THE KING’S SPEECH BIG WINNER AT U.K.’S BAFTAS

The King’s Speech dominated Sunday night’s BAFTA awards, Britain’s equivalent of the Oscars. The film, which also is touted as a probable big winner at the Oscars in two weeks, received seven awards, including best film and best British film. Colin Firth was presented the leading actor award for his performance as the stammering King George VI and Geoffrey Rush received the supporting actor award for his performance as the king’s speech therapist. Helena Bonham Carter was named best supporting actress for her role as the king’s consort, Queen Elizabeth. David Seidler took home the award for best original screenplay. The Social Network, which is also a leading Oscar contender, received awards for director David Fincher and screenwriter Aaron Sorkin in the adapted screenplay category. Natalie Portman was named best actress for her role as the psychotic ballerina in Black Swan. The Harry Potter films received a special award for their contribution to British film. Among those on hand to receive it was Harry Potter creator J.K. Rowling, who remarked: “It is very strange to look back after seven films and remember how wary I was of putting Harry on the big screen. I kept saying no. But being involved with these films has been one of the best experiences of my life.”

THE WINNERS

Best film The King’s Speech

Best director David Fincher, The Social Network

Best actor Colin Firth, The King’s Speech

Best actress Natalie Portman, Black Swan

Adapted screenplay Aaron Sorkin, The Social Network</p>

Original screenplay David Seidler, The King’s Speech

Fellowship Christopher Lee

Cinematography Roger Deakins, True Grit

Animated film Toy Story 3

Supporting actor Geoffrey Rush, The King’s Speech

Supporting actress Helena Bonham Carter, The King’s Speech

Outstanding British film The King’s Speech

Outstanding debut Chris Morris, Four Lions

Film not in the English language The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo

Short film Until The River Runs Red