Sunday 8 June 2008

More awards for Oscar-tipped Atonement

Period drama 'Atonement' has picked up another host of awards in advance of the Oscars.
It received four prizes at the inaugural Richard Attenborough Film Awards: Best Film, Film-Maker of the year for director Joe Wright, Actor of the Year for James McAvoy and Screenwriter of the Year for Christopher Hampton.
'Atonement' star Keira Knightley missed out on the Best Actress award, which went instead to Cate Blanchett for 'Elizabeth: The Golden Age'.
Sam Riley was named Rising Star of the Year for his breakthrough performance as Joy Division frontman Ian Curtis in 'Control'.
At the ceremony, host Richard Attenborough said: "The last year has shown cinema to be both resilient and innovative, with large audiences eager to enjoy the unique theatrical experience."
He added: "It has also brought a superb crop of terrific films with compelling performances from both experienced and fresh talents. I offer my warmest congratulation to this admirable set of winners."
'Atonement', an adaptation of Ian McEwan's bestselling novel, has been nominated for seven Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Supporting Actress for 13-year-old Irish actress Saoirse Ronan.
It is in contention for 14 awards at the BAFTAs, which will take place on Sunday 10 February.