A slight shuddering of the embargo window took place last weekend when Tom Hooper’s version of Les Misérables finally screened for select audiences. Reviews are forbidden for another few weeks, but Universal Pictures will be happy with the whispers that sneaked out via social media as the credits ran. The film has now raced ahead of previous favourites Lincoln, Argo and Silver Linings Playbook to secure the shortest odds for the best picture Oscar with pundits and bookies. Anne Hathaway, who plays doomed Fantine in the picture, is also said to be a strong favourite for best supporting actress.

Were Les Misérables to triumph it would be Universal’s first best picture winner since A Beautiful Mind 10 years ago. We haven’t seen the film. So we can’t comment. Heck, for all we know, John Carter could still grab the glory.