We can be certain that ROTS will receive several Oscar nominations in the technical categories and also, most likely, for the soundtrack composed by John Williams. But, I was wondering if anybody thinks that it could receive nominations in some of the more high profile categories, specifically Supporting Actor (Ian McDiarmid), Director, and Film. I think it may get some of the bigger nominations. Here's my reasoning on this:

-The film was highly rated by both fans and critics and widely regarded as the best of the prequels. Some critics even went as far to say it was the best of all of the Star Wars films. It was also the highest grossing film by far in what has otherwise been a lackluster year.
-The Academy may want to honor Lucas' entire body of work with a few high profile nominations (similarly to how Return of the King was honored with nominations and awards as almost a tribute to the entire series).
-Most of the other films released this year have been pretty bad and roundly and soundly panned by the critics. I have not really heard any real Oscar buzz around any films. Given the lack of any standout films, the Academy may see fit to spare a few nominations for ROTS.

My predictions are as follows:

-Visual Effects (winner)
-Sound Editing
-Editing
-Costumes (winner)
-Cinematography
-Original Score - John Williams (winner)
-Supporting Actor - Ian McDiarmid (winner)
-Director
-Film

I believe the film will get some of the technical awards (and I'm not fooling myself into thinking they'll actually win best picture) and I think that John Williams outdid himself on the score and will get the Oscar. My dark horse is Ian McDiarmid. I loved his performance. He also has two things on his side... he was great in the film and he's British, which seems to excite the Academy voters.

So, I pose two questions for you that I would like to hear your opinions on:

What nominations do you think ROTS will receive?

What other films out this year (both already out and yet to be released) have any Oscar buzz?