Oscars roll out red carpet today

The Oscars rolled out the red carpet on Sunday for the movie industry’s biggest night, with Iran hostage drama “Argo” and presidential drama “Lincoln” in a tight race for Best Picture.

Indians can look forward to at least one Oscar nod, with Ang Lee helmed “Life of Pi”, based on author Vikas Swarup’s book, securing 11 nominations, including one for Best Picture. Carnatic singer Bombay Jayashri’s lullaby in the film has been nominated in the Best Original Song category.

Top contender “Lincoln” has been co-produced by Reliance-Dreamworks studio, owned by Anil Ambani.

With several contests too close to call, a slate of big box office hits to celebrate and an unpredictable first-time host in Seth MacFarlane, movie fans could be in for surprises when the curtain rises on the 85th annual Academy Awards.

Before the festivities begin, nominees including Jennifer Lawrence, Hugh Jackman, Sally Field, Jessica Chastain, British singer Adele and "Argo" producer George Clooney, along with performers Barbra Streisand and Jennifer Hudson will parade along the 500-ft long (152-metre) red carpet before dozens of photographers and camera crews.