Oscars celebrated by university for graduate work

Dune: Part Two stars Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya

Dozens of graduates from a university have worked on films nominated at this years Academy Awards.

More than 40 former students from Bournemouth University's computer animation and media production departments worked on some of last year's biggest films.

They include sci-fi blockbuster Dune: Part Two and papal thriller Conclave, both of which are nominated for best picture at Sunday's ceremony.

The 97th Oscars, hosted by comedian Conan O'Brien, take place on Sunday evening at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, with the show starting at midnight (GMT).

Dozens of Bournemouth University graduates worked on some of 2024's biggest films

Prof Paula Callus, head of computer animation at Bournemouth University in Dorset, said it was "always exciting" reading the Oscar nominations to "see just how many former students have contributed to these exceptional films".

"It shows the calibre of our graduates and how hard they work that they are now so successful across the industry.

"We wish all those involved the very best of luck as the awards season gets underway."

Former Bournemouth graduates worked in roles including digital and visual effects artists, animation directors, camera operators and graphic designers on the nominated films.

DNEG, a company co-founded by an honorary Bournemouth graduate, was the lead visual effects partner on Dune: Part Two.

The film, directed by Denis Villeneuve, is a favourite in this year's visual effects category - an accolade it won in February's Baftas.

Robyn Luckham worked on Dune: Part Two

Robyn Luckham, who studied at Bournemouth and is now animation director at DNEG, said it was a "great privilege" to receive a second nomination for their work on the franchise, which is based on Frank Herbert's novels.

"Part Two took the work to another level, and everyone on the team stepped up to meet it," he said.

Paying tribute to his time studying on the south coast of England, he said: "I studied Bournemouth University undergraduate and masters courses from 1997 to 2001 and the passion, teamwork and skills that I learned there have been a staple throughout my entire career."