Best Actress
Dame Helen Mirren
The Queen
This one started off as a shoo-in. Mirren has been universally acclaimed as excellent in the Stephen Frears film, and in a year of uncertain nominees, she and her film emerged as clear leaders. This was always going to be the year for the actress, striking gold with her third nomination.
Plus, the Academy loves the British monarchy. God Save Dame Mirren.
Also Read: The Oscars 2007