As we approach the nominations for this year's Oscars, the landscape is more dynamic than we've seen in recent years. Initially under the radar, this season's contenders have transformed into a compelling race, marked by standout films such as Wicked, which has captured audiences with its star-studded performances, and A Complete Unknown, a film that has been gaining traction through various festivals. Another noteworthy entry, Conclave, has solidified its place as a frontrunner with impressive critical acclaim. Additionally, with the unexpected rise of the film Emilia Pérez, we witness the ongoing evolution of the Oscars, showcasing a more eclectic and international selection of films.

Gone are the days when the Best Picture winner seemed predetermined. This year, we have a handful of films vying for the top prize, making the outcome uncertain but exhilarating. The nominees in the major categories remain fluid, particularly in supporting roles, where surprises often reign supreme. Here's a glimpse of who we anticipate to see nominated in the eight main categories:

Best Picture

- Anora - The Brutalist - A Complete Unknown - Conclave - Dune: Part Two - Emilia Pérez - A Real Pain - Sing Sing - The Substance - Wicked

The top contenders appear to be Anora, The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, and Emilia Pérez, all of which have received nods from the BAFTAs and recognition from the Directors Guild of America. The inclusion of Wicked, which has redefined box office expectations, and Dune: Part Two, which has found renewed hope after impressive showings at various awards, further emphasizes the diversity of this year's race. The final slot is still uncertain, with potential contenders like Sing Sing and Nickel Boys battling for recognition among a formidable lineup of films.

Best Director

- Jacques Audiard, Emilia Pérez - Sean Baker, Anora - Edward Berger, Conclave - Brady Corbet, The Brutalist - Coralie Fargeat, The Substance

Audiard and Baker are strong contenders with their respective films spotlighted across major awards. Corbet, noted for his nostalgic nod to 1970s cinema, and Berger, who successfully adapted a novel, have also captured attention. As international films gain popularity, it’s plausible that Fargeat, with her Cannes debut, could oust another nominee. Not to be forgotten, RaMell Ross has garnered critical acclaim for Nickel Boys, adding to the competitive atmosphere.

Best Actor

- Adrien Brody, The Brutalist - Timothée Chalamet, A Complete Unknown - Daniel Craig, Queer - Colman Domingo, Sing Sing - Ralph Fiennes, Conclave

In a notably competitive category, Brody, Chalamet, and Fiennes are at the forefront, with Domingo making a significant leap as a leading man. Craig's role could be a double-edged sword, as viewers' reactions to his film vary widely. Competition remains fierce, with Sebastian Stan also a potential dark horse, showcasing his talents across multiple performances.

Best Actress

- Cynthia Erivo, Wicked - Karla Sofía Gascón, Emilia Pérez - Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Hard Truths - Mikey Madison, Anora - Demi Moore, The Substance

With Erivo’s solid footing due to her multifaceted performance in Wicked, and Gascón and Madison emerging as fresh talents, this race has intensified. After a strong Golden Globe showing, Moore’s chances appear brighter as The Substance gains recognition as an awards contender. However, Jean-Baptiste, with her gripping performance in Hard Truths, faces robust competition as the race narrows down.

Best Supporting Actor

- Yura Borisov, Anora - Kieran Culkin, A Real Pain - Edward Norton, A Complete Unknown - Guy Pearce, The Brutalist - Jeremy Strong, The Apprentice

Kieran Culkin has solidified his status, while Borisov, Norton, and Pearce provide strong support in their films. Strong also remains a potential nominee, potentially benefiting from his co-starring role in a prestigious project. Keep an eye out for emerging contenders like Clarence Maclin from Sing Sing, whose performance could shake up predictions.

Best Supporting Actress

- Jamie Lee Curtis, The Last Showgirl - Ariana Grande, Wicked - Felicity Jones, The Brutalist - Isabella Rosselini, Conclave - Zoe Saldaña, Emilia Pérez

This category remains one of the most unpredictable. While Grande and Saldaña appear to have secured their places, Curtis’s latest performance could very well secure her an Oscar nod. Jones and Rosselini's nominations, however, hinge on their respective films’ strength, especially with the unique dynamics at play in performances from A Complete Unknown possibly upending expectations.

Best Original Screenplay

- Sean Baker, Anora - Brady Corbet and Mona Fastvold, The Brutalist - Jesse Eisenberg, A Real Pain - Coralie Fargeat, The Substance - Justin Kuritzkes, Challengers

The screenplay race showcases a blend of traditional narratives and innovative storytelling from global voices. With newer contenders potentially vying for slots at the expense of established works, each film's reception at key awards will likely have a significant impact.

Best Adapted Screenplay

- Jacques Audiard, Emilia Pérez - Joslyn Barnes and RaMell Ross, Nickel Boys - Clint Bentley and Greg Kwedar, Sing Sing - Jay Cocks and James Mangold, A Complete Unknown - Peter Straughan, Conclave

With heavyweights battling it out, the adapted screenplay category promises excitement this year. Depending on the Academy's preferences, we could see shifts in which films secure nominations into the major categories.

As the Oscar nominations loom closer, anticipation continues to build around the varied and vibrant pool of films and performances we’ve witnessed this year. Who will secure their place in Oscar history? Stay tuned for the big reveal!