Leonard Dicaprio: A Brief Film Analysis

The big day is just around the corner - and while the Academy Awards are supposed to feel more like the Super Bowl of acting than the Pro Bowl, this year feels somewhat strained. It must be my imagination, right?

Chris Rock will perform his acting duties, though it remains to be seen whether or not he'll poke fun at those that opted not to attend the party. And, while some notable faces will be absent, like Will Smith (who wasn't nominated for his leading role in Concussion), you had best believe Leonard DiCaprio will be in the house - possibly wearing his brown pants.

The Revenant (one of the favorites to win Best Picture) is a complete work of art and has been the talk of the Oscar season, but no one will be feeling more pressure to bring home the gold than Leo. He's come painfully close in the past, yet snubbed on every occasion - but his role in Alejandro González Iñárritu's masterpiece is by far the best. Still, there are no guarantees in life - other than death and taxes, I hear.
As far as the rest of the categories are concerned, it's unlikely there will be anything close to a massive upset (you know, unless Leo loses) - with films like Mad Max: Fury Road primed to clean-up in the effects and design categories, while The Revenant & Spotlight should also snag a few here and there.

Also, look for 2015's biggest blockbusters, including Star Wars: The Force Awakens & Furious 7 to be ignored, per usual - comparable to how Jurassic World & The Avengers: Age of Ultron weren't even given a sympathy nod, despite being among the year's top earners.

Yes, perhaps this is the year that the ways of the old die - only to usher in a newer, fairer competition. But - then again, don't hold your breath.

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