– Demián Bichir, "A Better Life"
– George Clooney, "The Descendants"
– Jean Dujardin, "The Artist"
– Gary Oldman, "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy"
Upsets: After getting nominated for other major acting prizes, such as the Golden Globes, actor Michael Fassbender was considered a shoo-in for a nomination, and Leonardo DiCaprio was considered most likely getting one as well, though Oldman had been gaining ground. But Oldman was able to get the fourth slot and Fassbender was completely shut out, with the fifth slot going to Bichir for "A Better Life." Bichir had been nominated for a Screen Actors Guild award, but was considered to have less of a chance than the other contenders.
