British war epic Atonement was the big winner at the Empire Awards - scoring the best film nod, as well as best actor and actress wins for James McAvoy (pic) and Keira Knightley.
It marked a triumphant night for the WWII set film following its poor performance at this year's Academy Awards. It was expected earlier this year that the film would be heavily represented at the Oscars, but only received two major noms - best film and best supporting actress for Saoirse Ronan - losing both.
Atonement didn't have it all its own way at the London ceremony however - Ronan missed out again after she was beaten to the best newcomer gong by Sam Riley for his performance as Joy Division frontman Ian Curtis in Control. The music biopic also won the best soundtrack prize.
David Yates was named best director for his work on the Harry Potter film The Order of the Phoenix, while filmmaker Shane Meadows was honoured with the outstanding contribution to British Film award. His last film This Is England was met with critical and commercial acclaim.
Trainspotting star Ewan McGregor won the Empire Icon award
The full list of winners:
Best Newcomer
Sam Riley (Control)
Best Comedy
Best Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Stardust
Best Horror
Best Thriller
The Sony Ericsson Soundtrack Award
Control
Best British Film
Atonement
Best Actress
Keira Knightley (Atonement)
Best Actor
James McAvoy (Atonement)
Best Director
David Yates (Harry Potter And The Order Of The Phoenix)
Best Film
Done In 60 Seconds
Titanic
Empire Inspiration Award
Guillermo Del Toro
Outstanding Contribution To British Film
Empire Icon