By Ryan Blay Daily TV/New Media Editor

Let's get one thing straight right away, there is no way in hell that Nickelodeon's "Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius" will take home this Oscar. In fact, even if it did actually merit some consideration (which it doesn't), it should be disqualified simply due to screenplay author Steve Oedekerk's involvement with "Patch Adams" and "Kung Pow: Enter the Fist," arguably the year's poorest film.

So what this category really comes down to is "Shrek" vs. "Monster's Inc.," DreamWorks vs. Pixar. These two films were both outstanding, with "Shrek" opening in May while "Monsters, Inc." entered the race in November. Both took home over $250 million in the U.S. Critics and moviegoers alike reacted well to each film.

Here's a quick recap for those who have forgotten Shrek (it has been 10 months, after all) or don't have the spectacular DVD. Shrek (the voice of Mike Myers, the best casting decision this year) is an ugly green ogre. With the help of a donkey voiced by Eddie Murphy, he risks his life to save Princess Fiona (Cameron Diaz) from a dragon and the evil Lord Farquaad. The film contains numerous jokes about fairy tale characters (including a classic scene with the Gingerbread Man) and Farquaad's "compensating" for something with his huge castle (a joke which young kids would never get, but a clever line for the adults and psychology majors in the audience).

As the audience gets a typical cartoon lesson (beauty is on the inside), the constant comedy of Murphy and company keeps the film from degenerating into a stale Disney retread. One of the only things holding this film back is its use of the Baha Men and Smash Mouth's "All Star" (this isn't "Mystery Men," guys, pick a fresh song).

As for Monsters Inc., James P. "Sulley" Sullivan (John Goodman) and Mike Wazowski (Billy Crystal) work at the titular company, which produces power by the shrieks of terrified little boys and girls. Sulley is the No. 1 producer of power, and Mike is his friend and assistant.

But a little girl accidentally wanders into the monster world, scaring Sulley and Mike (children are considered a contaminant). As they try to nudge the adorable Boo back into the human world, they grow attached to her, and slowly discover that all is not well at the power plant.

Pixar managed to create another blockbuster, following the "Toy Story" series and "A Bug's Life." Although the film did scare a few young children in theaters, there is nothing objectionable in the film to kids or adults.

And if you really need another reason to give "Monster's, Inc." the award, then here's two words; Steve Buscemi. Shamelessly overlooked for his captivating role in "Ghost World," Buscemi (along with Frank Oz and John Ratzenberger) voices a character in this fine film.

This battle between two heavyweights mirrors that of "A Beautiful Mind" vs. "Lord of the Rings," two films which could easily take home the Oscar with few strong objections.

In a tough decision, "Shrek" should win. It had more laughs, and the supporting characters were fleshed out slightly better. But if the Academy differs, I won't object.

However, because of the Pixar name, the later release date, and the presence of former Oscars host Crystal, "Monsters, Inc." will most likely snare the prize.