Two English actresses are certain here - Judi Dench (Shakespeare in Love) and Lynn Redgrave (Gods and Monsters), with Brenda Bleythn (Little Voice) quite possibly making it three. Regular nominee Joan Allen should be back in contention for Pleasantville, while two Hollywood stars are also in the frame, Sharon Stone (The Mighty) and Julia Roberts (Stepmom). And, believe it or not, one of the Friends cast is firmly in the running for an Oscar nomination - Lisa Kudrow (The Opposite of Sex).
They will all face competition from Kathy Bates (Primary Colors), Patricia Clarkson (High Art), Angeline Jolie (Playing By Heart) and Nicoletta Braschi (La Vita e Bella). The strong women from Dancing at Lughnasa and Beloved may all cancel each other out.
Prediction: Judi Dench, Lynn Redgrave, Lisa Kudrow, Kathy Bates, Patricia Clarkson