Each year, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science hosts the annual Academy Awards (also known as the Oscars), which honor the best in film from the previous year. Historically, animation has been one of the less-appreciated genres, and unfortunately, this year is no exception. However, what few nominations were received are quite something to see.

^promotional poster for the 86th Academy Awards, showcasing host Ellen Degeneres (aka Dory from "Finding Nemo")^

Animated films have only been nominated in two categories this year, including the one that is exclusive to the group, Best Animated Film. In years past, Pixar has oftentimes won (the only exceptions being either years when no film was made, and 2006 and 2011). This year, however, Pixar's film, Monsters University, was not nominated. This may seem like a shock, but the hard truth is that critics and fans alike did not enjoy this Pixar film as much as they have enjoyed others. The nominees are The Croods, Despicable Me 2, Ernest & Celestine (a foreign film), Frozen, and The Wind Rises (the final film from Japanese anime filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki).

Most critics and analysts predict either Frozen or The Wind Rises to win the Best Animated Film award (which has become something of a hit among movie fans). Will the Academy finally give the award to a Disney film, or honor Miyazaki's final film with the Oscar? We'll see on March 2.

The only other category animated films can be seen are Best Original Song. Historically, this and Best Score have been the most loved for animated films (going all the way back to 1940, when Pinocchio won in both categories). This year, not one but two animated films have been nominated for their songs: "Let It Go" from Frozen, and "Happy" from Despicable Me 2. Many analysts predict "Let It Go" to win, though it has strong competition in "Ordinary Love", a song from the documentary Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom - which won the Golden Globe earlier this week.

What do you think will win in each category? Share your thoughts in the comments!