Glenn Close’s ‘Albert Nobbs’ and Michael Fassbender’s ‘Shame’ tipped for Oscar recognition

Gossip about front-runners for the Oscars is already flying despite the ceremony not being held until February. The Huffington Post reports that this year the golden statutes are truly up for grabs, unlike in previous years when clear-cut victors emerged early.

Among those being spoken about for nominations is Glenn Close, for her work in the 19th century era piece about a woman posing as a man in Dublin, Ireland, as well as Kerry native Michael Fassbender for his work in the film ‘Shame.’ Similarly, Meryl Streep for her role as Margaret Thatcher in ‘The Iron Lady’ is also gaining steam.

Close refuses to jump to any conclusions when it comes to talk of nominations and awards. "I've gone through my whole career not believing anything's going to happen until it happens," Close said. "I don't expect anything. I think, just do your work, and that's what you've got."

And Close certainly did do her work for ‘Albert Nobbs.’ Having been involved in the 1982 off-Broadway production of the story, she’s been working since then to bring it to the big screen. Irishwoman Sinead O’Connor is also attached to the film and gaining some Oscar buzz also for singing the theme to the film.

In the film, Close stars as a woman posing as a man, in hopes of attaining a better life for herself. The Huffington Post points out that Hilary Swank claimed the Oscar for ‘Boys Don’t Cry’ in 1999 in a role that required her to cross-dress, similar to Close’s role in ‘Albert Nobbs.’
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Read More:
Glenn Closes’ transformation into Mr. Albert Nobbs on the streets of Dublin - trailer released - VIDEO

Michael Fassbender gives deeply unsettling performance as a sex-addict in 'Shame' - VIDEO

Meryl Streep’s ‘The Iron Lady’ insulting to Margaret Thatcher - VIDEO
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Michael Fassbender is also gaining more Oscar steam with the release of his latest film ‘Shame.’ In the movie, Fassbender stars as sex-addicted businessman who lives in New York City, after emigrating to the US from Ireland as a teenager.

The film, slapped with an NC-17 rating due in part to Fassbender’s full-frontal nudity, is undoubtedly explicit, but Fassbender gives the performance of his career. While doubts are high that Fassbender will actually win the Oscar for Best Actor, he’s practically a shoe-in for a nomination.

The Oscars without an appearance from acting great Meryl Streep is nearly unheard of today, as the actress holds the record for most nominations. Her role as Margaret Thatcher in ‘The Iron Lady,’ deemed controversial by some, is gaining Streep Oscar buzz as well.

Who do you think will be taking home an Oscar in February? Check out some of trailers below: