Heywood film producer nominated for an Oscar

Film producer Baldwin Li from Hopwood has been nominated for an Oscar for his short film The Voorman Problem, which stars actor Martin Freeman.

Baldwin and film director Mark Gill have been nominated in the live action short film category for the film which they co-wrote.

The 13 minute film was shot around Manchester and tells the story of a prisoner who believes he is God. His psychiatrist is then sent in to see if he is a faker.

Starring alongside Martin Freeman, who plays the psychiatrist is Pirates of the Caribbean, is actor Tom Hollander as the prisoner.

This is the first Oscar nomination for both Baldwin and Mark Gill.

Last year the film was nominated for a BAFTA and the film making duo knew their work was being considered for an Oscar six weeks ago. The pair found out they were nominated on Thursday 16 January when the nominations were announced publicly.

Writing on social media, Baldwin said: “Absolutely exhilarated, beyond words to announce that our short film The Voorman Problem has been nominated for an Oscar!

"A huge thank you again to everyone who was involved in the making of this film and congratulations to you all - we couldn't have done it without you.”

The Oscars awards ceremony will take place on Sunday 2 March.