'12 Years a Slave' picked by Vegas oddsmakers as Oscars favourite for best picture

This image released by Fox Searchlight shows Michael Fassbender, left, Lupita Nyong'o and Chiwetel Ejiofor, right, in a scene from '12 Years A Slave.' Fassbender was nominated for an Academy Award for best supporting actor on Thursday, Jan. 16, 2014, for his role in the film. The 86th Academy Awards will be held on March 2. (AP / Fox Searchlight, Francois Duhamel)

LAS VEGAS -- Oddsmakers in Las Vegas say "12 Years a Slave" has the best shot at winning top honours during the Academy Awards in March.

Odds released Thursday by Johnny Avello of the Wynn Las Vegas sports book list the slavery-era drama as a 2-5 favourite to win an Oscar for best picture. Avello says "Gravity" director Alfonso Cuaron is a 2-3 favourite to win for best director.

Benjamin Eckstein of America's Line is also making "12 Years a Slave" a strong favourite for best picture. He says Cate Blanchett and Chiwetel Ejiofor are the best bets in the top acting categories.

The odds are just for fun, as Nevada doesn't allow wagering on the contest.

Nominations for the 86th annual Oscars were announced Thursday. The awards will be given March 2.