Best picture Oscar field is at 307

A total of 307 feature films qualified for consideration for the Oscar for best picture of 2006, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences said Friday.

To be eligible for consideration for the 79th Academy Awards, feature films have until the end of the year to open in a commercial motion picture theater in Los Angeles County and begin a minimum run of seven consecutive days, according to the academy.

Nominations will be announced Jan. 23.