"Birdman" Surprises Everyone By Beating "Boyhood" for Best Picture at the Gotham Awards

Michael Keaton

There were more than a few surprises that came out of tonight's Gotham Awards. Hosted by Uma Thurman, the show gave out awards to the best of independent cinema. While many were expecting Boyhood to come away with all of the top prizes, the film didn't do so well. Instead, a lot of surprising moments came and Boyhood only came away with one win. Following the jump is a list of all of the nominations as well as a few thoughts on the overall winners.

A Look at the 2015 Spirit Award Nominations

Scene from Birdman

Coming off of the heels of the Gotham Awards a few weeks ago, the Independent Spirit Awards has officially released its nominations. Serving as the premiere award for independent cinema, the award has come to be just as much about recognizing smaller films as it is indicating potential Oscar nominees with last year's winners practically matching the Academy Awards. Still, it is another impressive year with a lot of great films in tow. What were some of the surprises and what are the chances that each film will have of winning? Read more after the jump.

"Boyhood" and "Birdman" Lead This Year's Gotham Awards Nominations

Left to right: Ellar Coltrane, Ethan Hawke and Lorelai Linklater in Boyhood

Today marked the release of the nominees for the Gotham Independent Film Awards. Much like The Spirit Awards, it sets out to recognize the big talents in independent cinema with awards honoring acting, directing, and breakout achievements. One of the noteworthy reasons that I bring it up is that many of them have already been praised here on The Oscar Buzz. While there's a chance that a few may not make it further into the race, it is a welcomed sign to see so many great films making it in a very impressive year for film. The following is a look at the nominees as well as varying thoughts on the selections as well as back links to various articles.

The "Dear White People" Teaser Trailer is Ready for You to Reevaluate "Gremlins" and Tyler Perry

When I attended my first Sundance this past January, there was one film that stood out. It was a film that grabbed my attention and refused to let go. Mixing satire with humor and profound depth, director Justin Simien's debut Dear White People came out as a poignant, important film. As a result, I have been eagerly awaiting any potential news of the film's eventual distribution and release. Even if the film isn't likely to win an Oscar (though I wish I could be proven wrong), it not only shown the emergence of a talented new cinematic voice, but spoke to race relations in America in ways that have clarity. The incessant comparisons to Do the Right Thing are applicable. With the premiere of the teaser trailer, I now begin the more optimistic phase of my support as I eagerly await the October 17 release date.