Back in the Spirit

By Steven Zeitchik

Ask and ye shall receive.

Okay, we don't assume the Spirits heard our plea to go for smaller movies before making their choices. But this year's nominee lot, announced this morning, has an especially indie feel -- "Frozen River," "Ballast" and "Rachel Getting Married" landed atop the most-nommed heap. ("Slumdog" was apparently not eligible.)

"The Wrestler" and "Rachel" are both viable best picture Oscar candidates and were both nominated for the Spirit best feature. But if they don't win -- or perhaps even if they do -- it could be the first time in six years the movie that wins best feature isn't nominated for the Best Picture Oscar. Good for the Spirits for recognizing some of this year's indie gems.