happening in ukraine. one of the hosts said she hoped president zelensky might even address the guests. as for the ceremony, the acting categories are the ones that punch out. west side story�*s arianna debose is tipped to win best supporting actress, the first openly queer woman of colour to take that prize. as momentous, will smith could clinch best actor, only the fifth black man to do so, for his portrayal of the father of tennis stars venus and serena williams in king richard. and troy kotsur should win best supporting actor and become the first deaf man with an acting oscar. sci—fi epic dune could win a sweep of craft categories, though for the first time, controversially, those awards aren't being handed out live. as for uk and irish hopes, they're pinned on sir kenneth branagh's belfast — up for seven oscars, including best picture. katie razzall,