For the third year in a row, a Quebec-based film is in the race for Oscar glory.

The Quebec film "Rebelle" or "War Witch" has grabbed a nomination for best foreign film.

The movie is directed by Montreal filmmaker Kim Nguyen. He says he screamed when he heard his movie called out at this morning's nomination ceremony.

"I'm completely ecstatic," he says during a conference call with reporters, "and dumbfounded as well."

It's the first Oscar nomination for Nguyen. His movie "Rebelle" is about child soldiers in Africa.

One of the film's producers Marie-Claude Poulin says this is amazing news and puts a spotlight on Quebec cinema.

"Last year at this time we weren't even finished the movie, and now we are nominated for an Oscar," she says. "It has been an incredible journey." 

The nomination also opens many doors, adds Nguyen, by bringing the film more visibility. It opens in U.S. theatres in March. 

Quebec actor Yan England has also grabbed a nod in the short film category for "Henry" and Toronto-based composer Mychael Danna is up for two Oscars, for best original song and best original score for his work on "The Life of Pi."

See the entire list of Oscar nominees.