It was looking a lot like the Oscars Saturday at the Film Independent Spirit Awards –which have become less independent and more studio-centric in recent years.
Also up for best picture at the Academy Awards, and considered to be the front runner, “Birdman” was the big winner at the Spirits, taking the best feature prize and the male lead trophy for Michael Keaton.
Richard Linklater was awarded the best director trophy for his epic coming of age drama “Boyhood,” filmed over a 12-year period. Actress Patricia Arquette, as expected, accepted the supporting actress trophy for her role in the film.
Two other actors also considered locks for the Oscars were awarded Spirits for their work: supporting actor J.K. Simmons of “Whiplash” and Julianne Moore of “Still Alice.”
Another Oscar front runner, “Citizenfour,” took the prize for best documentary. Laura Poitras’ film got up close and personal with Edward Snowden, giving audiences insight into his thinking in releasing classified information about government surveillance.
Dan Gilroy won the honor for best first feature for “Nightcrawler,” and also took the prize for its screenplay – for which he’s also Oscar nominated.
The ceremony was held under a tent at Santa Monica beach and was hosted this year by Fred Armisen and Kristen Bell.
