Hollywood is anxious to find out if “CODA,” “The Power of the Dog” or “Belfast” will be named the year's best film at the Oscars on Sunday — and whether audiences will actually tune in to see it happen.
Moody Western “The Power of the Dog” had looked set to ride off into the sunset with Tinseltown's top prize, handing Netflix its much-coveted first best picture, but the Academy Awards race has been flung wide open in the past few weeks.
“CODA” — an uplifting drama about an eccentric deaf family — has surged in popularity, and industry insiders say Kenneth Branagh's childhood-inspired “Belfast” cannot be ruled out.
Sci-fi epic “Dune” is expected to win the most Oscars overall due to its dominance in technical categories, from cinematography to visual effects.
The Oscars ceremony returns this year to its traditional venue at Hollywood's Dolby Theatre, after pandemic protocols shifted last year's ceremony to a downtown Los Angeles train station.
Television network ABC will hope for a return to the higher ratings of years past as well.
The extra time will be allocated to longer musical performances and comedy skits from hosts Amy Schumer, Wanda Sykes and Regina Hall.
Beyonce will perform her nominated track from “King Richard,” lending the gala much-needed stardust, while the latest 007 theme will be performed by fellow nominee Billie Eilish.
