It's time to roll out the red carpet and pop the champagne for Hollywood’s biggest night. At Smith & Berg Property Group, we know a thing or two about the glitz and glamour of LA — and while we might spend our days selling dream homes rather than making movie magic, we sure love awards season buzz.
So, who’s most likely to take home those coveted gold statuettes? Whether you’re a true cinephile, like our very own TV-producer-turned-SBP-agent Robert Morton, or you’re just in it for the fashion, here’s what we’re predicting for Oscar night.
And the Oscar Goes To...
Best Picture
SBP Prediction: "Anora"
Sean Baker’s Anora, the story of a Brooklyn sex worker who unexpectedly marries the son of a Russian oligarch, has captivated critics and audiences alike. It’s raw, funny, and deeply human, striking that perfect balance of indie heart and mainstream appeal. While Dune: Part Two dazzled with its visual spectacle and The Brutalist carried historical weight, Anora has the kind of unexpected momentum the Academy loves to reward.
"'I'm Still Here' should win...could be the best picture I've seen all year. 'But Anora' will win. If you liked it, visit Brighton Beach next time you're in NYC." — Robert Morton
Best Director
SBP Prediction: Sean Baker, "Anora"
Baker’s ascent from indie favorite to Oscar frontrunner feels complete after his Golden Globe and Directors Guild wins. His ability to capture authentic performances, often from first-time actors, is unmatched. While Brady Corbet’s meticulous direction in The Brutalist impressed, Baker’s storytelling magic feels unstoppable this year.
"Sean Baker will win. You've got to love the young upstart, it's the reason I love working with David Berg." — Robert Morton
Best Actor
SBP Prediction: Adrien Brody, "The Brutalist"
Brody delivers a powerhouse performance as a Hungarian Jewish architect navigating post-war America. It’s the kind of role the Academy loves — transformative, deeply emotional, and anchored in history. Though Timothée Chalamet’s turn as Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown has its supporters, Brody’s quiet intensity might just seal the deal.
"Adrien Brody for his second well-deserved win." – David Berg
Best Actress
SBP Prediction: Demi Moore, "The Substance"
Demi Moore’s Hollywood comeback in this provocative body horror film is one of the most talked-about performances of the year. She delivers a career-defining turn, tackling themes of identity and aging with fearless intensity. The Academy has a history of rewarding actors for reinvention, and Moore’s performance is impossible to ignore.
"Demi Moore FTW." — F. Ron Smith
Best Supporting Actor
SBP Prediction: Kieran Culkin, "A Real Pain"
Culkin’s post-Succession career is off to a stellar start. His performance in A Real Pain, playing a man confronting family trauma, is equal parts funny and devastating. The Academy loves a breakout moment, and Culkin’s effortless blend of wit and vulnerability makes him the standout.
"Kieran Culkin should and will win — playing a Jew might be a stretch, but he pulls it off beautifully." — Robert Morton
Best Supporting Actress
Our Prediction: Zoe Saldaña, "Emilia Pérez"
After years of blockbuster roles, Saldaña showcases new depths in this musically-infused crime drama. The Academy loves when actors break out of their comfort zones, and her performance in Emilia Pérez is a revelation.
"Zoe Saldana should win and will win...sings, dances and acts up a storm." — Robert Morton
Host Your Own Oscar-Worthy Party
Want to celebrate Hollywood’s biggest night in the comfort of your home? You’ve come to the right place. Start by printing out a pro-quality Vanity Fair ballot with a prize for whoever predicts the most winners correctly (may we suggest a bottle of Clase Azul?). Or create your own “This or That” game (you can even buy one on Etsy here) to get the conversation flowing. OR take the bingo route and create cards with squares like "winner cries during speech," "political statement," or "trip on stage” — you know the drill.
Everyone loves a drinking game, too — all you have to do is take a sip when someone thanks their agent, cries, or gets played off by the orchestra. No props or print-outs required. And when it comes to food and drinks, keep it on theme. Set up a popcorn bar with different seasonings and toppings, whip up a batch of Oscar cocktails, and thank us later.
“The best Oscar party food & drinking pairing? All-beef pigs in a blanket and a refreshing Ranch Water. And when it comes to my preferred attire: jeans, an inappropriately loud shirt, and my white Common Projects.” — F. Ron Smith
"The best pairing is probably champagne and caviar...but I'll be serving Diet Coke and pizza. For my outfit — t-shirt and boxers, but since I'm having guests, I'll just wear the boxers." — Robert Morton
"The best Oscar party pairing is chicken wings on a white couch. Attire? Robe and velvet slippers, of course." — David Berg
Whether your Oscar predictions are spot-on or completely off-base, gathering with friends to celebrate the magic of movies is always a win. Tag us in your Oscar night stories @smithandberg!
