2009 Empire Movie Awards

The Dark Knight extends its awards streak overseas

BY EMIL TIEDEMANN

Although the Jameson-sponsored Empire Movie Awards were handed out on March 29th--better late than never--SiM has recently gotten ahold of the big winners of the 15th annual awards show, organized by Britain's top-selling film magazine Empire.

Voted on by the readers of the popular mag, which is also available here in North America, the Empires saw last year's The Dark Knight capture three major wins, including Best Film, Director (Christopher Nolan) and Actor (Christian Bale), while a special commemoration tribute honoured the late Heath Ledger, who played The Joker in the blockbuster.

Hosted at London's Grosvenor Hotel, the ceremony welcomed The Dark Knight executive producer Kevin De La Noy and actor Cillian Murphy (Scarecrow) in accepting the prestigious Best Film trophy on behalf of its filmmakers. "Thank you to Empire for your support up to and since release," stated De La Noy. "It was an extraordinary film to work on and thank you for this."

23-year-old actress Gemma Arterton was named Best Newcomer for her role in the James Bond flick Quantum of Solace (named Best Thriller), beating out the likes of Robert Pattinson (Twilight), Jim Sturgess (21), Hayley Atwell (The Duchess) and Toby Kebbell (RocknRolla). Below is the complete list of winners for the 2009 (Jameson) Empire Movie Awards.

Best Film: The Dark Knight
Best British Film: RocknRolla
Best Comedy: Son of Rambow
Best Horror: Eden Lake
Best Thriller: Quantum of Solace
Best Sci-fi/Superhero: Wanted
Best Director: Christopher Nolan (The Dark Knight)
Best Actor: Christian Bale (The Dark Knight)
Best Actress: Helena Bonham Carter (Sweeney Todd)
Best Newcomer: Gemma Arterton (Quantum of Solace)
Best Soundtrack: Mamma Mia!
Actor of Our Lifetime: Russell Crowe
Done in 60 Seconds Award: Jerry Maguire
Outstanding Contribution to British Film: Danny Boyle (Slumdog Millionaire)
Empire Icon: Viggo Mortensen