'Atonement' earns 14 BAFTA nods

LONDON , Jan. 16 (UPI) -- The period drama "Atonement" led the field when nominations for the British Academy of Film and Television Arts Awards were announced Wednesday.

"Atonement" was nominated for best film and best British film, while director Joe Wright, screenwriter Christopher Hampton, lead actor James McAvoy, lead actress Keira Knightley, supporting actress Saoirse Ronan, composer Dario Marianelli and cinematographer Seamus McGarvey all earned nods, as well.

The film also was shortlisted for awards in editing, sound, makeup and hair, costumes and production design.

Vying with "Atonement" for the overall film BAFTA will be "American Gangster," "The Lives of Others," "No Country for Old Men" and "There Will Be Blood."

In the running for best British film are "Atonement," "The Bourne Ultimatum," "Control," "Eastern Promises" and "This is England."

McAvoy will compete against George Clooney, Daniel Day-Lewis, Viggo Mortensen and the late Ulrich Muhe in the lead actor category, while Knightley will attempt to fend off Cate Blanchett, Julie Christie, Marion Cotillard and Ellen Page for the lead actress honor.

The BAFTAs are set to be handed out Feb. 10 at the Royal Opera House in London's Covent Garden.

The event will be presided over by Jonathan Ross.