Doyle does it again – for himself

Published on Monday 30 March 2009 02:34

STARS of the British film world dominated the Jameson Empire Awards last night.

Hollywood actors joined small screen stars and household names from showbusiness at the glittering event in London.

Winners, chosen by readers of the film magazine Empire, included Christian Bale, James McAvoy and Danny Boyle, while Billy Bragg, Michael Sheen and Sean Bean were among the famous faces who attended.

Slumdog Millionaire and Trainspotting director Boyle won the outstanding contribution to British film award.

The award for Best British film did not go to Slumdog Millionaire, however, after fans voted instead for Guy Ritchie's latest gangster effort – Rocknrolla.

Meanwhile, British star Bale had a successful evening, claiming the best actor prize while The Dark Knight, in which he played Bruce Wayne/Batman, took the best film accolade.

He did not attend the event but told the audience how grateful he was via a video message from Los Angeles.

Empire also dedicated a special award to his co-star, the late Heath Ledger. The ceremony's host, Irish comedian Dara O'Briain, paid tribute to a "fine actor" and said his performance as the Joker stood out as a "brilliant" highlight of the past year.

The prize for best actress went to Helena Bonham Carter.

Other award-winners included Chris-topher Nolan for best director, Quantum of Solace for best thriller, Gemma Arterton as best newcomer and Russell Crowe as "actor of our lifetime" to mark the magazine's 20th birthday.

The Australian star of films such as Gladiator delivered a poetic acceptance speech from the podium at the Grosvenor House Hotel in Park Lane.