SANTA MONICA, Calif. — "The Wrestler" tossed aside the competition by winning three honors, including best picture, to lead all winners at Saturday night's Spirit Awards held in Santa Monica.
The film also earned star Mickey Rourke a best-actor trophy, while French camerawoman Maryse Alberti won the cinematography prize.
Melissa Leo captured best actress honors for her performance in the smuggling drama "Frozen River."
In the supporting actor and actress categories, James Franco won for "Milk," while Penelope Cruz took the prize for "Vicky Cristina Barcelona," respectively.
Best director honors went to Tom McCarthy for his work on "The Visitor."
The Spirit Awards, now in their 24th year, are the equivalent of the Academy Awards to the independent film world.
View red carpet photos from the 2009 Spirit Awards.
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