Marion Cotillard has been named the surprise winner of the 2007 Best Actress prize by the African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA).
The star was lauded by the organisation on Monday for her portrayal of tragic singer Edith Piaf in La Vie En Rose, despite not being of African-American descent.
AAFCA president Gil Robertson IV, says: "Although our organisation gives specific consideration to work by artists of African descent, Ms Cotillard's astonishing portrayal of Edith Piaf is a standout performance worthy of recognition."
Don Cheadle's role in Talk To Me landed him the organisation's Best Actor gong, with filmmaker Kasi Lemons named Best Director.
American Gangster won Best Supporting Actress and Actor awards for Ruby Dee and Chiwetel Ejiofor, while top film was the Denzel Washington-directed The Great Debaters. - Wenn