The Sapphires proves to be a gem at Australian film awards

Vietnam war period movie The Sapphires dominated the AACTA’s last night, winning best film, best director (Wayne Blair), best actress (Deborah Mailman), best actor (Chris O’Dowd) and best supporting actress (Jessica Mauboy).

The film about an aboriginal troupe of entertainers who performed for American – and not Australian – soldiers swept the awards, and also won the best screenplay (Keith Thompson and Tony Briggs).

The event staged at Sydney’s Star casino and hosted by Russell Crowe was televised on delay by the Ten Network, but failed to make a dent in OzTam ratings.