Pro: Like “Les Mis” hero Jean Valjean, damaged, sympathetic antagonist figure Javert is a meaty, tried-and-tested character that any actor would want to play – and it’s arguably a co-lead role, a factor that often helps actors who agree to slum it in supporting. Crowe’s ideally cast, and a more practised singer than many might realize – all the film’s stars, moreover, are likely to get bonus points from voters for the much-hyped live-vocal approach.

Con: After racing to three consecutive nominations at the beginning of the century, Crowe looked to be an Oscar perennial – but hasn’t scored since, despite baity performances in “Master and Commander” and “Cinderella Man.” Do voters hold the actor’s famously prickly, even volatile, personality against him? Sadly, with the Academy, it isn’t always about the work on screen.

- Guy Lodge