In our season 8 premiere, EW’s Clarissa Cruz and Joshua Rothkopf chat about the frontrunners right now, as well as some personal favorites they'd like to see become contenders for Best Picture. Unlike last year's indie-dominated Oscar race, this year has a more traditional mix of studio fare and edgy triumphs. Then we feature interviews with three hotly buzzed directors: Kenneth Branagh ('Belfast'), Questlove ('Summer of Soul') and Mike Mills ('C'mon C'mon'). For complete awards coverage, go to EW.com/awardist.

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