Hallelujah! Not that we're smug or anything, but after weeks of monsoon-level rain drenching London's film events, we can report that it Did Not Rain for the 11th Sony Ericsson Empire Awards. Not that we're smug or anything.
Not that the Hilton London Metropole wouldn’t have made a rather fantastic Ark for the A-list to hide in, but the smiles and coifs sashaying down the green carpet were all the larger thanks to the relief of not having to splash around all evening.
Neil Marshall, whose pot-holing horror The Descent is nominated for Best Horror, beamed as much as a man should when shepherding four lovely ladies down the green carpet, while pop tartlet Will Young and Stoned's Leo Gregory schmoozed their way along with dazzling grins. Jason Isaacs and hot stuff Rufus Sewell looked positively edible, and unless Empire gets a sandwich sometime soon, that theory will probably be tested.
Best British Movie nominee Pride And Prejudice may have been lacking its leading lady, but made up for it by bringing the rest of the cast, while supermodel Lily Cole upped the style stakes, and Kidulthood's Jamie Winston looked as glamorous as her dad Ray looks hard. "It's amazing that the readers vote for the winner", she said. "It's so great to be surrounded by terrific actors". The Harry Potter kids all turned up looking starry - Daniel Radcliffe showing off his T-shirt and blazer combo like a regular model. You go, Radcliffe!
Meanwhile hardcore Bond fans trembled as Roger Moore and his lovely lady wife strolled nonchalantly up the green carpet. He was typically dry about presenting old mate Tony Curtis with tonight's Lifetime Achievement Award. "I didn't know was doing it; I thought it was for me". Smile. "Still, I'm glad to be here - it's great to see old friends."
Star Wars alumn Anthony Daniels was looking remarkably dapper, although sadly he came in black tie rather than gold kettle-suit. Best Actress Thandie Newton looked fabulous, even after a month of awards parties (and complimented Empires' dress - what a nice lady!). She was delighted to be nominated, and the last time Empire saw her, she was rapidly making friends with Johnny Vegas. That's a dangerous path, miss, hope you can stand the booze!
Nick Park and Steve Box were thrilled after Wallace And Gromit collected Best Animated Feature at the Oscars last week, but a little more cautious about their chances tonight. "We're up against so many good, proper films," said Nick "We haven't bought any bow-ties this time!”
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