The Academy has very clearly responded to the #OscarsSoWhite controversy this year, with a diverse range of nominees from all walks of life. Add to this the fact that stories about tolerance and acceptance of people of other races took centre stage, like “Moonlight,” “Fences,” “Hidden Figures,” “Lion,” “Loving” etc.

However, the most Oscar nominations this year went to “La La Land,” which can easily be argued as 2016’s finest Film, but it’s the story of a white man saving a traditionally black music genre from disappearing into obscurity. It’s a ‘white saviour’ narrative, and giving it all of the awards would only serve to fuel the controversy fire.

‘La La Land’ will probably win a lot of the awards it’s up for

“La La Land” will presumably be taking home the most awards. Statistically it has to, since it has the highest chance of doing so with a record-tying 14 Oscar nominations. It will probably win Best Director and Best Original Screenplay for Damien Chazelle, since he couldn’t have made his mark on the film clearer, and Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone will likely win for their performances, since they not only displayed their range and talent, but also they’re about the two most likable actors ever. Well, Stone’s a shoo-in, but Gosling may face competition from Casey Affleck. But in any case, “La La Land” will definitely win Best Original Song for “City of Stars.” It has to.

“Fences” will most likely win the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay, since the Academy likes handing out awards posthumously and that would be one more black winner to check off the list. The same goes for the diverse supporting acting categories: Viola Davis has the best shot at Best Supporting Actress, while Mahershala Ali is almost guaranteed the gong for “Moonlight.”

Which film will win Best Picture?

And as for the Best Picture, it’s tough to call.

There are a lot of great films on the ballot this year. While one might argue that “Moonlight” or “Manchester by the Sea” deserve it more, the most votes will probably go to “La La Land,” because it glamorises the whole institution on which the Academy itself stands, and the Oscar people love that.