Artist stars asked to join Academy

The Oscar-winning and nominated stars of The Artist and The Help have been invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

The film academy announced its latest series of potential new members.

It includes best actor winner Jean Dujardin and supporting actress Octavia Spencer, along with nominees Berenice Bejo and Jessica Chastain.

Oscar-nominated Bridesmaids star Melissa McCarthy, Albert Nobbs supporting actress Janet McTeer, A Better Life star Demian Bichir and best director winner Michel Hazanavicius are also among the 176 filmmaking professionals asked to become academy members.

Academy president Tom Sherak called the invitees "some of the most talented, most passionate contributors to our industry".

Other actors on the list include McConaughey, Bryan Cranston, Kerry Washington, Jonah Hill and Andy Serkis.