Ratatouille (2007), Shrek the Third (2007) and Simpsons, The (2007) will be vying for next year's Oscar for best animated film.

They are among 12 films which will be whittled down to a shortlist of three nominees, reports Variety.com.

Also submitted for the award are: Alvin and the Chipmunks, Aqua Teen Hunger Force Movie, Bee Movie, Beowulf, Meet the Robinsons, Persepolis, Surf's Up, Tekkonkinkreet and TMNT.

Beowulf has been allowed onto the list even though it is strictly motion-capture. Polar Express was also previously considered animation rather than live action.

Nominations for the Oscars will be announced on January 22.

Source: Press Release