The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced its shortlist of contenders for the best make-up Oscar.

The films in alphabetical order are: Apocalypto; Click; Pan's Labyrinth; Pirates Of The Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest; The Prestige; The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause; and X-Men: The Last Stand.

The Academy's Makeup Award Nominating Committee will view 10-minute excerpts from each of the seven shortlisted films on Jan 20. The three nominees will be unveiled on Jan 23.

The 79th Annual Academy Awards will take place in Hollywood on Feb 25.