CHOCOLAT - I have yet to see it but I don't think this will win best picture. I'm sure it will be one of the best food films made though.
CROUCHING TIGER, HIDDEN DRAGON - Feminist undertones? Anneke you're reading too much into it. Couldn't you say the reverse for 90% of the movies out there? I loved it. Very well edited and directed with multiple story lines. I would be surprised to see this foreign film win best picture primarily because it is foreign. I give it a 9.5 out of 10.
ERIN BROCKOVICH -Excellent film. Entertaining, smart, and informative. This has an excellent chance at best picture.
GLADIATOR - My gut tells me this won't win best picture but it is a great film. I'll say 9.0 out of 10.
TRAFFIC - I have not seen this but I believe it will be between Erin Brockovich and Traffic. I think this will sweep at the Oscars and win best picture.