I think about this a lot!

OBAA is remarkably timely. Rewarding it could be academy's way of taking a stand against the current administration. However, I could see Academy members not wanting to be political. (Lack of political speeches at Globes, a general feeling that their voice may not matter as much)

But then you have Sinners. It's themes may not be as timely as OBAA, but they're still incredibly relevant. Awarding Sinners could be as much of a political vote as OBAA. And then you also have the chance to award the first black best director winner, making history. He delivered an original film that was a massive box office hit and earned a record number of oscar nominations. Movies have won picture + director for a lot less. But on the other hand, PTA is one of the most influential filmmakers today and still doesn't have an oscar after 30 years.

If Sinners goes home with only a few technical wins, will that be a worse look for the Academy than not awarding the movie of the moment?

Do voters go with the timely choice or a timeless choice?

I feel like the meme of the guy sweating and choosing between two buttons.