The real Erin Brockovich

But during the following eight months, many people realised just how accomplished Soderbergh's film was.

The five Oscar nominations for Erin Brockovich are just the latest chapter in the remarkable life story of its heroine.

The twice-divorced mother of three who helped bring one of America's biggest corporations to its knees.

In 1993, the real-life Erin was the driving force in a court case against power giants PG&E that led to a record-breaking payout of $333m (£229m) - the largest settlement ever paid in a direct-action lawsuit in US history.

The fact that Brockovich was not a lawyer and had no formal education or experience as a law clerk or paralegal only made her victory more impressive.

All of which made her story an ideal reason for director Steven Soderbergh to reteam with producers Dany DeVito, Michael Shamberg and Stacey Sher for the first time since their hit crime caper Out of Sight.

Much of its success lies with Julia Roberts' performance as Erin, a role that perfectly plays to her strengths as an actress and comedienne.

She also bears a striking resemblance to the real Brockovich, who has a brief cameo in the film as a waitress named Julia.

Roberts, nominated twice before for Steel Magnolias and Pretty Woman, is considered the clear favourite to walk home with the best actress trophy on Oscar night.

The 35-year-old actress has already picked up a Golden Globe award for her work on the film, and few doubt she will go home empty-handed on 25 March.