Reuters reports that the low-budget movie “The Artist” won four Independent Spirit Awards during the Saturday ceremony which was held in Santa Monica, California. Michel Hazanavicius’ film was highly appreciated by critics, which is why they decided to honor it with four awards including one for best film and director.

The much-awaited Academy Awards that are due to take place on Sunday were preceded by the Independent Spirit Awards gala on Saturday. The winners’ list is made up of the same titles we have seen at the Grammy Awards 2012. “The Artist”, a black-and-white movie about an actor whose career begins to collapse with the advent of the talkies, was once again the most appreciated film. In addition to the best film and director honors, the French production also received an award for the categories of best actor and best cinematography.

The producers of the film were very busy in the past months because they had to attend many international events. Despite this, Hazanavicius is glad to be able to attend the major events of the awards season. He told reporters that the spiritual benefits they get when they receive the awards are enough to make them forget any physical tiredness.

Speaking about the upcoming Oscar ceremony, the French writer and director admitted that he is nervous. The fact that they have always wanted to win an Oscar is the main factor contributing to their emotions. However, the Independent Spirit Awards was just as important as any other ceremony and the four awards meant a lot for producers.

“The Descendants” was the second most appreciated movie of the evening. The film was honored twice on Saturday for the categories of best screenplay and best supporting actress. Michelle Williams was named the best lead actress for her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in the movie “My Week With Marilyn”. Williams was also nominated at the Oscars, but the competition is very strong as the other actresses that were nominated are Viola Davis for her performance in “The Help” and Meryl Streep for her interpretation of the British Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, in “The Iron Lady”.