Shaun the Sheep Movie - 1 nomination

Animated Feature - Mark Burton and Richard Starzak

Poor little Shaun the Sheep.  He and his friends do the same thing, day in and day out.  They are on such a strict routine and they never get to venture out and see the world.  Who could blame Shaun for taking a day off and seeing the big city?  But when the rest of the flock and their pal the sheepdog find out that he is missing, they follow him to the city to bring him back home, and especially help him foil the animal containment officer whose dastardly plans include trapping Shaun in animal prison.

This animated feature is brought to us by the same team who created films like Wallace and Grommit, Chicken Run, and The Curse of the Were-Rabbit and as in the past, their film is adorable. This film overwhelmingly proves that great animation and good story line don't need dialogue, especially when the lead character is as adorable as little Shaun.  (and make sure to watch all the way to the end for a cute little extra after the credits.)

Will Shaun capture the Oscar?  My guess is that it is highly unlikely.  But if you've liked the Wallace and Grommit films, odds are you'll find this one entertaining too.  With Animated Features, the real question for me always is whether an adult would legitimately enjoy the film without child accompaniment.  Shaun the Sheep is a toss up in that regard, but I watched it without kids and I still give it an enthusiastic endorsement.