Brooklyn triumphs at Evening Standard Awards

Period drama Brooklyn triumphed at the Evening Standard British Film Awards by landing the Best Film honor on Sunday night (07Feb16).

The Saoirse Ronan-led movie beat out the likes of 45 Years, High-Rise, and The Lobster for the top prize at the London ceremony, which recognizes the best in British and Irish talent.

Following his Screen Actors Guild Awards win last weekend (30Jan16), Idris Elba was named Best Actor for his role as a rebel commander in Beasts of No Nation, while Dame Maggie Smith was given the Best Actress trophy for The Lady in the Van.

Other winners included Emma Thompson (Comedy Award - The Legend of Barney Thomson), Maisie Williams (Rising Star - The Falling), and Room writer Emma Donaghue (Best Screenplay).

Meanwhile, Amy Winehouse film Amy landed another accolade for Best Documentary, Star Wars: The Force Awakens was named Blockbuster of the Year, 45 Years was given the Editor's Award, and actor and author Alan Bennett was recognized for his achievements in film with the Outstanding Contribution prize.

The awards, at the BBC's former Television Center in London, were hosted by TV presenter Simon Amstell.