Film Independent is an open enrollment and non-profit membership organization that champions independent film and supports a community of artists who embody diversity, innovation, and uniqueness of vision. Film Independent helps filmmakers make their movies, builds the audience for their projects, and works to diversify the film industry. Anyone passionate about film can become a member, whether you are a filmmaker, film industry leader, or a film lover.
Best FeatureJuno Producers: Lianne Halfon, John Malkovich, Mason Novick, Russell Smith Fox Searchlight Pictures WATCH VIDEO 
Best Director Julian Schnabel The Diving Bell and the Butterfly Miramax Films 
Best Supporting MaleChiwetel Ejiofor Talk To Me Focus Features 
Best First FeatureThe Lookout Director: Scott Frank Producers: Roger Birnbaum, Gary Barber, Laurence Mark, Walter Parkes Miramax Films WATCH VIDEO |
John Cassavetes AwardAugust Evening Writer/Director: Chris Eska Producers: Connie Hill, Jason Wehling WATCH VIDEO 
Robert Altman AwardI'm Not There Director: Todd Haynes Casting: Laura Rosenthal Ensemble Cast: Cate Blanchett, Christian Bale, Richard Gere, Heath Ledger, Ben Whishaw, Bruce Greenwood, Marcus Carl Franklin, Charlotte Gainsbourg, David Cross, Julianne Moore, Michelle Williams WATCH VIDEO 
Acura Someone to Watch AwardRamin Bahrani Director of Chop Shop |
Best Male Lead
Best Female Lead
Best Cinematographer
Best Screenplay
Best Supporting Female
Best First Screenplay
Best Documentary
Best Foreign Film
Piaget Producers Award
IFC Truer than Fiction Award
Film Independent thanks the Industry Circle for its support of the Spirit Awards. Members Include:
| 2929 Productions | Mississippi Film Office |
| A&E IndieFilms | Overture Films |
| Argyros Foundation | Schreck Rose Dapello Adams & Hurwitz LLP |
| DTS Digital Cinema | Sony Pictures Classics |
| Focus Features | Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions Group |
| Fox Searchlight Pictures | Strongheart Pictures |
| IAG Research | Universal Pictures |
| IndieVest, Inc. | Warner Independent Pictures |
| Loeb & Loeb LLP | William Morris Agency |
