In this Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014 photo, Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, director of the film “Birdman,” poses for a portrait at the Four Seasons Hotel in Los Angeles. AP
Two extravagant comedies, “Birdman” and “The Grand Budapest Hotel,” tied for the most Oscar nominations Thursday morning with nine nods each, including best picture.
They were joined in best-picture nominations by “Boyhood,” ”Whiplash,” ”The Theory of Everything,” ”The Imitation Game,” ”American Sniper” and “Selma.”
“The Imitation Game” trailed close behind with eight nominations. Clint Eastwood’s Navy SEAL drama “American Sniper” did especially well, landing six nods including best actor for Bradley Cooper.
Also with six nominations was Richard Linklater’s coming-of-age epic “Boyhood,” which remains the best-picture favorite.
Last year’s Oscars, hosted by Ellen DeGeneres, drew 43 million viewers, making it the most-watched entertainment telecast in a decade. “12 Years a Slave” took best picture. This year’s ceremony on Feb. 22 will be hosted by Neil Patrick Harris.