It's coming to that time of year again when hosts of fresh, new, original talent are gathered under one roof to celebrate the best of the best in independent film at the 11th annual British Independent Film Awards.

Hosted by James Nesbit, the much anticipated event looks set to be the best in years. One stand out film from this year's bunch is 'Hunger' by Steve McQueen (pictured above); Turner Prize winner McQueen is up for 4 awards whilst his film features in 4 other award categories from best actor to best cinematography.

The Ceremony's Growth

Since the first awards event in 1998 the British Independent Film Awards have helped to launch not just careers of successful filmmakers but also successful acclaimed films. BIFA director Johanna von Fischer says; "We are delighted to be able to highlight such an eclectic range of new British film talent this year with the pre-nomination debut director category being the most competitive BIFA has ever had. We are also proud to honour two outstanding British acting talents and careers with The Richard Harris and The Variety Awards."

Nominations

The films receiving the most nominations are 'Hunger' and Martin McDonagh's, 'In Bruges', locked together on seven nominations each. 'Slumdog Millionaire' by Danny Boyle (pictured above) follows with six, 'Shifty' then follows with five nominations, 'Somers Town', 'Son of Rambow' and 'The Duchess' hold four nominations each. An unprecedented number of twenty-nine other nominated films throughout the categories prove that there is an ever widening pot of talent in British independent filmmaking.

This year's event is gathering pace and with the wealth of talent, great films, egos and competitiveness on show, this year's British Independent Film Awards is definitely one not to be missed.

www.bifa.org.uk/

Written by Charlie