LOS ANGELES: Gritty historical drama “12 Years a Slave” and dark comedy “Nebraska” led the nominees for the Independent Spirit Awards on Tuesday, both scoring nods in the best feature, best director and best acting categories.
“12 Years a Slave,” a harrowing tale of a free black man sold into slavery, landed seven nominations including British-born filmmaker Steve McQueen for best director, actor Chiwetel Ejiofor for best male lead and newcomer actress Lupita Nyong’o for best supporting female.–Reuters