Oscar buzz for Jackson's 'Lovely Bones'

Director Peter Jackson has been rated a top 2010 Oscar hope with his new film, The Lovely Bones. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Lord of the Rings director Peter Jackson has been rated a top 2010 Oscar hope with his new film, The Lovely Bones.

The Los Angeles Times has predicted the New Zealander will scoop the pool with his adaptation of Alice Sebold's best-selling novel, possibly winning up to six of the top categories.

Jackson is no stranger to Oscars, having won 20 of the prized gongs for directing and producing the Rings trilogy.

The new film, based on the novel about the rape and murder of a teenager, has been shot in the United States and New Zealand but is not due for release until December.

Los Angeles Times film writer Tom O'Neil said actor Mark Wahlberg would be in the running to be nominated for best actor for his role in the film.

Saoirse Ronan and Rachel Weisz would be candidates for best actress, and Stanley Tucci for best supporting actor.

Three women, including Susan Sarandon were contenders for best supporting actress, he said.

Other top contenders for best picture were Clint Eastwood's untitled project, Martin Scorsese's Shutter Island, Rob Marshall's Nine, Ang Lee's Taking Woodstock and Stephen Frears' Cheri, the newspaper said this week.

- AAP