The dramatic expansion of the best picture category at the Oscars may benefit films such as Up, the latest Pixar animation.

“I’m almost scared to talk about that sort of thing because, obviously, it is nothing that we have control over,” Up director Pete Docter tells Sun Media. At the same time, he says, “it’s a pleasure to even have it bandied about, you know. Because I think it shows that people are seeing it as ‘a film’, which is exactly how we look at it, which is no more or no less than a live action film.”

Since the best animated feature category was first created for films of 2001, no animated film has been nominated as best picture. With the Oscars doubling the main category to 10 titles for films of 2009, Up is a strong contender as best picture. It is also considered the leader in the best animated feature category.

“I think it’s exciting with the Academy doing that,” says Up producer Jonas Rivera, “because it opens it up. More films have a chance, which is kind of cool. If it helps an animated film or two to get to that level, then I think it’s a good thing.”

Docter already has been nominated for four Oscars, all shared with collaborators. Two came for best original screenplay, one for best animated feature and one for best animated short. He has not yet won an Oscar.