"Artist," Clooney, Davis, Spencer, Plummer: Yep, that sounds about right

The Critics Choice awards may be as meaningless as all the other non-Academy awards, but this year I think they were probably an accurate reflection of the upcoming Oscars. They spread the love around and landed on all the likely favorites.

The tandem wins of best actress Viola Davis and best supporting actress Octavia Spencer for “The Help” are seeming more and more likely. For one thing, it brings probably the only true blockbuster contender of this awards season some glory — these are wins the masses will embrace.

I think Michelle Williams still has a shot at best actress, but let’s face it, this would be her third Oscar nomination and she’s only 31. Davis is 46 and there’s the sense that she’s earned it.

Then there’s George Clooney taking best actor for “The Descendants.” That brings some superstar power to the stage, and again, there’s the sense that he’s earned it.

And talk about earning it — 82-year-old Christopher Plummer seems to be a best supporting actor walkaway for “Beginners.” This category is often used to honor grand veterans and let’s face it, this is the guy who starred in “The Sound of Music.”

Finally, though, the best picture of the year wins best picture of the year. Its cast of unknowns don’t really stand a chance, but “The Artist” has dominated the awards season so far and nothing seems likely to get in its way.

The odd thing is, this awards season seemed so open-ended and fuzzy just a couple of weeks ago. Now it’s looking pretty clear. The wealth will be spread around.