TONIGHT (Sunday) is the moment of truth for some of Hollywood's most glittering stars, as the 81st Academy Awards ceremony kicks off in Hollywood. And Times Territory is being represented too. Scott Cooper, who graduated with a first class honours in digital

TONIGHT (Sunday) is the moment of truth for some of Hollywood's most glittering stars, as the 81st Academy Awards ceremony kicks off in Hollywood.

And Times Territory is being represented too.

Scott Cooper, who graduated with a first class honours in digital animation in 2005, worked as a technical director of visual effects for the hit Batman movie The Dark Knight.

The film, starring Christian Bale and the late Heath Ledger, has been nominated for eight Oscars - one for visual effects.

His job involved "cloth simulation"; developing computer techniques to ensure Batman's black cape looked convincing.

He has previously worked on two Harry Potter films and the pre-historic epic 10,000 BC.

Sol Rogers, one of Scott's former lecturers at the university, said: "Scott always worked very hard and was very self motivated. He always had a drive to work in the visual effects industry.

"During his three years on the degree, he produced two short films on his own which both won awards within the university for their quality.

"I hope he does well in the future."

Another former University of Hertfordshire student also worked on The Dark Knight.

Nick Bonathan was part of the movie's special effects team, creating the film's stunt sequences, as well as Batman's motorcycle, the Batpod.

The ceremony begins on Monday morning, 1.30am GMT.