Lead Actor
My Pick: Colin Firth, The King’s Speech
I managed to see every performance in this category except for one – Javier Bardem’s Biutiful slipped through the cracks – but one thing is for certain: it takes a brilliant man to act as a king. Colin Firth is absolutely as such. His poise, stoicism, and grace while playing a vulnerable King George V is stirring, and, in my humble opinion, I think he has ascended to the highest echelon of acting – right next to Tom Hanks and Cary Grant. Unbelievable performances by Eisenberg, Bridges, and Franco make it difficult, but this is his time in what is a film to be remembered.
Lead Actress
My Pick: Natalie Portman, Black Swan
I only caught three of the leading actress performances, but I really only needed to see one – Natalie Portman outclasses the other nominees in this group in one of the most visceral performances by an actress ever. She is stunningly terrifying in her role as a beautiful ballet dancer descending into madness. Director Darren Aronofsky keeps a very moving angle on the character, which only enhances the emotions attached to the role and enhances the work. Truly revolutionary.
