Oscar debate could get loud; contest could be close

Surprises? A pleasant, mild surprise that Mexico's Demian Bichir scored a nomination for "A Better Life," and that New Jersey's JC Chandor was nominated for his original "Margin Call" screenplay. Another mild surprise - Nick Nolte getting a supporting actor nomination for the underrated "Warrior."

I was slightly surprised to see the Academy make room for Gary Oldman in "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy" - his stoic, subtle performance is not the kind usually rewarded by Oscar voters. "TTSS" was also nominated in the adapted screenplay category.

Two relatively obscure animated movies - "A Cat in Paris" (from France) and "Chico and Rita" (from Spain) - were nominated for best animated picture, along with "Rango," Puss in Boots" and "Kung Fu Panda 2." Tough year for Pixar and "Cars 2."

Snubs? I guess I'm the only one who thought Michael Shannon deserved notice for "Take Shelter." Jessica Chastain was about a million times better in "Take Shelter" than she was in "The Help," where she earned her nomination. Albert Brooks appeared to cede supporting actor space to Von Sydow, and "The Help" got several nominations, but none for director Tate Taylor.

Michael Fassbender had a great year, but came away empty, and his co-star in "Jane Eyre," Mia Wasikowska, was neglected.