RYAN SEES HIS LATEST OEUVRE HONOURED IN NEW YORK

Ryan Gosling was on hand to see his latest flick Half Nelson scoop three of the top gongs at the Gotham Awards in New York this week. The rising Canadian star has been widely praised for his contribution to the movie, in which he stars as a drug-addicted teacher who forms a special bond with one of his students. Director Ryan Fleck praised the 26-year-old actor's quiet intensity, saying his "potential to erupt at any moment" was thrilling to watch. And on Wednesday Ryan joined a roll call of talent - including his co-star Shareeka Epps, who collected a best breakthrough actor trophy - to see the production presented with best film and best director honours. The Gotham Awards, which recognise low budget, independent films, also honoured Kate Winslet and Edward Norton. Tim Robbins received a humanitarian tribute, while the eclectic cast of Babel, starring Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett, won best ensemble.Half Nelson, which was produced on a budget of £500,000, beat off stiff competition from Sofia Coppola's revolutionary romp Marie Antoinette and Martin Scorcese's £46-million The Departed.

Source: Hello Magazine Canada.