LA critics tip ‘McCann film’ star for Oscar

Amy Ryan (pictured), the star of a film that was withdrawn from distribution in Europe by director Ben Affleck because of the parallels with the real-life case of Madeleine McCann, has been named best supporting actress by the Los Angeles Film Critics Association. The LA critics, along with the New York film critics who announce their awards later today, traditionally have a strong influence on the Oscars which are presented in February.

In Gone Baby Gone Ryan (pictured) plays the mother of a four-year-old who goes missing in Boston. Affleck's directorial debut was set for release in Britain this month but is now scheduled for April 18. Ryan also won the award for her role in Sidney Lumet's film Before The Devil Knows You're Dead, which stars Philip Seymour Hoffman and Marisa Tomei.

Best known as a stage actress, Ryan beat Cate Blanchett, who was runner-up for her portrayal of Bob Dylan in I'm Not There. Ryan is a two-time Tony nominee for Broadway performances in Uncle Vanya and A Streetcar Named Desire.

The LA critics named Daniel Day-Lewis best actor for his role in There Will Be Blood, which was also named best film. French star Marion Cotillard – a hot contender for best actress Oscar - scooped best actress for her role as singer Edith Piaf in La Vie En Rose. The critics' awards come ahead of the Golden Globe nominations on Thursday, which can also boost actors' Oscar chances.