Oscar buzz builds around Nolan's "The Odyssey" and sci-fi "Project Hail Mary"

As the Emmy season approaches, Oscar speculation is already underway, with Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey" and the film adaptation of "Project Hail Mary" positioned as likely Best Picture candidates. Insiders note that the cast of "The Odyssey," including Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway and Samantha Morton, is receiving particular attention, while Ryan Gosling faces a challenging but hopeful path for recognition in "Project Hail Mary."

Colman Domingo's portrayal of Joe Jackson in Lionsgate's "Michael" has sparked predictions of a supporting-actor win. Festival buzz is expanding to include Martin McDonagh's "Wild Horse Nine" at Venice and Telluride, Andrew Scott's biopic "Elsinore" at TIFF, and other titles such as Siân Heder's "Being Heumann," Werner Herzog's "Bucking Fastard," and Danny Boyle's adaptation of "Ink." Documentary projects on Elizabeth Holmes and Elon Musk are also slated for October releases, adding further depth to the awards conversation.