Oscar Watch 2010-Leading Actor

Jeff Bridges in “Crazy Heart”

With a moving take on a fading country star named Bad Blake, this race is Bridges’ to lose. Known for his work as The Dude in The Big Lebowski, Bridges is a fine actor, but his performance here is not quite as good as Clooney’s. His chemistry with the usually wooden Maggie Gyllenhal is impeccable and his singing voice is bounds ahead of what I was expecting. While his acting may be a bit stiff at times, the Oscars love a comeback story, so it’s Bridges for the win this year.

George Clooney in “Up in the Air”

Some critics disparage his performance as “Clooney playing Clooney” which I think is insulting and naïve. This is Clooney’s best work to date. He disappears seamlessly into the role of Ryan Bingham, transforming him from the sad sack he’s made out to be in the Walter Kirn’s novel of the same name into a classy, almost ruthless mogul. In the first half of the movie, Clooney showcases his character’s suavity and swagger, but he blows the audience out of the water when Bingham discovers just how meaningless and short his life really is. In any other year, the prize would be his.

Colin Firth in “A Single Man”

A masterful performance in a widely audience-ignored film, alas, this isn’t Firth’s year (for more, see my review of the film below).

Morgan Freeman in “Invictus”

Congratulations must be extended to Freeman for his masterful portrayal of South African President Nelson Mandela. Sadly for the great actor, the Oscars seem to have fallen out of love with director Clint Eastwood—it was considered a big snub when Invictus was left off of the list of 10 Best Picture Nominees. Freeman should consider that (in addition to the influx of Bridges love) his kiss of death this year.

Jeremy Renner in “The Hurt Locker"

I must be the only one who doesn’t see what the big fuss is about this film and this actor. There is no debating that Renner is a good actor, and the film itself is quite good. To me, there was nothing special about Renner; he seemed almost replaceable. I would have much rather seen Ben Foster take his spot for his far more electric performance in The Messenger or even perhaps Peter Sarsgaard for An Education.

Will Win: Jeff Bridges, Crazy Heart

Should Win: George Clooney, Up in the Air

Should Have Been Nominated: Ben Foster, The Messenger