Sir Michael Caine, the 76-year-old star – who has previously received Best Supporting Actor Academy Awards for 1986 film 'Hannah and Her Sisters' and 1999's 'The Cider House Rules' – thinks his only hope of being honoured again is in a year of low standards.

Speaking at the European premiere of his new movie 'Harry Brown' in London's Leicester Square last night (10.11.09), he told BANG Showbiz: "I've got a couple of Oscars and I've been nominated nine times but I've lost seven. There are all sorts of different circumstances and you also want a duff year.

"My first nomination was 'Alfie' and the competition was Paul Schofield in 'A Man For All Seasons'. I didn't stand a chance. The second time was 'Sleuth' and the competition was Marlon Brando in 'The Godfather'.

"All I'm waiting for is a c**p year so I can get in."

'Quantum of Solace' star Gemma Arterton, socialite Tamara Ecclestone and artist Tracey Emin were among the famous faces who braved the rain to walk the red carpet at the premiere.

Michael and Jack Nicholson are the only male actors to have been Oscar-nominated in every decade of their career. (c) BANG