Nitro or 'Norbit?'

By Mark Olsen, The Envelope

When a performer has more than one role garnering awards buzz in a given season, it is inevitable that they begin to reflect off each other.

Putting aside the sometimes awkward juggling of which part has a better shot as “supporting” versus in a leading race, in a best case scenario the two roles combine into one full-tilt, nitro-burning awards push.

Last awards go-round, more than one commentator noted that the ugly, down-market billboards that blanketed Los Angeles for “Norbit” likely helped derail Eddie Murphy’s Oscar run for “Dreamgirls.” Here’s a few of this year’s contenders with more than one hat in the ring, and the awful day-of-reckoning decision of how they fit together – Nitro or Norbit?

Olivier does 'Hamlet,' Tracy gets sick and everybody loves Jimmy Stewart.

Bancroft's diss, Hepburn and Streisand tie and a double-shot of Liz.