The Dark Knight: Oscar Contender?

With an $155 million opening weekend, The Dark Knight is easily the biggest movie of the year so far. It has seen universal critical acclaim, so much so that serious Oscar buzz is surrounding a superhero film for the first time. So, what are its chances at the big categories?

Best Picture
It's very possible that The Dark Knight could become the first real contender for the biggest Academy Award. The movie has everything going for it: a great cast, amazing cinematography, and a damn good script. However, the superhero stigma could possibly prevent Academy voters from embracing. Still, I definitely wouldn't count it as a possible nominee.

Best Actor
If Heath Ledger is not nominated in this category, than they lose all credibility with me. His performance is one of the best given in a superhero film, and it deserves to be rewarded. Other possible choices? There is Christian Bale (although I doubt it) and Aaron Eckhart (if he's not nominated for Supporting Actor). My money is definitely on Ledger for both the nod and the win.

Best Actress
This category is one of the only that is not an option, since there were no lead actresses.

Best Supporting Actor
If Aaron Eckhart is not considered for Best Actor, he should definitely get this category. His performance was surprisingly multi-layered and empathetic, and he was definitely one of the movie's surprises. For other choices, there is Michael Caine, who played Alfred, Morgan Freeman, who played CEO Lucius Fox, and Gary Oldman, who was Detective Gordon. All four actors were very strong, but if one had to be chosen, Eckhart should get it.

Best Supporting Actress
I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but I seriously doubt this category as well. Although Maggie Gyllenhaal was okay, her performance (and role, for that matter) was too small to warrant any real attention. If she is nominated (I seriously doubt this), her chances of winning are almost non-existent.

Best Director
Another must nomination. Christopher Nolan's work was visionary. He put together a sensational project (with a relatively small budget as well) that changed the way people view the superhero film. He has to be rewarded, at least a nod.

Best Screenplay (Original or Adapted)
While I liked the story, I truly doubt that the film will be chosen for this award. I personally enjoyed the story, the actors and the cinematography probably paid a more crucial role in that. I know there will be better screenplays than this one.

Best Cinematography
Yes. Yes. Yes. No nomination = criminal. Enough said.