New Horizons founder Roger Corman has mentored hundreds of Hollywood's brightest stars and most talented artists over his illustrious career. Many have gone on to notable carrers of their own. This year, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has recognized several of our favorite New Horizons alumni with Oscar nominations.

Sandra Bullock is nominated for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role, but her talent was obvious much earlier in her career. Be sure to check out Sandra Bullock in her first feature role in the stirring drama Fire on the Amazon. Her talent is on full display in her captivating performance as a crusading journalist out to save the rain forest from destruction. Shot on location in South America, the natural scenery and Bullock's performance make Fire on the Amazon a beautiful film for the ages.

We also congratulate alum James Cameron for the success and nominations received for his film Avatar. Before Avatar, Titanic or The Terminator, James Cameron got his start in hollywood on the New Horizons classic Battle Beyond the Stars. If you liked the look of Avatar, you'll love the universe Cameron designed for Battle Beyond the Stars. It's a true sci-fi classic full of great performances and a gripping screenplay written by previous Academy Award nominee John Sayles.

Composer James Horner also got his start with New Horizons on Battle Beyond the Stars and has been recognized by the Academy this year for his work on Avatar. Horner has become known for the epic scale of his scores with compelling arrangement and bold orchestration. His talent is in full display in Battle Beyond the Stars where you'll be amazed by the stirring overture, lyrical themes and dramatic music throughout.

And, this year, Roger Corman himself received an Academy Award recognizing his legacy as a pathbreaking filmmaker, producer and mentor.