The Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars, are the most prestigious awards in film. Since its inception in 1929, the awards have been a platform for recognizing excellence in cinema from around the globe. Being the 95th edition of the event, you can guarantee there will be plenty of eyes on the spectacle.

Indeed, an increase in viewership could be experienced at this year’s awards following the debacle of last year’s show. It will go down in history as the one that saw Will Smith slap Chris Rock after making a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith. Rock has since declined to host this year’s edition. Jimmy Kimmel will host it for the third time as a result.

Award Season is Getting Closer & Closer

Naturally, every year around this time, Hollywood buzz begins to fill the air. People across the world start speculating about who will take home the coveted Oscar for Best Picture or Best Actor. This year, Canadians are looking to make their mark on what is arguably the world’s most popular award show.

The nominees for this year’s awards are set to be announced on Tuesday, January 24, 2023. This will have only upped the excitement surrounding the events, with many in Canada hoping to reap the rewards. There are a number of actors and actresses that have had stellar performances that hail from the Great White North. Notwithstanding, there have been a number of excellent films to have stood out that emanate from the Maple Leaf nation, too!

With that said, it is perhaps wise to take a look at who and what could be nominated within each of the top categories.

Best Picture

The Award for Best Picture is one that is always particularly eye-catching. As it stands, there are a handful of contenders that could make the cut. Unfortunately for Canada, though, it would appear there does not seem to be a film from the region likely to be in the nominees on Tuesday. While we have seen a number of exceptional titles, including “Brother” & “Turning Red,” to have been released in 2022, the list of nominations are expected to be dominated by films from elsewhere.

Among the leading candidates for the Oscar for Best Picture, movies include “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” “The Fabelmans,” and “The Banshees of Inisherin.” Others like “Top Gun: Maverick,” and “Tár,” are also likely to be in the running for the converted award.

Indeed, given the financial backing that many of these movies will have had, as well as the quality of the production, it would not be a surprise to see these out-beat their Canadian counterparts.

Best Actor

If the Best Picture movie category is not considered the biggest award of the night, then the Best Actor gong perhaps is. Indeed, it is one of the few moments during the Academy Awards ceremony that continues to generate a hype outside of the movie industry. Almost everyone seems to have an interest in this particular section of the night.

From movie enthusiasts to casual onlookers, the award has also become a popular betting market. Many punters like to use this market as an opportunity to enjoy the event and enhance it further. Indeed, it is hardly a surprise that this is one of the Oscars’ favorite markets to bet on for players, as it is usually up for grabs between some of the most acclaimed actors in the business, and this year should be no different.

Canada may have a winner in this category, as American-born Canadian Brendan Fraser is thought to be among the frontrunners. He put in an incredible performance as the lead actor in “The Whale”; some describing it as a comeback performance for the actor.

Nonetheless, it would not be a surprise if there is an Irish feel to the Best Actor nominations. Colin Farrell (“The Banshees of Inisherin”) and Paul Mescal (“Aftersun”) are thought to be in the running, while British legend Bill Nighly (“Living”) is a contender. Rounding out a top five could be “Elvis” star, Austin Butler, with the American portraying the “King of Rock” Elvis Presley in an awe-inspiring showing.

Best Actress

Notwithstanding, the award for Best Actress is also among the stellar golden statues on offer at the Oscars. Again, the 95th edition of the Academy Awards should not fail to disappoint in regard to the nominations.

When looking at the top five contenders for this prize category, it does not appear that a Canadian actress will be the winner. In fact, the award may not be going to a female from North America, as the two favorites to win are from Australia and Malaysia, respectively.

Cate Blanchett’s performance in the film “Tár” is one that has been widely recognized and praised, as has Michelle Yeoh’s display in “Everything Everywhere All at Once.” Both were nominated at the Screen Actors Guild, the Golden Globes, and the Critics Choice Awards. Many expect them to be nominated at the Oscars.

However, it is also worth looking at three Americans as potential contenders. Viola Davis was also named by the aforementioned awards shows for her role in “The Woman King,” while Danielle Deadwyler’s staring role in “Till” earned her recognition. Michelle Williams might be an outsider, but her showing in “The Fabelmans” – which could win the Best Picture – might be enough to give her the credit she deserves.

What Other Oscars Should Fans Keep An Eye On?

While the three aforementioned categories are, arguably, the main ones, there are many others to keep an eye on. 

Best Supporting Actor is usually a highly coveted award, as is Best Supporting Actress. Additionally, Best Animated Feature Film and Best Original Song are two categories that tend to attract attention. Generally, fans of the Academy Awards should keep their eyes peeled for all of the major Oscars on offer.

Canadian Movie Industry Continues To Move Forward

Regardless of who wins the Academy Awards, one thing is for certain: the Canadian movie industry continues to move forward. This 95th edition of the Oscars could certainly be a watershed moment for many countries, but Canada will particularly be looking at their nominations with pride.

The country’s actors, directors, and producers have been putting in incredible work over the last few years, and this could be their moment to shine. Even if they do not succeed in claiming any golden statuettes, Canada should rest easy knowing that they have contributed some remarkable films to the movie industry, and that is something worth celebrating.