OSCAR BUZZ 2010 (I). Gabby Sibide and Mo'Nique for Best Actress and Supporting Actress

It's the end of the year and it's time to bet who will be reaping awards in the next months. I start this Predictions series with Sundance Grand Jury Prize winner Precious: Based on the novel Push by Sapphire (and that's not a literary note but actually part of the film's title). I haven't seen the film yet (provisonal release date in Belgium is 3/3/2010) but ever since it got the award in Sundance it hasn't stopped generating buzz.

There are certain things about this film that made me suspicious when I first read about it and that still make me think that maybe it's not as great as everybody is saying. To start with, it's co-produced by Oprah Winfrey, who has been shamelessly praising its virtues in her now terminally ill show and it co-stars a deglammed Mariah Carey in search of critical recognition.

The character played by Paula Patton looks like any other inspirational Dangerous Mind teacher and the trailer features a rather dubious musical scene that could hint at the fact that they couldn't avoid turning such a thorny subject matter as child abuse into the feel good movie of the year. The scenes between mother and daughter, however, are powerful enough to overcome all those potential flaws and both actresses seem to deliver genuinely impressive performances. With a good campaign they could grab a double nod and even the Oscar at next year's ceremony in the best leading and supporting actress categories.

Have a look.