Gary Oldman has won his first acting award in more than two decades for his role in Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. The actor was voted best British film star in a public vote at the annual Richard Attenborough Regional Film Awards (Rafas).
“This is the first prize for acting in a specific performance that I've received in over 20 years and that makes it all the more special,” Oldman said in a statement. The actor, who plays spymaster George Smiley, received his first Oscar nomination last week and is also up for best actor at the Baftas.
Oldman’s critics’ award was accepted by screenwriter Peter Straughan, who won the best screenplay prize with his late wife and writing partner Bridget O’Connor. O’Connor died before filming began, and the finished film is dedicated to her.
“I'm thrilled that Bridget and I have won this award - especially as it is associated with such a great filmmaker and voted for by so many critics and writers from all around the country,” Straughan said. “It means a great deal to me and is a wonderful tribute to my late wife's work.”
Established in 2006, the Rafas have 13 categories, with six voted for by regionally-based film critics and seven decided by public votes. The awards are dedicated to actor and filmmaker Lord Attenborough. Other winners included Tom Hiddleston as rising star, The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn as family film, and Robert Pattinson as film star.
