Often the independent fare celebrated by the Film Indendent Spirit Awards has been forgotten or unseen by the voting members of the Academy. But that’s not to say that the two have never been in sync. In the final part of this blog series, we highlight our favorite Spirit Award-winning films that also snagged Oscars. Little Miss Sunshine (2007) Directors: Valerie Faris and Jonathan Dayton Stars: Toni Collette, Greg Kinnear, Alan Arkin Spirit Award Winner: Best Feature, Best Director, Best First Screenplay, Best Supporting Male Where You Can Watch It: DVD Independent sweethearts Faris and Dayton’s feature debut was a surprise success for the married couple. The small film with a big heart gained awards-season momentum after audiences applauded it and word of mouth contributed to four Academy Award nominations. The road comedy features an unforgettable dance scene with breakthrough performer Abigail Breslin and Spirit Award Winner Alan Arkin, who also won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. Michael Arndt also won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. 12 Years A Slave (2013) Director: Steve McQueen Stars: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Lupita Nyong’o, Michael Fassbender Spirit Award Winner: Best Feature, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Supporting Female, Best Cinematography Where You Can Watch It: DVD Last year, all voters were in agreement that Steve McQueen’s powerful feature was indeed the Best Picture of the year. Based on the true story of Solomon Northup, this heart-wrenching drama introduced audiences to a brave and inspirational man. While it featured many memorable performances, it was the acting debut of Lupita Nyong’o that truly shined, earning her a win for Best Supporting Actress at the Oscars and pretty much every other award show. Chris Lombardi / Film Independent Blogger
