"We couldn't be more thrilled to have such a diverse range of films recognized by the Academy," said Jim Gianopulos, CEO and Chairman 20th Century Fox Film. "And it's been equally gratifying to see how audiences throughout the world have embraced these pictures."

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Indeed, in a break from years past, several of this year's best picture nominees were commercial as well as critical successes. Four of the nominees -- "Les Miserables," "Lincoln," "Django Unchained" and "Argo" -- have grossed more than $100 million each in North American ticket sales, an unusually large number for a best-picture crop.

These films either already are in more than 2,000 theaters or were there earlier in their run.

"Lincoln" producer Kathleen Kennedy told Reuters this was a "very healthy indication" for creativity in the movie business.

"I think the wonderful thing about this year is there are so many really good movies, not just from a story standpoint but the fact that so many...are doing great business," she said.

"A few years ago many of the people...were frustrated by the fact that they felt the studio system was not going to make these kind of projects any more," she said.

Among the day's big misses was Dreamworks Animation, whose "Rise of the Guardians" failed to score a best animated feature nomination, against "Frankenweenie," "Wreck-It Ralph," "ParaNorman," "The Pirates!Band of Misfits" and "Brave".

NOMINATIONS "DO WONDERS"

But for more successful studios, their nominations will spur more ticket sales, experts say.

"For the right film at the right time, Oscar nominations and most importantly a best picture nomination can do wonders for a nominated film's cachet, profile and 'must see' factor," said Paul Dergarabedian, president of the box office division of Hollywood.com.

The privately-held Weinstein Co, which is headed by brothers Harvey and Bob Weinstein and is well-known for its intense post-nomination marketing strategy, pulled in 16, including nods for "Silver Linings Playbook," "The Master" and "Django Unchained".