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Irish movie Wolfwalkers has been nominated for an Oscar in the Animated Feature category.

Wolfwalkers tells the story of a young apprentice hunter and her father as they journey to Ireland to help wipe out the last wolf pack.

But everything changes when she befriends a free-spirited girl from a mysterious tribe rumoured to transform into wolves by night.

Speaking to RTE Radio's News at One, Ross Stewart, one of the directors of WolfWalkers, said: "It's a bit of a relief. There were so many people who had fingers crossed for us, so it's a relief now that we have the nomination.

Stewart added that they couldn't be more appreciative for all of the support and well-wishes they have received.

"That's one of the great things about Ireland, if someone is doing great in a sport or in the arts, the whole nation gets behind them and cheers them on. It's really great.

"Especially in Kilkenny too because Kilkenny has won a lot of All-Irelands and is really good at hurling. Every time we get a nomination they keep on going 'Ah, this time you'll win it lads,'" he laughed.

Wolfwalkers is up against Onward, Over the Moon, A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon, and Soul.

It was made by Kilkenny's Cartoon Saloon and Luxembourg's Melusine Productions.

Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) and RTÉ all participated in its production.