catches up to her. That leaves the fifth spot open -- which will most likely go to Tomei as a stripper with a heart of gold.
Also for your consideration: Amy Adams might show up on the list for her performance as a young nun caught in the middle in Doubt. As could Rosemarie DeWitt, for her turn as THE Rachel in Rachel Getting Married, who just wants to have one day without worrying about her crazy sister.
KEEP READING: Best Director ...