Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role

Philip Seymour Hoffman in "Capote"

Terrence Howard in "Hustle & Flow"

Heath Ledger in "Brokeback Mountain"

Joaquin Phoenix in "Walk the Line"

David Strathairn in "Good Night, and Good Luck"

Everyone on this list is deserving, but clearly the winner should be Hoffman for his incredible portrayal of Truman Capote.

Hoffman is not imitating Capote; instead, he portrays the famed writer Capote as if channeling him. A sure second pick would

Strathairn for his exceptional performance as legendary journalist Edward R. Murrow. However, both these gentlemen are older,

and Academy voters, if they follow suit, love to give Oscars to "young, good-looking stars." Therefore, I would not be

surprised if the Oscar for lead actor goes to Phoenix for his portrayal of Johnny Cash or Ledger for playing what should be