1) Penelope Cruz - Vicky, Christina, Barcelona.She basically walks off with the picture. The woman is proving to be a great actress, and Woody Allen has had a stellar track record with his supporting actresses. She is a lock at this point.
(previous position 2)
2) Viola Davis - DoubtPlaying a mother of an abused child SCREAMS attention. This woman has made enough films with enough well respected and likeable Academy members and she is brilliant in this. LOCK.
(previous position 1)Now this is where things get tricky. There are 5 remaining women fighting it out for 3 spots. It could be any ones game at this point.
3) Marisa Tomei – The WrestlerOnce again her name is up. The role is small and quiet, but she is apparently extremely good. However well know animosity with Rourke could taint her as well..
(previous position 8, 9, NEW)
4) Taraji P. Henson - The Curious Case of Benjamin ButtonShe has not done well with critics gongs, but her character is well loved. That can go a long way. She also looks like the main shot at an acting nomination.
(previous position 3)
5) Kate Winslet - The ReaderWill this go lead? Lets hope they keep her in supporting though. I have heard that the performances in the film are good, but not great. Category confusion can always hurt her.
(previous position 4, 10)
6) Rosemary DeWitt – Rachel Getting MarriedMany say she is fantastic in the title role, but can she beat out her better known co stars for a nod. This category is the kindest to new stars. She has to last out the year though.
(previous position 7, 8, NEW)
7)Amy Adams - DoubtShe will have to battle it out with Viola, but her star is rising, and she has a much larger role in the film than Viola. She star just keeps on rising, and they could let her in again this year.
(previous position 5, 9)