But the experts said that if "King's Speech" sweeps through early categories like costume design, it will have momentum. Fans might see its supporting star Geoffrey Rush win. Likewise, Helena Bonham Carter in "King Speech" or 14 year-old Hailee Steinfeld in "True Grit" could claim supporting actress.

The tightest race is best director. "King's Speech" maker Hooper claimed top honors from Hollywood's directors, but Fincher took home the British film Academy's honor on Hooper's home turf. Experts said the race is too close to call.

FRANCO, HATHAWAY

Meanwhile, Oscar organizers took the highly unusual step of hiring non-comedians -- Franco, 32, and Hathaway, 28 -- as the co-hosts for this year's telecast, which annually is the second most watched TV show in the United States.

Typically, the Academy has hired comics such as Jon Stewart or Ellen DeGeneres to host the show, but Franco and Hathaway are dramatic actors. Their choice is widely viewed as a move by the Academy to lure younger audiences.

Franco, Hathaway and the show's producers have been quiet about what they have in store on Oscar night, but in interviews with Oscar organizers the hosts echoed the "You're Invited" theme of this year's show, saying it was inclusive for movie audiences of all types and ages.

Hathaway said Franco would be the perfect host because he'll do just about anything to get the right performance.

"When it comes to taking risks, especially in comedy and all kinds of performance, I think James is the most brave actor of my generation," Hathaway said. "I don't think he has any kind of ego about that stuff."

Last year's telecast lured 41 million U.S. viewer -- the most-watched Oscars in five years -- and organizers hope to maintain that momentum. In fact, the recent Grammy (music) and Golden Globe (film and TV) awards saw increased viewers.