Lincoln

What’s it about?
Abraham Lincoln mostly, he of the stovepipe hat, unwavering principles and Gettysburg addresses. Instead of covering the breadth of his 56-year life, though, Steven Spielberg’s biographical drama concentrates on his last few months, a pivotal period in which he and his supporters contrived to pass a constitutional amendment abolishing slavery.

Why’s it nominated?
Because it’s just the kind of film the Academy loves to champion – a serious, earnest and reverential history lesson about a great man and an even greater good. Few movie-makers do this kind of thing better than Mr Spielberg, who has hardly been out of the Academy’s thinking since Schindler’s List broke his Oscar duck in 1994.

What are its chances?
Pretty good. Lincoln has more nominations – 12 – than any of this year’s shortlisted titles and is considered the frontrunner in the best picture category. Daniel Day-Lewis looks set to secure his third best actor Oscar for his majestic portrayal of Honest Abe, while co-star Tommy Lee Jones is a good punt for the supporting actor gong.