'Precious' sweeps Spirit awards
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Gritty drama "Precious" swept the top honors at the Spirit Awards here Friday, the movie industry's annual salute to the best of independent film.
The Oscar-nominated film about an obese, illiterate, abused teenager in Harlem won four top honors, including best picture, best director, best actress and best supporting actor.
Lee Daniels - who is also nominated for best director at Sunday's 82nd Academy Awards - was overcome by emotion after collecting his award.
"Last year I was a juror at these awards and I was editing 'Precious'," Daniels told the audience. "It's a good thing, a really good thing."
The film's two female stars, Gabourey Sidibe and Mo'Nique took the best actress and supporting actress awards.
Sidibe, who will be vying for honors in Sunday's best actress race at the Oscars, thanked her fellow cast for easing her through her debut film.
"I'm so excited. I'm kind of a dork," Sidibe said. "Thank you to my fellow actors who taught me how to act. I showed up not knowing anything."
Comedian Mo'Nique, who is the odds on favorite to repeat her victory at the Oscars on Sunday after a virtual clean sweep at earlier awards shows this year, won for her chilling portrayal of an abusive parent.
"I'm tickled," Mo'Nique said, paying tribute to the film's star Sidibe. "Gabby you are truly a special gift to the universe baby," Mo'Nique said.
Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days
New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled
Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days
New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled
Another heavy Oscars favorite, Jeff Bridges, picked up the best actor prize for his performance as an alcoholic country singer struggling to rebuild his career in "Crazy Heart."
Bridges, 60, who has already won at the Golden Globes and Screen Actors Guild Awards, thanked the film's writer-director Scott Cooper.
"Crazy Heart is so dear to me, it's really a gem of an independent film," Bridges said. "What makes these gems shine is passion."
The night's other main acting award, best supporting actor, went to Woody Harrelson for his portrayal of a US army officer whose job is to inform next of kin of bereavements in "The Messenger."
British movie "An Education" took best foreign film.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments