‘Aviator,’ ‘Vera Drake’ win awards

“The Aviator” soared at the British Academy Film Awards, taking four prizes, including best film. The abortion drama “Vera Drake” won three, including best director for Mike Leigh.

“The Aviator” -- which has 11 nominations for the Feb. 27 Academy Awards -- had led the field with 14 nominations. But members of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts scattered the prizes widely.

Imelda Staunton won best actress for her wrenching performance as a 1950s Cockney housewife who performs illegal abortions in “Vera Drake.” The film also took the costume design prize.

Jamie Foxx was named best actor for his depiction of singer Ray Charles in “Ray”; the film also won the award for best sound.