Keira Knightley wins at Empire film awards

Mar 10, 2008, 13:35 GMT

Keira Knightley - The Orange British Academy of Film and Television Arts Awards 2008 (BAFTA) - Outside Arrivals - Royal Opera House - London, England © Solarpix / PR Photos

Keira Knightley was victorious at the Empire film awards last night (09.03.08).

The 22-year-old star picked up the Best Actress gong for her performance in World War II drama 'Atonement' at the glitzy ceremony held at London's Grosvenor House hotel.

Keira, who was voted for by readers of the British film magazine, beat off stiff competition from Angelina Jolie, Emma Watson, Katherine Heigl and Cate Blanchett.

'Atonement' was the big winner on the night, with James McAvoy named Best Actor and the movie scooping Best British Film.

'The Bourne Ultimatum' was named Best Film, and star Matt Damon collected the accolade with director Paul Greengrass.

Matt said: "I want to say thank you to the readers of Empire because I don't get many awards and I don't get nominated for a lot of awards but when I do I tend to lose out to more younger, talented, better-looking guys like James McAvoy."

Scottish star Ewan McGregor was honoured with the Empire Icon award for his roles in films including 'Trainspotting', 'Star Wars' and 'Moulin Rouge'.

He told the audience: "I've been so lucky to work with a great many talented and passionate actors and directors and occasionally producers and so I'd like to thank you all. I'd like to thank everyone at Empire who have been so kind to me over the years and I'd like to thank your readers."

David Yates was named Best Director for 'Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix', while Sam Riley was named Best Newcomer for his portrayal of late Joy Division singer Ian Curtis in 'Control'.

Sony Ericsson Empire Awards 2008 full list of winners:

Best Actress - Keira Knightley, 'Atonement'

Best Actor - James McAvoy, 'Atonment'

Best British Film - 'Atonement'

Best Film - 'The Bourne Ultimatum'

Best Newcomer - Sam Riley, 'Control'

Best Director - David Yates, 'Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix'

Empire Icon Award - Ewan McGregor

Empire Inspiration Award - Guillermo del Toro

Best Sci-Fi/Fantasy - 'Stardust'

Best Horror - '28 Weeks Later'

Best Thriller - 'American Gangster'

Best Comedy - 'Hot Fuzz'

Sony Ericsson Soundtrack Award - 'Control'

Outstanding Contribution to British Film - Shane Meadows

Done in 60 Seconds (short film) - 'Titanic'

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