'Street' Oscar recap

Brokeback Mountain

"Academy Award-winning director Ang Lee's new film — you know, that 'gay cowboy' movie — is well on its way to completing its evolution from relative obscurity to taking cinematic center stage." — The Daily Princetonian, 12/15/05

The favorite. Won the Golden Globe, the BAFTA Award, the New York Film Critics Award ... long story short, the Oscar is Brokeback's to lose.

Capote

"Though the film has its flaws, particularly a dragging finish, it is one of the best of the year and manages to be both entertaining and profound." — DP 10/20/05

Not a contender in the Best Picture category, but Philip Seymour Hoffman is a heavyweight in the Best Actor race. Crash

"Crash is a tour-de-force of striking cinematography and gripping, intertwined narratives, carried by a stellar cast." — DP 3/2/06

This actor-driven movie might get votes from the thespians in the Academy. Some critics say it's the only film that could edge Brokeback out as it did in the SAG Awards. Good Night and Good Luck

"It's a film with innovatively simple yet effective direction that feels, for the most part, like a movie from the era depicted. Most of all, it's a powerful story that still feels relevant even today." — DP 10/27/05

Was a shoo-in for a nomination but is unlikely to take the prize. Clooney could win for Best Director. Munich

"'Munich' unfolds like a moderated panel discussion: It strives so diligently to give all sides their due time at Spielberg's podium that, at times, there might as well have been title cards that read 'Pro' and 'Con.' " — DP 1/13/06