Oscar picks: Ami Dudley

Two Sundays ago, music lovers ran home to catch the Grammys. This upcoming Sunday, on February 24th, movie fans will have their turn at cheering and booing during the Academy Awards, better known as the Oscars.  With films like “Beast of the Southern Wild”, “Prometheus”, and “Argo”, 2012 produced an appealing assortment of nominees. As a movie buff with an eclectic taste in films, I ceased the opportunity to share seven of my Oscar picks.

Best Picture –“Beast of the Southern Wild”

Rivaling films like “Argo”, “Lincoln” and “Amour”, this film’s simultaneous capture of imagination and reality elevates it far above its opponents.

Leading Actor –Hugh Jackman

Making the drastic transition from Wolverine, an X-men comic hero, to the singing, crying, and French accented Jean Valjean in Les Miserable, Hugh Jackman has earned this category nom.

Directing –Steven Spielberg

Only Steven Spielberg can take and place us in the 19th century –like he does in “Lincoln” –without us ever questioning the authenticity.

Leading Actress –Quvenzhane Wallis

At just nine years old, Quvenzhane is the youngest actress ever to receive an Oscar nom with her role in “Beast of the Southern Wild”. Any kid tough enough to rival the veterans deserves this win.

Visual Effects –“Life of Pi”

Screensaver-worthy, the nature and wildlife visuals in this film are none other than breathtaking.

Original Screenplay –“Moonrise Kingdom”

Writers Wes Anderson and Roman Coppla’s ability to capture and express the intricate yet simplistic minds of the adolescent characters Sam and Suzy is both praiseworthy and meritorious.  

Animated feature Film –“Paranorman”

Besides being a totally awesome film, the use of the 3-D stop motion technique definitely distinguishes this animation from its rivaling computer-animated features.

There are 18 other categories including foreign language film, short film, and cinematography. You can visit the Oscar’s website and make your pick!