LOS ANGELES, Nov. 23 (UPI) -- Oscar-winning actress Marisa Tomei will announce nominees for the 20th Independent Spirit Awards, organizers said Tuesday.
Tomei will announce nominees for four of the 14 award categories in a live appearance on the "The Early Show" on CBS on Nov. 30. Dawn Hudson, executive director of IFP/Los Angeles, said the decision by CBS to air the announcement live illustrates growing public awareness and acceptance of Hollywood's independent film movement.
"We are thrilled to have this kind of support from CBS News for independent films," Hudson said, "it's a sign of how deep the general public's interest is in films that focus on character, story and original subjects."
Tomei will announce nominees for Best Male Lead, Female Lead, First Feature and Screenplay. The remainder of the nominees -- including Best Feature, Director, Supporting Male and Supporting Female -- will be announced by Dennis Quaid and Selma Blair later in the day in Beverly Hills, Calif.
The 20th IFP Independent Spirit Awards will be presented on Feb. 26, 2005, in ceremonies in Santa Monica, to be televised live on the Independent Film Channel.
