Angelina Jolie Calls Oscar Nomination a "Privilege Beyond Any Expectation"

Angelina Jolie and lover Brad Pitt both get the nod from the Big O. The Academy Awards have nominated Jolie in the best actress category in Changeling, while Kung Fu Panda is up for best animated feature film. Jolie describes her nod as a "privilege beyond any expectation," Usmagazine.com reports.

"Working with Clint Eastwood was a reward in itself that will last me a lifetime," she said about the film's director. "It has been an exceptional year for acting, and I am honored to be in the company of these talented actors whose performances all deserve this recognition."

The stunning actress adds: "I am also happy that Kung Fu Panda was noticed by the Academy and proud to be a part of a film my entire family loves so much."

And as Pitt continues to promote his best picture nominee, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, he said being nominated for best actor "is a great honor for the movie."

"I'm especially happy for [best director nominee] David Fincher," Pitt said, "for without him there would be no Ben Button."

The 81st Academy Awards air on ABC, Sunday, Feb. 22.