The Spirit Awards, in their 23rd year, honor low-budget American films based on such criteria as original, provocative subject matter and degree of independent financing. The budget threshold is $20 million -- about one-third of the average cost for a big-studio film, according to data for 2006 compiled by the Motion Picture Association of America.
Each year, a handful of winners also go on to take home an Oscar. Last year, they included "Little Miss Sunshine" co-star Alan Arkin, and the film's first-time writer, Michael Arndt.
While the Academy Awards are becoming more slanted towards independent movies with modest box office sales, only two actors were nominated for roles by both events this year: Blanchett and Page. Backstage, both actresses dodged questions about their Oscar prospects.
But one of the "Juno" producers described his film as "the comic relief" at the Oscars. Russell Smith said Diablo had the best chance of winning the original screenplay Oscar.
As for the famously elusive Dylan's reaction to "I'm Not There," Blanchett revealed backstage that actor Val Kilmer had spoken to Dylan about the movie. But she recalled that as Kilmer recently tried to whisper Dylan's reaction to her at a party, his voice was drowned out.
"I hope he (Dylan) liked it, I hope he's seen it," Blanchett said.
Other winners included Philip Seymour Hoffman in the male lead category for his role as a son dealing with an ailing father in "The Savages." The film's director, Tamara Jenkins, also won the screenplay award.
The Irish musical romance "Once" was named best foreign film. Its director, John Carney, recalled that the movie was made with "no permits, money or food."
Tang Wei arrives at the 2008 Film Independent's Spirit Awards in Santa Monica, California, on Saturday, February 23, 2008. Tang Wei had been nominated for best female lead for her role in "Lust, Caution." The award eventually went to "Juno" star Ellen Page.
(CRI/Agencies February 25, 2008)
