Why is the highly perceptive Michael Musto predicting Manchester By The Sea to win the Best Picture Oscar, and not the blogaroo-adored La La Land? Because “there’s nothing there” inside La La Land, Musto claims — thematically it’s merely saying “follow your dreams” — while Manchester is made of the same family-rooted, finely-wrought stuff that led Ordinary People (’80) to a Best Picture win. Those who feel Manchester is too gloomy will probably do what they can to pooh-pooh this prediction, but the combination of both Musto and Indiewire‘s Anne Thompson betting on Manchester means something. HE position: As one who adores La La Land, I would be delighted if it wins the Best Picture Oscar. But honestly? I love and respect Manchester a bit more.
