BAFTA, Critics Choice, DGA Awards Bring Final Contenders Out To Play

The talk about the awards season is nearing an end, with Oscar voting getting underway on March 17. So every contender is looking to gain an advantage, and the BAFTA and Critics Choice Award (CCA) ceremonies, which take place March 13, provide that opportunity. At CCA, Kenneth Branagh's 'Belfast' and Steven Spielberg's 'West Side Story' lead the tally with 11 nominations apiece, including best picture, reports 'Variety'.

At BAFTA, 'Belfast's' six-nom tally isn't as robust as Focus Features would have liked, but prospects look strong for the film to pick up wins for original screenplay, outstanding British film and possibly supporting actor Ciaran Hinds, who is a legend across the pond.

However, the momentum for 'CODA' has been palpable since its cast won the ensemble trophy at the Screen Actors Guild Awards: The family drama is a dark horse for the best picture prize at CCA and is even more likely to add another statuette to supporting actor nominee Troy Kotsur's shelf.

The safest place for 'West Side Story' to find love has been Ariana DeBose's performance as Anita in the supporting actress category. She seems to be the one sure-fire bet to sweep the televised awards, given that the film may struggle to win in other categories, although it's competitive in many. The front-runner for both ceremonies is Jane Campion's 'The Power of the Dog'. (IANS)

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