'Silver Linings Playbook' sweeps the Independent Spirit Awards

The last award ceremony before the 85th Academy Awards proved rewarding for 'Silver Linings Playbook.'

The Independent Spirit Awards which specifically recognises independent productions saw David O. Russell's bittersweet rom com win in four categories including Best Picture, Best Director for David O. Russell, Best Actress for Jennifer Lawrence, and Best Screenplay for Russell.

The awards were hosted by Andy Samberg on the beach in Santa Monica on Saturday night.

Other winners at the ceremony included 'The Sessions' which won the Best Actor prize for John Hawkes and Best Suporting Actress for Helen Hunt.

Meanwhile Matthew McConaughey won one of his two nominations as Best Supporting Actor in 'Magic Mike'. McConaughey joked in his acceptance speech, "I had to drop my drawers to win an award."

'Beasts Of The Southern Wild' which was tipped as favourite only won the best cinematography for Ben Richardson while Michael Haneke's 'Amour' was named Best International Film.