We had two films release this past weekend with the potential for Oscar nominations.

Can You Ever Forgive Me?

Based on a fascinating true story about down-on-her-luck author Lee Israel (Melissa McCarthy) who took to forging type-written letters from world renowned novelists to help her get through tough financial times, Can You Ever Forgive Me? has earned stellar reviews since its debut at Telluride in September.

The film co-stars noted character actor Richard E. Grant who is said to get his juiciest role in years and may be progressing towards a J.K. Simmons-style Oscar run through precursor season in Best Supporting Actor. McCarthy is also a contender moving into an overcrowded Best Actress slate. While it’s possible she gets overlooked in such a tough year, she’s still at the forefront of the competition, meaning she could be a bird-in-the-hand kind of guarantee.

As for the film, it has a shot at an Original Screenplay citation for noted indie writer/director Nicole Holofcener (along with Jeff Whitty) even though she leaves the directing to Diary of a Teenage Girl helmer Marielle Heller. Apart from the two acting categories and Original Screenplay, the film doesn’t appear to be generating much buzz.

Wildlife

Actor Paul Dano steps behind the camera for Wildlife, a drama about a young boy who watches his parents’ marriage fall apart. Starring Oscar nominees Carey Mulligan and Jake Gyllenhaal, the film has earned strong reviews.

While Jake Gyllenhaal may be a minor contender in the seemingly sparse Supporting Actor race, all of the attention is going to Carey Mulligan who is receiving rave reviews for her performance. One of a large number of women competing in the lead category, Mulligan’s prior nominations may give her a boost, especially since she hasn’t won and some might think that she’s due.

Dano isn’t likely to be the actor-turned-director who picks up a Directing citation (that will be Bradley Cooper), but he’s sure to make a nice run of the indie awards and critics votes, especially in categories like Breakthrough Filmmaker.