`Avatar`, `The Hurt Locker` lead Oscar race

Los Angeles: Acclaimed filmmaker James Cameron`s 3D sci-fi epic "Avatar" and Kathryn Bigelow`s war thriller "The Hurt Locker" have bagged maximum nominations for the upcoming 82nd annual Academy Awards. Both films have been named in nine categories. "Avatar" has received nominations under the best picture, art direction, cinematography, director, film editing, music (original score), sound editing, sound mixing and visual effects category.

While "The Hurt Locker" has been selected in the best picture, actor in lead role, cinematography, director, film editing, music (original score), sound editing, sound mixing and writing (original screenplay). Leading the best actor category are Jeff Bridges ("Crazy Heart"), George Clooney ("Up in the Air"), Colin Firth ("A Single Man"), Morgan Freeman ("Invictus") and Jeremy Renner ("The Hurt Locker"). In the best actresses category, the nominees are for Sandra Bullock ("The Blind Side"), Helen Mirren ("The Last Station"), Carey Mulligan ("An Education"), Gabourey Sidibe ("Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire") and Meryl streep ("Julie & Julia"). On the best director`s list are James Cameron ("Avatar"), Kathryn Bigelow ("The Hurt Locker"), Quentin Tarantino ("Inglourious Basterds"), Lee Daniels ("Precious:Based on the Novel "Push" by Sapphire") and Jason Reitman ("Up in the Air"). The award distribution ceremony will take place March 7 at Kodak Theatre here. IANS