A film about Irishwoman Philomena Lee picked up four nominations at the Bafta award announcement today, including best film.

Philomena, which tells the true story of the Irish mother’s search for the son she was forced to give up for adoption in Ireland, was also nominated for outstanding British film, adapted screenplay and leading actress for Judi Dench.

These were among the nominations announced today at Bafta’s HQ in central London by Hobbit star Luke Evans and Helen McCrory from the Harry Potter films.

Irish-German actor Michael Fassbender was also nominated for his role in 12 Years a Slave. This film was also in the best film catergory with American Hustle, Captain Phillips and Gravity.

“I’m so thrilled and honoured to be nominated. I am very proud to be a part of this film and want to thank Bafta for all the support they have shown us,” Mr Fassbender said in a statement..

Gravity, starring Sandra Bullock, received 11 nominations. 12 Years a Slave and American Hustle were each nominated in ten categories.

Twelve Years A Slave star Chiwetel Ejiofor has been nominated for the best actor Bafta. The film’s director Steve McQueen was also recognised with a nomination. McQueen’s tale of slavery in America’s deep south is heavily tipped to do well at this year’s awards season.

Ejiofor faces competition for the leading actor gong from veteran Bruce Dern for his role in Nebraska and Hollywood stars Christian Bale, Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks.

Judi Dench will face competition for the leading actress award for her role in Philomena along with American Hustle’s Amy Adams, Cate Blanchett, Emma Thompson and Sandra Bullock.

Captain Phillips has nine nominations. Behind the Candelabra and Saving Mr. Banks which are each nominated five times.

Also in the best supporting actor category alongside Michael Fassbender were Bradley Cooper and Matt Damon .

The best supporting actress category sees Jennifer Lawrence and Julia Roberts nominated along with Sally Hawkins for her role in Woody Allen’s Blue Jasmine and 12 Years A Slave star Lupita Nyong’o. Also nominated was American chatshow host Oprah Winfrey for best supporting actress for her role in The Butler.

McQueen faces competition for the best director award from established names including Paul Greengrass and Martin Scorsese.

The event, formally known as the EE British Academy Film Awards, is held in London on Sunday February 16th.

Additional reporting PA