Gary Oldman - Gary Oldman 'Humbled' By First Ever Oscar Nomination

There were certainly whispers that Oldman would pick up a nomination this year, though it was far from a foregone conclusion. On hearing the news, (24 January 2012), the London-born star told the Press Association, "This afternoon in Berlin I have learned that I was nominated for an Academy Award in the category of Best Actor.You may have heard this before, but it has never been truer than it is for me today, it is extremely humbling, gratifying, and delightful to have your work recognised by the Academy, and to join the celebrated ranks of previous nominees and colleagues. Amazing". A win for Oldman at the ceremony in February 2012 would no doubt be a huge boost for the British film industry, though he finds himself in the same category as big-hitters George Clooney and Brad Pitt, not to mention The Artist's Jean Dujardin. It's the French silent-flick that looks most likely to triumph at the Oscars and the movie's director Michel Hazanavicius spoke of his delight at its 8 nominations, saying, "Filming The Artist in Los Angeles was a dream come true, and to receive this recognition today is far beyond what I ever imagined.I couldn't have done this film without the incredible cast of actors and outstanding crew whose heart and souls were poured into this project".

In terms of surprise nominations, Moneyball star Jonah Hill secured himself a nod, as did the little known Demian Bichir for 'A Better Life'. Spare a thought though for Leonardo Dicaprio, Ryan Gosling and Michael Fassbender who all missed out.