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ANIMATION Ireland last week published its pre-Budget submission which included a call for a change to the terms of the Irish Film Board to allow support for animated productions. And the animation sector is well deserving of greater support having produced several critically acclaimed feature-length productions. One of the most exiting new offerings is from Kilkenny’s Cartoon Saloon. The Breadwinner, about the struggles of an Afghan girl, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival last month and has been tipped for Oscar success. Entertainment site The Wrap said it was “a beautifully rendered work of animation that tells a powerful story, it is a standout in the field and would certainly have been a favourite to land a nomination at any point over the last decade”. However, the film, which is directed by Nora Twomey and counts actor Angelina Jolie as executive producer, could fall foul of new Academy Awards rules which may favour high-profile films. In any case, the industry hopes to be in the picture for some good news on Tuesday.