European Film Awards

New channel ITV3 tonight had coverage of the recent European Film Awards, now in their 17th year and held in Barcelona. Not widely held as one of the major awards ceremonies, it is however very interesting to see the contrast between how the Americans and the Europeans do things. Shody at best in its presentation, the ceremony barely avoided embarassment, showcasing some of Europe's more eccentric "stars" - good job the quality of films outshone the speeches. Penelope Cruz won an award for best European actress, which was not to be confused with the best actress nod, which went to Imelda Staunton, to the biggest ovation of the night, for her turn in Mike Leigh's Vera Drake - haven't seen this film yet, but just know it is going to blow me away. Other awards included a lifetime acheivement award for Liv Ullman, who was looking stunning; what a wonderful ambassador for film she has been. Kx