The Main Event - Oscar Winner Predictions

Best Picture

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Pro: After handing out a ridiculous 13 noms, the Academy proved that they dig Benjamin Button. And really, isn't this the ultimate Oscar Darling Film?
Con: The film never delivered like many (ME) thought. Also, it's playing the always-a-nominee, but never-a-winner role with the precursors. Will the Oscars be any different?

Frost/Nixon
Pro: Such an Academy friendly film. Big, showy performances, a big-name director, it's boring, middle-brow. It all adds up.
Con: I tend to always forget this film out of the five nominated. And once I remember the this fifth nominee, I roll my eyes and get out The Dark Knight DVD. The film just lacks the creativity, and excitement of the other nominees.

Milk
Pro: It's a biopic with a strong script and leading performance. Maybe the best reviewed film of the bunch (yes, some critics aren't going ass-over-elbow for Slumdog, believe it or not). Everyone is pretty impressed with the overall package.
Con: It could be too cool or relevant for the Academy. Plus, the buzz may be building too late.

The Reader
Pro: Harvey Weinstein is starting to work his magic, I guess. At least that's what Entertainment Weekly is thinking. The truth is, slowly The Reader is catapulting into the third most likely scenario. I can almost see this upset happening and not automatically start thinking I'm dreaming/hallucinating.
Con: First, it just might not be good enough. The reviews aren't stunning. Plus, most of America still doesn't know about The Reader. Plain and simple, the film is yet to gain enough steam. And, um, the show is less than a week away.

Slumdog Millionaire
Pro: The media and many people love the damn film (the ones who aren't trying to tear down the film that is clearly the best by joining in on nauseating backlash). The reviews are great and the cast and director are so endearing. The cuteness will pay off, Dev and Freida. Also, the film has kicked arse in the precursors.
Con: Little is against Slumdog at this point. The backlash is not strong enough to take it down (I don't think...) The film may be too foreign for the Academy, which, I know, sounds odd.

Winner: Slumdog Millionaire

But, be aware, a Milk upset it very likely. Wait, then it's not an upset, is it? I'm just adding this so that in the end, everyone will be like, "Mark called this all along..." Yeah, but Slumdog will win. And Danny Boyle will also take home the prize for Best Director.