Chinese martial arts drama "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" and Roman epic "Gladiator" led the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) awards shortlist, both with 14 nominations, it was announced Wednesday.
"Crouching Tiger," directed by Ang Lee, was up for best film while star Michelle Yeoh was nominated for the best actress award. Lee was nominated for best director.
It was highly unusual for a foreign language film to receive so many nominations.
"Gladiator" was also up for best film, as well as best actor for Russell Crowe. Oliver Reed was given a posthumous nomination for his supporting role.
Crouching Tiger star Yeoh's competitors in the best actress category were Kate Hudson for "Almost Famous," Juliette Binoche for "Chocolat," Julia Roberts for "Erin Brockovich" and Hilary Swank for "Boys Don't Cry."
Other nomination of "Crouching Tiger" included best adapted screenplay, supporting actress for Zhang Zi Yi and best foreign language film.
It wad also up for a costume award, along with "Gladiator," which also has a best supporting actor nomination for Joaquin Phoenix alongside Oliver Reed.
This year's awards, to be held on February 25, will mark the first time the BAFTA to be held before the Oscars ceremony in Hollywood, rather than after it.
Officials at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts moved the ceremony forward to give it more influence over the Academy Awards.
(Xinhua 01/31/2001)
