Oscar Picks and Predictions: BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR

I'm going to admit that I have a "sentimental favorite" in this race this year, but, the Oscar will go to a previous Oscar winner in a role that is Oscar-worthy, but not the Best Supporting Actor performance for this year... 5). Sam Rockwell - VICE: The Oscar winner in this category last year, Rockwell portrays former President George W. Bush. This nomination is more about the actor and the real-life person he is portraying rather than the performance. 4). Mahershala Ali - GREEN BOOK: A very good supporting (almost lead) performance in one of my favorite films of the year. Ali won the Supporting Actor Oscar 2 years ago and WILL WIN his 2nd Oscar for his performance as a classical pianist (who happens to be African-American and gay) in the Deep South in the early 1960's. There is a soul, dignity, purity and vulnerability to his performance that will touch your heart. 3). Richard E. Grant - CAN YOU EVER FORGIVE ME: As the partner in crime to fellow Oscar nominee Melissa McCarthy, Grant is devilishly carefree and self-absorbed in a rich (and pathetic) character that deserves to be seen. If you haven't seen this under seen film, check it out immediately for both Grant's and McCarthy's performances. 2). Adam Driver - BLACKkKLANSMAN: As the "white" Ron Stallworth, Driver brings yet another interesting, quirky character - with a richness and depth that I have come to expect from him. 1). Sam Elliott - A STAR IS BORN: My "sentimental" favorite and the one performance that I HOPE will win the Oscar this year. Elliott's turn as Bradley Cooper's (much) older brother and caretaker is equal parts tough and tender. I defy any of you to not have a tear in your eye when Elliott backs his truck out of the driveway and drives away. Ali WILL WIN the Oscar (and that's okay, it is an Oscar-caliber performance) but my heart was touched by Elliott's turn and I will be thrilled if the upset happens. And you can take this to the Bank(ofMarquis)