New York Film Critics hail 'Brokeback'

NEW YORK, Jan. 9 (UPI) -- "Brokeback Mountain" was the big winner at the New York Film Critics Circle's 71st annual awards gala.

"Brokeback" was named Best Picture Sunday night, Ang Lee won Best Director and Heath Ledger won Best Actor, the New York Post reported Monday.

Reese Witherspoon received Best Actress kudos for her portrayal of June Carter Cash in "Walk in the Line" and Maria Bello won Best Supporting Actress for "A History of Violence."

"Capote" director Bennett Miller was honored by the group with its Best First Film Award.