We’re handicapping the odds on the nine Best Picture contenders for the Feb. 26 Academy Awards. Today: Hacksaw Ridge.
Quick pitch: The Second World War rages on, and pacifist U.S. army medic Desmond Doss (Andrew Garfield) is willing to do what he can to help win it and save lives – but only if he doesn’t have to pick up a gun.
Starring: Andrew Garfield, Teresa Palmer, Vince Vaughn, Sam Worthington, Luke Bracey, Hugo Weaving and Rachel Griffiths.
Nominations: 6
Key early kudos: BAFTA Best Editing, AACTA Best Director
Box office (domestic, U.S. dollars): $66.8 million.
Ladbrokes odds: 100/1
Paddy Power: 66/1
Sky Bet: 66/1
Why it could win: It’s a rousing drama set in the past, which Oscar loves, and it has accompanying nominations for actor (Garfield), director and editing, often a portent for Best Picture glory.
Why it might not: A war movie in the bellicose time of Trump goes against the popular mood, and likely also the liberal instincts of the Academy.
Howell’s line: Academy redemption for Mel Gibson and respect for Hacksaw Ridge, but no Best Picture gold for either.
Full review:on.thestar.com/2l0AZEk
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