It's a longshot, sure, but let's have some fun with a zany kid and a crazy idea. Let's explore a real Oscar possibility that was introduced by the shocking nomination of "Whale Rider" star Keisha Castle-Hughes in the best-actress race of 2002. Can the same thing happen next to another adorable young gal — the unflaggingly sunny little one who truly shines in "Little Miss Sunshine"?

Abigail Breslin has such a winning personality that her screen family will go to extraordinary lengths — in a busted VW van that can't stop rolling, no less — to get her to a talent contest in far-off California. Moviegoers have been so won over by her that, nearly three months after its release, the film still shines in more than 800 theaters and, as of this week, earned the exact sum ($55 million) as an Oscar rival that kept on rolling at theaters last year: "Crash."

Surely, "Sunshine" will be nommed for best comedy/musical picture at the Golden Globes and it could make the top five at Oscars, too. Breslin is a strong contender for supporting actress. Toni Collette, as her mom, probably matches her in screen time, but a good case can be made for Abigail as female lead. After all, she's the title character — just like Meryl Streep in "The Devil Wears Prada" and Forest Whitaker in "Last King of Scotland," who are supporting stars campaigning for lead this year.

Currently, Abigail is angling for supporting, but Oscar voters can put an actor wherever they please, as a startled Keisha Castle-Hughes discovered three years ago. Keisha was her film's title character, too, and campaigned in supporting because that's where Oscar voters put all kids, like it or not. Even when they're the obvious lead star like Tatum O'Neal was in "Paper Moon," who ended up winning best supporting actress at age 10.

At age 13, Keisha set a new record for youngest gal ever nommed for best actress, an achievement that could be eclipsed this year by 10-year-old Abigail. Both gals' roles are equally charming and have gung-ho spunk. There are two key differences, however. "Whale Rider" had a serious political/social theme as Keisha struggled for female empowerment in a male-dominated New Zealand culture. Abigail's role doesn't have that political weight or emotional oomph — or screen time. Will those issues matter? Sometimes just charm is enough — think sweet and frothy Juliette Binoche in "Chocolat."

Photo: If Abigail Breslin wins in the supporting race, Tatum O'Neal will remain the youngest champ, but Abigail could set a new record in the lead actress matchup.
(Fox Searchlight)