His prolific CV includes scores for Driving Miss Daisy, Thelma and Louise, True Romance, Gladiator and the last three Pirates of the Caribbean films.

BBC: Batman composer Hans Zimmer records tribute song

If he wins this time, the 82-year-old will become the oldest ever actor to receive an Oscar, surpassing Jessica Tandy who was 80 when she was named best actress for Driving Miss Daisy.

BBC: Oscars: Hugo has 11 nominations, The Artist has 10

Only once in 80 years has a film ( Driving Miss Daisy) won Best Picture without even getting nominated for Best Director.

FORBES: Ten Facts You Should Know About The Oscars