It’s seen as one of the toughest Best Picture categories in recent years but an Academy Awards veteran says the momentum may be in Philomena’s favour.

The film starring Judi Dench and Steve Coogan and based on the real life story of Limerick woman Philomena Lee garnered four Oscar nominations.

Most critics have talked about the likelihood of American Hustle and 12 Years A Slave cleaning up on Oscar night. However Pete Hammond, a veteran of Oscar ceremonies and Deadline Awards columnist says the Academy loves Philomena.

Speaking on The Green Room Hammond said any Academy member he had spoken to mentioned Philomena as being one of their favourite films of the year.

The selection for Best Picture according to Hammond often goes to the film that wins the hearts of Academy members.

“Philomena is a movie they love. 12 Years A Slave is one of the front runners but it is one they admire. The passion vote and the emotional vote are much more important to the Oscars. That’s how movies like The King’s Speech and The Artist won.”

Hammond says it's unlikely Judi Dench will win Best Actress for the film, conceding that Cate Blanchett has it in the bag for Blue Jasmine.

Michael Fassbender unlikely to win

The awards columnist said his tip for best supporting actor goes to Jared leto and not Michael Fassbender.

“Michael Fassbender is tremendous in 12 Years A Slave but he’s hasn’t been out campaigning much here. Jared Leto on the other hand has been everywhere.”

Listen here for the full interview with Deadline Columnist Pete Hammond on The Green Room with Orla Barry:

 

The Green Room with Orla Barry  airs on Saturday evenings from 9pm-11pm on Newstalk106-108FM