In times of sexual harassment allegations and louder political voices in show business, the 90th edition of the Academy Awards has all the makings of an eventful extravaganza. 

With an eclectic list of nominees, ranging form Call Me By Your Name to Get Out, the final winners’ list also promises to feature some surprises and some obvious frontrunners. Here’s who we think is going tot take home the golden beauty in the major categories. 

Best Picture: Guillermo del Toro’s yesteryear fantasy tale Shape of Water, about two outsiders falling in love, appears to be the favourite for the biggest prize. It has already grabbed two major Golden Globes (Director and Score), and three of them at the BAFTAs (Director, Production Design, Music). Who’d argue against the teacher’s pet? Maybe Three Billboards, which was already nabbed a few accolades this award season, and is also the bookies’ pick.  

Best Director: Everyone seems to have the same opinion about the film’s chances of taking home the top two honours on the night. Guillermo del Toro has been hailed by critics for his latest film as ‘a respected and beloved figure who has managed to artfully mix genre and commercial elements with his own personal artistic imprint.’ A loyal would blow Christopher Nolan’s trumpet for Dunkik, but that might not be enough to defeat del Toro.

Best Actress: All of her fellow nominees, including Meryl Streep, Saoirse Ronan and Margot Robbie, might not even flinch while conceding the trophy to Frances McDormand. You’d know why if you’ve seen Three Billboards. In case you haven’t, what the hell are you doing!

Best Actor: One of the least interesting categories this year, there would hardly be any competition for Gary Oldman and his titular Winston Churchill act this year.  Even the bookmakers say ‘call your cousins and put a thousand pounds on him and buy them a bottle of champers.’ 

Best Supporting Actress: The biggest chances of I, Tonya’s glory at this year’s Oscars lie with Allison Janney’s nomination. It could be the first Academy Award for the versatile actress who is on the brink of 60. Well-deserved?

Best Supporting Actor: We couldn’t be happier if our favourite film among this year’s nominees, Three Billboards could collect as many trophies as possible. Another clear-cut winner from the movie looks like Sam Rockwell. There might be stiff competition from Willem Dafoe and Chris Plummer, but the force seems to be with Rockwell ahead of the gala.

Do you agree with our predictions? Let us know in the comments section below.