UPDATED JAN 18: Sony Pictures Releasing International launches Quentin Tarantino’s best picture Oscar nominee this weekend in the UK, Germany, Russia and France.

Django Unchained is also set to arrive in Mexico, Brazil, Spain and Hong Kong in what should be a mighty opening session. The film has become Tarantino’s biggest hit in North America and stands at $129m through The Weinstein Company.

Meanwhile Fox International sends out Lincoln, the Academy Awards frontrunner on 12 nominations, in its first international foray.

The historical drama arrives in Spain and Mexico in what is regarded as a big test of its global appeal. Steven Spielberg directed Golden Globe dramatic actor winner Daniel Day-Lewis in the film, which has amassed more than $154m in North America through Buena Vista.

Fox and Dreamworks co-financed the project with the involvement of Participant Media. Buena Vista distributes Dreamworks films in North America per the companies’ standing agreement.

Speaking of Fox International, Ang Lee’s acclaimed Life Of Pi is expected to deliver another significant weekend. The fantasy adventure stood at $362.6m as of Jan 15.

Comedy Parental Guidance on $23.7m opens in around eight territories including Russia, while Sundance 2012 drama The Sessions arrives in the UK, South Korea, Taiwan and Holland.

Working Title’s Les Misérables stands at $92.9m and will soar past the $100m mark through Universal Pictures International.

Warner Bros Pictures International’s The Hobbit has amassed more than $600m and should cross $625m before long. Gangster Squad opens this weekend in Argentina, with Germany, Russia and Italy to follow next weekend.

Paramount Pictures International opens Hansel & Gretel in the high piracy market of Russia ahead of the North American release on Jan 25. Jack Reacher arrives in South Korea.

Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures International’s Wreck-It Ralph has grossed more than $157.8m and opens in Poland.

Finding Nemo 3D debuts in France and has grossed $18.4m. Frankenweenie arrives in Italy on Jan 17 and Norway on Jan 18 and stands at $43.5m. Monsters Inc 3D opens in Australia/New Zealand, Israel, Peru and Russia on Jan 17 and the UK on Jan 18 and has amassed an early $1m.