Oscar 2023: Best Supporting Actor Predictions

Alright, movie buffs! The 2023 Oscars are just around the corner, and you know what that means – it's prediction time! We're diving deep into one of the most exciting categories: Best Supporting Actor. This year, we've got a stellar lineup of performances that have captivated audiences and critics alike. So, grab your popcorn, and let's break down the contenders, analyze their odds, and make some educated guesses about who might be taking home that golden statue.

The Frontrunners

Let's kick things off with the actors who seem to be leading the pack. These are the names that have been consistently popping up in conversations, reviews, and awards buzz. Keep a close eye on these guys; they're the ones to beat!

Ke Huy Quan (Everything Everywhere All at Once)

Ke Huy Quan's performance in Everything Everywhere All at Once is nothing short of a revelation. After a long hiatus from acting, Quan's return has been met with overwhelming praise. He portrays Waymond Wang, Evelyn Wang's (Michelle Yeoh) kind but often overwhelmed husband, who exists across multiple universes. What makes Quan's performance so compelling is his ability to seamlessly transition between these different versions of Waymond, each with its own distinct personality and set of skills. In one moment, he's a timid and meek husband, and in the next, he's a confident and capable warrior from another dimension. This dynamic range showcases Quan's incredible talent and versatility.

Beyond the technical aspects of his performance, Quan brings a deep emotional resonance to the role. His portrayal of Waymond is filled with warmth, humor, and a genuine sense of love for his wife, even as they struggle with their relationship and the challenges of their lives. It’s this emotional core that makes Waymond such a relatable and sympathetic character, and it's what has resonated with audiences on a profound level. The character's journey through the film is a testament to Quan's ability to connect with viewers and evoke a wide range of emotions. Furthermore, Quan's personal story of returning to acting after years away adds another layer of depth to his performance. His journey mirrors Waymond's own journey of self-discovery and reinvention, making his portrayal all the more poignant and inspiring. The widespread acclaim and numerous awards he has already received suggest that he is the clear frontrunner in this category, and for good reason. His performance is not only technically brilliant but also deeply moving, making him a deserving contender for the Oscar.

Brendan Gleeson (The Banshees of Inisherin)

Brendan Gleeson delivers a powerhouse performance in The Banshees of Inisherin. Gleeson plays Colm Doherty, a fiddler who abruptly ends his lifelong friendship with Pádraic Súilleabháin (Colin Farrell), setting off a chain of tragic events. What makes Gleeson's performance so captivating is his ability to portray Colm's inner turmoil and existential angst. Colm is a man grappling with his own mortality and searching for meaning in his life, and Gleeson conveys this with a quiet intensity that is both heartbreaking and compelling.

Gleeson masterfully captures Colm's complex emotions, from his initial despair and frustration to his eventual acceptance of his fate. His performance is nuanced and layered, revealing new depths with each viewing. The actor uses subtle gestures and facial expressions to convey Colm's inner thoughts and feelings, drawing the audience into his world and making them feel his pain. His chemistry with Colin Farrell is also a highlight of the film. The two actors have a long history of working together, and their familiarity with each other shines through in their performances. They play off each other perfectly, creating a dynamic and believable relationship that is at the heart of the film. While the character’s actions might seem extreme, Gleeson imbues him with a humanity that makes him understandable, if not entirely sympathetic. His contribution is pivotal to the film’s overall impact, making him a strong contender in this category. His work is a masterclass in understated acting, proving that sometimes the most powerful performances are the ones that say the least.

The Strong Contenders

These actors have also delivered remarkable performances that have garnered significant attention. While they might not be the absolute frontrunners, they definitely have a shot at taking home the Oscar.

Barry Keoghan (The Banshees of Inisherin)

In The Banshees of Inisherin, Barry Keoghan delivers a heartbreaking performance as Dominic Kearney, a young man with developmental challenges who is desperate for connection and acceptance. Keoghan brings a vulnerability and innocence to the role that is both endearing and tragic. His portrayal captures the character's naiveté and his yearning for love and belonging, making him one of the most sympathetic figures in the film.

