Rough day personally, so apologies in advance if the comedy is sucked out of today’s post.

Here are the nominees for Best Actor in a Leading Role…

• Bradley Cooper in Silver Linings Playbook
• Daniel Day-Lewis in Lincoln
• Hugh Jackman in Les Miserables
• Joaquin Phoenix in the Master
• Denzel Washington in Flight

Who Should Win: In a weaker year, 4 out of these 5 performances would be locks to win.  But this year, I have to give Day-Lewis his due.  I’ve always respected his method more than I loved his work (Gangs of New York the exception), but seeing him as the polar opposite of one of his trademark psychopaths (brilliant career move as well) has me respecting AND loving his work again.

Who I’m Cheering For: Denzel’s performance was great, but I really do have a little more love for Day-Lewis this year.

Who Will Win: This is probably the biggest Oscar lock since Titanic.  Have to give Daniel Day his due this go round.

Tomorrow we’ll quickly go through the rest of the awards…