Oscar tip sheet: Best supporting actor

Barkhad Abdi

"Captain Phillips"

Role: Muse, a Somali fisherman turned pirate, who hijacks a merchant ship and holds the crew for ransom.

In his favor: A character at once menacing, naive, sympathetic and tragic. Holds his own against Tom Hanks. Cinderella story debut for an unknown.

Then again: Jared Leto has the kind of transformative role that voters gush over.

Daniel BrÜhl

"Rush"

Role: Real-life racer Niki Lauda, a shrewd survivor of the 1970s Grand Prix circuit.

In his favor: A surprising character arc, beginning as the apparent hero's antagonist, then overshadowing him.

Then again: The film has been a spinout in early awards-season competitions.

Bradley cooper

"American Hustle"

Role: FBI man Richie DiMaso, a lightweight aching to be taken seriously by his superiors, his mom and women generally.

In his favor: His impulsive comic energy and sheepish romanticism perfectly match the manic tone.

Then again: Cooper only curled his hair. Jared Leto wears a full wig and waxed his eyebrows off.

Michael Fassbender

"12 Years a Slave"

Role: Edwin Epps, a sadistic, ignorant but conflicted 1850s slaveholder.

In his favor: Fassbender delivers an intensive dose of fear sickness whenever he's on screen.

Then again: In a film some find difficult to watch, his scenes are the most awful. Jared Leto wears earrings.

Jared leto

"Dallas Buyers Club"

Role: Rayon, a vulnerable but business-savvy transvestite AIDS patient.

In his favor: Leto went full method, shedding 40 pounds and staying in character for the full production, even off-set. He's kind, silly, graceful and charming.

Then again: You're kidding, right?

jonah hill

"The Wolf of Wall Street"

Role: Donnie Azoff, a drug-fueled, incestuous vulgarian stock swindler and all-around fun guy.

In his favor: Shark-white teeth. Pastel sweaters. Lots and lots of Quaaludes.

Then again: Jared Leto wears painted nails and lipstick.