Oscar Nominees: Best Actress in a Supporting Role

My predictions: 4/5, missing Gyllenhaal
My ballot: 2/5
The nominees: Penelope Cruz (Nine), Vera Farmiga (Up in the Air), Maggie Gyllenhaal (Crazy Heart), Anna Kendrick (Up in the Air), Mo’Nique (Precious)

Penelope Cruz managed not to get left out, but this category still gives us one of the biggest surprises: Maggie Gyllenhaal for her supporting work opposite Jeff Bridges in “Crazy Heart.” I’m very sad that her inclusion has to come at the expense of Julianne Moore, whose wonderful work in “A Single Man” now goes unrecognized by Oscar, leaving that film with only one nomination for the terrific Colin Firth. It’s also a pity that Melanie Laurent couldn’t make it in, but at least both ladies from “Up in the Air” did, which makes me happy.

My current bet to win: Mo’Nique