Whitaker wins Oscar for Idi Amin portrayal

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 25 (UPI) -- Forest Whitaker, who played despot Idi Amin in "The Last King of Scotland," won the best actor Oscar Sunday at the Academy Awards in Los Angeles.

Recalling watching movies from the backseat of the family car at the drive-in, Whitaker said acting "wasn't in my reality" when he was a young boy.

He said winning the Academy Award proves that it is possible to achieve dreams.

Whitaker thanked the people of Uganda and his ancestors "who continue to guide my steps."