The Master

The Master
Paul Thomas Anderson’s confidently eccentric period drama has divided critics but still seems likely to show up several times come Oscar night thanks to a powerhouse turn from Joaquin Phoenix, who surely deserves a Best Actor nod. Philip Seymour Hoffman could be eyeing a Best Supporting nomination for his role as the charismatic cult leader Phoenix’s character befriends. While it may be too controversial to win Best Picture, it should be nominated for this and several technical categories.

Oscar heat grade: B+