The Race Officially Starts Here!

So the Oscar race is finally getting into second gear when the NBR is announced tomorrow afternoon. After all, NBR have even more power this year to resurrect films and performers or alternatively, to shatter them. With the picture race totally wide open, and the actress category devoid of many award-worthy performances, it's as unpredictable as ever. Pictures that will have their fate determined by NBR:

• Cinderella Man - One of the year's early successes faded into the background with little impact overall. But if there's anything you can be sure of, it's that the picture perfectly fits the bill of an Oscar nominee. That's a long shot. But NBR could resurrect the films chances at multiple nominations, either by placing the film in its Top 10, or by giving Howard and/or Giamatti a prize.

• Crash - Another of the year's early successes, but one which has a number of possible oscar opportunities, and will almost certaintly win the ensemble prize. Crash could be a prominent feature though, should they choose to place the film in the top 10, or give awards to Haggis or Dillon.

• Pride and Prejudice - The question is whether NBR are head over heels for period costume dramas. Past NBR picture prizes have gone to Quills and last year to Finding Neverland, which would suggest so. It's also been released at a perfect time for this. When all is said and done though, it is a remake, and there are lots of alternatives to choose from.

• Memoirs Of A Geisha - It's crunch time for Memoirs. Could top the list and could be left out altogether. I think an NBR snub would spell the end. However, wins for Gong Li and Rob Marshall are possible. It could also win screenplay.

Read my NBR Predictions here . Feedback tomorrow night. I can't wait!