What do you think are the Oscars chances for this year's musicals: SWEENEY TODD, HAIRSPRAY and ACROSS THE UNIVERSE?

I agree with you guys, I think Todd has the best chances, I also think we could be seeing a Susan Stroman moment with Julie Taymor, but who knows. I don't know what the early reviews for Hairspray though, to me it seems like it will be a dud.

Clue FYC:
Best Picture Musical/Comedy
Best Supporting Actress (GG and SAG)

This is a new kind of role for Depp, and if he pulls it off, which I think he will, this could get him his third nomination. It may also very well get noticed in the artistic and tech categories.

I'd say SWEENEY has the best chances, and if it's done right, it could really work. Depp looks a bit young for the role, but I think he can do it. It will be hard to win over the hardcore fans of the original version, though. Also - do you think Helena Bohnam Carter will be a threat in the leading actress category? It would be completely WRONG to place her in supporting - Mrs. Lovett is a leading role - I've seen Mrs. Lovetts who stole the show over their Sweeney's. Any opinions?

An error in the article: "The only key player from the musical who has made it into the film is Nikki Blonsky as protagonist Tracy Turnblad..."

Nikki Blonsky did not appear in the stage verison - Marissa Jaret Winokur won a Tony Award for playing Tracy. Nikki is an unknown - they found her after a nationwide search for the girl to play the lead.