Meryl Streep bags 17th Oscar nomination

Meryl Streep has achieved her 17th Oscar nomination for her portrayal of British prime minister Margaret Thatcher in 'The Iron Lady'.

She is up for the Best Actress Oscar, it was announced on 24 January, while the Oscars will take place on 26 February at the Kodak Theatre, presented by Billy Crystal.

The 62-year-old actress, who has previously won Oscars for 'Kramer Vs Kramer' in 1979 and 'Sophie's Choice' in 1982, will be competing with four other actresses for the award.

Michelle Williams has been nominated for her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in 'My Week with Marilyn', while Ronney Mara has been honoured for her role in 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo'.

Glen Close is also up for the Oscar for 'Albert Noobs', while Viola Davis has been nominated for 'The Help'.

Men up for the Best Actor Oscar include George Clooney for 'The Descendants', Jean DuJardin for 'The Artist, Brad Pitt for 'MoneyBall', Gary Oldman for 'Tinker, Tailor,Soldier, Spy' and Demien Bicher for 'A Better Life'.