I completely agree re: the undervaluing of screenplay writing. A good screenplay is the vital spine of any good film, and no amount of dressing up a bad screenplay can turn it into a good film. But a good screenplay can sometimes prove actor proof or director proof, if it's in the hands of less than brilliant people. :)

Also, I agree about Alexander Payne. I'm a huge fan of his and would definitely nominate him this year, ahead of Gerwig.