As we get closer to Sunday’s festivities, it’s time to take a look at the Best Supporting Actor race. Before getting into the specifics, let me say that I will be shocked if my pick doesn’t win. This is because he’s been sweeping all the top awards leading up to the Academy Awards.
*Matt Damon – Invictus *Woody Harrelson – The Messenger *Christopher Plummer – The Last Station *Stanley Tucci – The Lovely Bones *Christoph Waltz – Inglourious Basterds
As I’ve said in my two previous Oscar features, I have not seen all of the nominee’s pictures. The only film I’ve seen of these five is Inglourious Basterds. Waltz has this award in the bag, so I suppose it’s okay I haven’t seen the rest.
Damon pulled off a great South African accent, but I don’t think his film had legs; it just faded out as quickly as it came in. I’ve read The Lovely Bones, so although I haven’t seen the film, I know the character Tucci is playing. I wonder if he would have had a better shot in this category if the movie would have been better received. After decades in Hollywood, Plummer is receiving his first nomination. I am curious whether voters will take that into consideration.
I think the dark horse in this race is Harrelson. If anyone could upset Waltz, I think it might be him. Harrelson has put in some great performances over the years, but this movie may have just been too small to get proper recognition.
Waltz was just crazy good in ‘Basterds.’ When I first saw his movie, I wasn’t sure that I liked or even truly understood parts of the film. Waltz’s performance stood out even with my indecision about the rest of the production. He has been a fan and critic favorite since ‘Basterds’ was released.
My Pick: Christoph Waltz
Carrie's Calling 
As you said, Waltz has it in the bag. A truly terrific performance in 4 languages! Colonel Landa is one of the most memorable villain of the past few years.