2011 Academy Award Nominees

The 2011 Academy Awards nominations were announced this month by comedian and actress Mo'Nique. Although, Mo'Nique won an Oscar for her dramatic role in the film Precious, many remember Mo'Nique first from her stand-up comedy, and television sitcom, The Parkers. The road to the Oscars for some of the nominees have been a long time coming, some started out with small parts in indie films, but now are headlining box office hits. As you prepare to watch the nominees for this years Academy Awards, you may also want to rent their earlier films to remember how it all started.

Actress, Michelle Williams is nominated for Best Actress, in her passionate role for Blue Valentine. However, back then she was known for her portrayal of Jennifer Lindley, the girl people loved to hate, on the television show Dawson's Creek. Since her television series ended, she also received acclaim for her roles in Brokeback Mountain (2005), and The Station Agent (2003).

Black Swan, stars Natalie Portman, who is also nominated for Best Actress, for her dark portrayal of a talented ballerina. Portman's look has had slight changes over the years; however, you may remember her in quirky favorite Garden State, (2004).

The Social Network, brings actor Jesse Eisenberg, his first Oscar nomination for Best Actor, for his portrayal of facebook creator Mark Zuckerberg. The Social Network, shows Jesse's fierce acting skills, however, he also gave a great performance in Adventureland, (2009) and Rodger Dodger, (2002).

James Franco, currently is nominated for his role in 127 Hours, where he depicts the true story of mountain climber Aaron Ralston's adventure of being trapped in a canyon. However, before his dramatic role in 127 Hours, Franco, started to create his heart-throb image with films like Pineapple Express, (2008), Spider-Man, (2002), and James Dean, (2001).

Watch who wins the Oscar, when the Academy Awards airs on ABC, Sunday, February 27, 2011.