‘LA LA LAND,’ ‘MANCHESTER’ SWEEP NEW YORK FILM CRITICS CIRCLE

NEW YORK—“La La Land” continued its domination of the best picture category for this awards season by taking the top prize at the 82nd New York Film Critics Circle awards on Jan. 3.

Directed by Damien Chazelle, the musical love story of an aspiring actress and a jazz musician set in Los Angeles is considered an Oscar front-runner this year.

Casey Affleck picked up best actor for his portrayal of a man who becomes the reluctant guardian for his teenage nephew after his brother dies, in the drama, “Manchester by the Sea.”

French actress Isabelle Huppert was recognized as best actress for her work in the screen dramas, “Elle” and “Things To Come.”

The best supporting actress nod went to Michelle Williams for her roles in “Manchester by the Sea” and “Certain Women.”

“Moonlight,” which follows a young black man growing up Michelle Williams and Casey Affleck win supporting actress and actor nods for “Manchester by the Sea” in a tough Miami neighborhood, picked up multiple trophies: Mahershala Ali snagged best supporting actor for his depiction of a crack dealer, while Barry Jenkins was named best director.

Founded in 1935, the New York Film Critics Circle is among the oldest critics groups in the United States, and its awards are seen as a bellwether for the Oscars.