Long known as one of the more progressive branches of the Academy, the writer's always have a difficult task in selecting 10 screenplays for two Oscar statues.  Unlike other years, however, there are very few locks for 2010.  Yes, Aaron Sorkin's work in "The Social Network" and Christopher Nolan's complex "Inception" are probably a given in adapted and original respectively, but beyond that every other slot is up for grabs. 

Oscar fans will have a better idea of who will make the cut when the Writer's Guild announces their own yearly honorees Jan. 4.  In the meantime, check out this intriguing list of contenders looking to make their mark in Academy Awards history.

[Left, Leonardo DiCaprio in Christopher Nolan's "Inception."]