A record 11 Australians have been shortlisted for this year's Academy awards in Los Angeles.
But, for the second year running, the nominations have been overshadowed by criticism of an apparent lack of diversity.
Santilla Chingaipe has more.
The first Academy Awards, popularly known as the Oscars, honoured black and white movies.
This year, many say, they're simply too white.
As the actor nominations were read, there was clearly one thing they had in common.
Their colour.
For the second year in a row, the list of finalists was criticised.
Hollywood Entertainment Writer, Jeanne Wolf.
"The voters are supposed to vote on what they think is the best work and the best film but it would have been helpful for the Academy's reputation if there had been more diversity in their choices."
Others used social media to air their frustrations, using the hashtag, #OscarsSoWhite.
"It's actually worse than last year. Best Documentary and Best Original Screenplay. That's it. #OscarsSoWhite"
"The thing about #OscarsSoWhite this year is that they really had options. CREED, STRAIGHT OUTTA COMPTON, BEASTS OF NO NATION. But: nada."
"Wow, the acting categories are VERY white this year. Like... all white. Every single nominee."
Critics say black British actor Idris Elba was unjustifiably overlooked in the best supporting actor category for his role in the Netflix drama, "Beasts of No Nation" in which he plays an African warlord.
"But it has awakened a sleeping beast. It has awakened a giant. It has put the weapons of this war back in the hands of you the young."
Films "Straight Outta Compton" and "Creed" -- featuring largely black casts and lauded by critics -- have also missed out.
Earl Ofari Hutchinson is the president of The Los Angeles Urban Policy Roundtable, an African-American activist group.
Mr Hutchinson has called on viewers to boycott the Academy Awards television broadcast.
"Hollywood only understands one thing - dollars, dollars, dollars - doesn't understand anything else. And dollars means ratings. If we drive those dollars, drive those ratings down, Hollywood is going to get the message. We're determined they get the message."
Those who did make the best actor nominations list included Leonardo DiCaprio, for his role in the survival drama, "The Revenant".
DiCaprio has missed out on an Oscar four times in the past.
Director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu says he gave a stellar performance in the film.
"Leo obviously went through very hard, physical demands to make this."
The "Revenant" received 12 nominations.
Leading the Australian contingent is George Miller, nominated for directing and best picture for "Mad Max: Fury Road".
It received 10 nominations, including cinematography and costume design.
Oscar winner Cate Blanchett has also been recognised for her work in the lesbian drama, "Carol".
The winners will be announced next month.
