Oscar Predictions: Best Director

January 5th Update. 

In another strong category, the win should come down to McQueen and Cuaron. It's a strong category, but I'd be really surprised if anyone outside of the top 8 made it in. Jonze and Payne look like the most likely spoilers.

1. Steve McQueen- 12 Years a Slave

12 Years a Slave is the frontrunner. McQueen has hit every single precursor. Some people are predicting a Best Picture/Best Director split, but I think McQueen will still win. (Previously #1)

 2. Alfonso Cuaron- Gravity

It's between McQueen and Cuaron at this point. I have him 2nd right now because the Academy hasn't shown much love for Sci-Fi films in the past. (Previously #2)
 
3. David O. Russell- American Hustle

The tremendous love for American Hustle is a bit surprising, but it makes David O. Russell a lock for his 3rd Best Director nomination. American Hustle is one of the top 3 contenders right now. (Previously #4)

4. Martin Scorsese- The Wolf of Wall Street

Martin Scorsese has a ton of support with the Academy. Wolf has also been a big hit with the guilds. After landing a DGA nod, Scorsese is looking even likelier. (Previously #5)

5. Paul Greengrass- Captain Phillips

Greengrass is looking good for his first nomination since United 93 in 2006. Spike Jonze could sneak in, but I'm sticking with the DGA lineup right now. (Previously #3)
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Other Possibilities

6. Spike Jonze (Previously #9)

7. Alexander Payne- Nebraska (Previously #8)

8. Joel and Ethan Coen- Inside Llewyn Davis (Previously #6)

9. Ron Howard- Rush (Previously #7)

10. Lee Daniels- The Butler (Previously unranked)