I believe it was given limited release in time for this year’s Oscars. Boyhood would be an easy out, though. Even if it doesn’t win Best Picture, it’ll win something.
I believe “boyhood” will win for best picture and best directing. Not to take anything away from “American Sniper”. However, boyhood should win. It may also win for best supporting actress for Patricia Arquett. Although my favorite movie she was in will always be “True Romance”.
Academy voters are given dvds on all the movies prior to voting. In the old days, they had to go to the movies.