NY Critics reveal their picks

9/11 film, actors Mirren, Whitaker top critics' lists | ajc.com: "'United 93,' a film that unflinchingly depicts the terrorist-hijacked flight that crashed into a Pennsylvania field on Sept. 11, 2001, was chosen Monday as best picture of the year by the New York Film Critics Circle.

The critics also helped Forest Whitaker and Helen Mirren continue to solidify their positions as Oscar front-runners —- each won the top acting prize, Whitaker for his thunderous portrayal of Idi Amin in 'The Last King of Scotland' and Helen Mirren for her withering take on Queen Elizabeth II in 'The Queen.' Both have won the same honor in other recently announced awards lists.

Supporting-actor awards went to Jackie Earle Haley for his haunting turn as a sex offender in 'Little Children' and Jennifer Hudson, who is emerging as an awards favorite for her showstopping performance in 'Dreamgirls.'

Martin Scorsese was the group's choice for best director for his Boston mob epic 'The Departed.' Peter Morgan earned yet another award for his screenplay for 'The Queen.'"