Keoghan's performance is especially powerful in his scenes with Siobhán Súilleabháin (Kerry Condon), where he expresses his affection for her. His raw and honest portrayal of Dominic's emotions is both touching and heartbreaking, highlighting the character's isolation and loneliness. The actor masterfully captures the character's complexities, showcasing his intelligence and wit alongside his vulnerabilities and insecurities. He avoids stereotypical portrayals of individuals with developmental challenges, instead presenting a fully realized and nuanced character. His commitment to authenticity is evident in every scene, making Dominic a memorable and impactful character. The emotional depth and authenticity that Keoghan brings to the role make him a standout in the film and a worthy contender for the Oscar. His ability to convey so much with subtle expressions and gestures is a testament to his skill as an actor. His performance lingers in the mind long after the credits roll, solidifying his place among the best supporting actors of the year.

Judd Hirsch (The Fabelmans)

Judd Hirsch's brief but memorable appearance in The Fabelmans has made a significant impact. He plays Uncle Boris, a family member who offers young Sammy Fabelman (Gabriel LaBelle) some crucial advice about art and life. Despite his limited screen time, Hirsch's performance is powerful and resonant, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

Hirsch embodies the eccentric and charismatic Uncle Boris with gusto, delivering his lines with a theatrical flair that is both entertaining and insightful. He infuses the character with a sense of wisdom and experience, making his advice to Sammy all the more meaningful. The actor's ability to command the screen in such a short amount of time is a testament to his skill and experience. His performance is a reminder of the importance of mentorship and the impact that a single conversation can have on a person's life. The gravitas and wisdom that Hirsch brings to the role make him a compelling presence in the film. He delivers his lines with a sense of authority and conviction, capturing the essence of a man who has lived a full and adventurous life. His performance is a highlight of the film, adding depth and complexity to the story. Even though his screen time is limited, Hirsch's portrayal of Uncle Boris is unforgettable, making him a strong contender in this category.

The Dark Horse

And finally, we have the actor who might just surprise everyone and steal the show. Keep an eye on this one; they could be the underdog that comes out on top.

Brian Tyree Henry (Causeway)

Brian Tyree Henry delivers a deeply moving and nuanced performance in Causeway. He plays James, a mechanic who forms an unlikely bond with Lynsey (Jennifer Lawrence), a soldier struggling to readjust to civilian life after a traumatic brain injury. Henry's portrayal of James is marked by a quiet strength and vulnerability, making him a compelling and sympathetic character.

Henry's performance is particularly noteworthy for its subtlety and emotional depth. He avoids clichés and instead presents a fully realized and authentic character. James is a man who has experienced his own share of trauma, and Henry conveys this with a quiet intensity that is both heartbreaking and inspiring. The actor's chemistry with Jennifer Lawrence is also a highlight of the film. The two actors play off each other perfectly, creating a believable and intimate relationship. Their scenes together are filled with genuine emotion and tenderness, making their bond all the more meaningful. The quiet strength and vulnerability that Henry brings to the role make him a standout in the film. He delivers his lines with a sense of sincerity and conviction, capturing the essence of a man who is trying to find his place in the world. His performance is a testament to his skill as an actor, showcasing his ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and grace. He could be the surprise of the night.

Final Predictions

Okay, guys, it's time to put our cards on the table. Based on the buzz, the awards season momentum, and the sheer brilliance of the performances, here are my final predictions:

• Will win: Ke Huy Quan (Everything Everywhere All at Once)
• Could upset: Brendan Gleeson (The Banshees of Inisherin)
• Don't count out: Barry Keoghan (The Banshees of Inisherin)

Of course, anything can happen on Oscar night! That's part of what makes it so exciting. But based on everything we've seen and heard, Ke Huy Quan seems to be the clear frontrunner. However, Brendan Gleeson's powerful performance could definitely give him a run for his money, and Barry Keoghan's heartbreaking portrayal could also sway voters. Brian Tyree Henry's subtle strength might just sneak in there too!

So, there you have it – my predictions for Best Supporting Actor at the 2023 Oscars. Who do you think will win? Let us know in the comments below, and be sure to tune in to the Oscars to see who takes home the gold!

Good luck to all the nominees!