While ‘The Ides of March’ won’t hit theaters for a few more hours, it’s pretty clear this film is a big deal. The opening film at the Venice Film Festival, from the very beginning ‘March’ has been viewed as an early Oscar contender for best picture, and possibly some of the other categories as well.

Without having seen the film (Our very own Alia Haddad’s review will be up soon), it is obvious how we are expected to feel about this movie as an audience. That’s how you really know a film has good marketing, when you already know what the film wants you to like about it.

For instance, even though it sits at around an 80% average on Rotten Tomatoes, a seemingly low percentage for an “Oscar” contender, the film will still probably garner a Best Picture nomination. Why you ask? Well there are a few reasons for that, let’s take a look:

1) This film is very timely. With the 2012 presidential election in full force right now, what better time to release a politically themed movie? And especially in a year of political controversies (hello Anthony Weiner), the scandals in this film should be even more enjoyable.

2) The cast is perfection. The cast this film has racked up is completely stacked with Oscar favorites. George Clooney, Marisa Tomei, Paul Giamatti, and Philip Seymour Hoffman have all taken home statues in the past. Ryan Gosling has been nominated once and Evan Rachel Wood has been nominated for a Golden Globe. Yep, this cast is pitch perfect.

3) George Clooney is directing. Who doesn’t love George Clooney? You find me one person who dislikes him and I will be shocked. He’s extraordinarily handsome, witty, intelligent, and an extremely talented man. Not only is he superb at acting, he’s a damn fine director. Just check out ‘Good Night, and Good Luck,’ which was nominated for 6 Oscars in the past.

So there you have it folks. This film is an ideal example of Oscar bait. It’s got the timing, the cast, and the director. Oh and did I mention this is based off of an award-winning play too? Yep, that means the script will definitely be up for Best-Adapted Screenplay as well. While technically no one can really know until nominations come out in January, I’d say it’s a pretty safe bet this film has combined all the necessary elements to be a hit at the 2012 Academy Awards.