Pictures of the Best Actor Nominees at the Academy Awards Nominees Lunch in Beverly Hills

Colin Firth, James Franco, Mark Ruffalo, Javier Bardem, Jeff Bridges, and Jesse Eisenberg were among the best actor nominees who dressed up for yesterday's Academy Awards Nominees Luncheon in Beverly Hills. The men joined the female contenders for a celebratory afternoon, but before sitting down for the meal, they stopped by the interview room to chat with the press. James Franco talked about what he and Anne Hathaway will bring to the table as cohosts at this year's ceremony, while Jesse Eisenberg sang the praises of Mark Zuckerberg, whom he met for the first time earlier this month. Javier, who was spotted admiring Natalie Portman's engagement ring and congratulating her inside the luncheon, said he felt "protected" by his circle of famous friends and fans. While this year's competition in both the leading and supporting categories is stiff, Jeff said he thinks Colin will take home the award for best actor in a leading role for his work in The King's Speech.