Statement by the Honourable James Moore on the Announcement of the 84th Academy Award Nominees

OTTAWA, Jan. 24, 2012 /CNW/ - I am proud to see so many Canadians among the official list of Academy Award nominees announced this morning. This is a testament to our country's reputation for excellence, which extends well beyond our borders. This has been one of the best years for Canada at the Oscars. Canadians have lent their expertise to films produced or co-financed by various other countries, as well. I am grateful to everyone in our film industry; they are truly ambassadors of our culture.

On a personal note, I look forward to hosting the Ottawa premiere of Monsieur Lazhar, Canada's Oscar nominee for Best Foreign-Language Film, on February 6 at the National Arts Centre.  Those interested in attending this premiere are welcome to confirm their attendance by emailing [email protected].

I would like to congratulate those Canadians nominated today in the following categories:

For Best Actor in a Supporting Role:

• Christopher Plummer for Beginners

For Best Foreign-Language Film:

• Monsieur Lazhar, produced by Luc Déry and Kim McCraw and directed by Philippe Falardeau
• In Darkness, a Canadian minority coproduction with Poland and Germany. The film was coproduced by Canadians Eric Jordan and Paul Stephens.

For Best Short Film (Animated):

• Patrick Doyon and the National Film Board of Canada for Dimanche/Sunday
• Amanda Forbis and Wendy Tilby and the National Film Board of Canada for Wild Life

For Best Original Score:

• Howard Shore for Hugo

Best Achievement in Sound Mixing

• David Giammarco, part of the sound team nominated for Moneyball

I would also like to heartily congratulate the Canadians who are receiving the following Scientific and Technical Academy Awards:

Technical Achievement Award:

• Andrew Clinton and Mark Elendt, Side Effects Software

Scientific and Engineering Award:

• Raigo Alas, Greg Marsden, Michael Lewis, and Michael Vellekoop

Scientific and Technical Award:

• Ian Cavén, chief scientist and part of a five-man team at the U.S. company Lowry Digital

As Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages and on behalf of all Canadians, I wish all the nominees the best of luck at the upcoming 84^th Academy Awards ceremony on February 26.

(media only), please contact:

Sébastien Gariépy
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788