Following the recent release of their shortlist for Best Visual Effects, AMPAS (Academy of Motion Picture of Arts and Science) have unveiled another bake-off list which regards the seven contenders for Best Makeup and Hairstyling.

As predicted, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey makes the list along with other genuine nominees including three upcoming releases; Hollywood biopic Hitchcock, musical epic Les Misérables and historical biopic Lincoln. Sci-fi blockbusters Looper and Men in Black 3 and fantasy adventure Snow White and the Huntsman complete the group of films competing for the final three nominations on Oscar announcement day.

The Makeup branch is usually known to make a couple of surprise exclusions, with the upcoming fantasy epic Cloud Atlas and the French thriller Holy Motors both missing out on the shortlist.

The three nominees for Best Makeup and Hairstyling will be revealed alongside the other Oscar categories on January 10th 2013.