2008 Gotham Independent Film Awards

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2008 Gotham Independent Film Awards

The 2008 Gotham Independent Film Awards honored the best in independent film as well as honoring actress Penelope Cruz, filmmakers Gus Van Sant and Melvin Van Peebles, and HBO documentary chief Sheila Nevins for their contributions to the field.

Actor Dennis Hopper arrives for the 18th annual Gotham Independent Film Awards at Cipriani Wall Street on Dec. 2, 2008, in New York.

Perhaps inspired by his mind-bending films, actress Rachel Weisz arrives with director Darren Aronofsky.

Filmmaker Melvin Van Peebles looks dapper to receive his Tribute Award. "Melvin was independent before there even was such a thing as independent film," wrote IFP, the nonprofit group that grants the awards.

Actress Amy Adams adds some sparkle to the red carpet.

Actress Patricia Clarkson proves that 50 (OK, 48) is the new 35.

HOW LONG BEFORE THEY NOTICE THAT THESE SUNGLASSES ARE HOLDING MY FACE TOGETHER? Actor Mickey Rourke attends the 18th Annual Gotham Independent Film Awards at Cipriani Wall Street in New York.

Actress Evan Rachel Wood dons a little old-school glam.

AH, SCARY HAIR!! (MAY I INTRODUCE YOU TO BEN KINGSLEY?)Actor Ethan Hawke, left, and wife Ryan Shawhughes attend the 18th Annual Gotham Independent Film Awards in New York.

Actor Terrence Howard performs during the awards show.

I DON'T KNOW WHAT IT IS BUT BALD HEADS TURN ME ON..Actress Penelope Cruz, receives her award from actor Sir Ben Kingsley at the 18th Annual Gotham Independent Film Awards at Cipriani Wall Street in New York.

Actor Sean Penn presents a Tribute Award to Gus Van Sant, director of "My Own Private Idaho," "Good Will Hunting" and "Elephant," among others.

Van Sant accepts his honor. Of him, IFP wrote: "Gus is that rare director who has achieved a steady balance between his independent roots and mainstream filmmaking. ..."

Documentary film producer Sheila Nevins recieves her Tribute Award. "Her work has not only changed the documentary landscape, it's opened minds and spurred change," IFP wrote of the head of HBO's documentary division.

Actresses Marisa Tomei (left) and Michelle Williams present an award. "Frozen River" won for best feature.

Actress Melissa Leo (left) receives her breakthrough Actor award from presenter Debra Winger. Leo was honored for her role in "Frozen River."

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Actor Dennis Hopper arrives for the 18th annual Gotham Independent Film Awards at Cipriani Wall Street on Dec. 2, 2008, in New York.

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