Two of Hollywood’s most famous uninvited guests were treated to a front-row seat at the 2008 Vanity Fair Awards on Sunday night, as Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart picked up their first ever honours. The British actor, who plays the title character in the upcoming Twilight film, collected the Silver Turban award for Greatest Male Performance for his portrayal of Indiana Jones, while Stewart – who costars with her husband in the movie – picked up the Cecil Beaton Award for Fashion.
The couple were photographed by Annie Leibovitz for Vanity Fair as they celebrated their award victories. They showed off their charming and happy personalities, as well as their dedication to cinematic excellence, as they posed alongside legendary fashion photographer Beaton for the cover of the magazine’s May issue. (Forbes)
The 24-year-old Scottish actress picked up the most coveted honour as she became the first woman to win the Cecil Beaton Award. The annual award is given to a fashion figure who has transcended the decades and remains stylish and innovative in their approach to the craft. Stewart won the award for her versatility, her unique sense of fashion and her ability to inspire others. (Vogue)
A career spanning over a decade in the industry, the fashion icon and photographer praised Stewart for her work, particularly for her recent projects.
“It’s been a real pleasure working with you, because while there’s a lot of pressure at first when you’re starting out, it really does feel like a labour of love,” she said. “I think people are going to be talking about this shoot for years to come.” Asked if there was anything else she’d like to achieve, Stewart responded: “More. I want more.” (Vogue)
Meanwhile, Pattinson, who recently completed filming the latest Twilight installment, was presented with the Silver Turban for outstanding male performance for his role in the upcoming Robocop remake. The actor was dressed in a tight-fitting black t-shirt and jeans, and he sported a small, simple diamond stud in his left nostril.
“We’re thrilled to have won this award,” said the British heartthrob. “It’s a real validation for the work that we’ve done. It’s an important part of the film-making process, having someone else acknowledge the work that we’ve put in – and particularly, what the director has built.” He continued: “He’s an amazing filmmaker, which we were lucky enough to be a part of. Working with a visionary like Tony Scott is the sort of privilege every actor dreams of.” (The Hollywood Reporter)
The Twilight Saga: New Moon is released in British cinemas on May 30 and the Robocop remake is set to premiere on February 14, 2010.
‘Cecil Beaton Award for Fashion’
The 36-year-old photographer praised Stewart for her elegant and timeless combination of style and warmth, as well as for her ability to defy trends. “I’ve been a fan of hers for a really long time,” he said. “I had the good fortune to photograph her when she was younger, and she’s since become such a great role model for young women around the world.” (Vogue)
The photographer, who shot many of Hollywood’s most famous faces, including Sean Connery, Elizabeth Taylor and Grace Kelly, said Stewart personifies elegance and is a stylist’s dream. “Some people say that she’s a combination of Grace Kelly and Marjorie Merriweather Post,” he said. “She has that wonderful glow. And as I’ve gotten older, I’ve found it harder to find youthful and delicate females with that radiance. She’s just so damn radiant, like a candlelight glow.” (The Hollywood Reporter)
Stewart, who studied contemporary art history at New York University before turning to acting, became the first woman to receive the coveted accolade. This year’s theme for the fashion magazine was ’70s Fashion’, and many of the outfits from that decade were recreated for the event. The actress sported a white dress with a black belt and matching booties, as well as black pearl earrings and a brooch featuring a panther. (Vogue)
‘Silver Turban’
Pattinson, who recently completed filming the latest Twilight installment, was also recognised for his performance in Scott’s newest offering. The actor, who plays the title character in the film, was awarded the Silver Turban for his outstanding contribution to British cinema, as he has made a name for himself in Hollywood. “I’m really proud to win this,” said Pattinson, who beat out several other nominees for the award. “It means a lot, to be recognised for your work by your peers.” (The Hollywood Reporter)
Pattinson portrays the legendary Dr. Richard Kimble, who, after being diagnosed with leukaemia, takes a leave of absence from his job. While on the run from the law, he meets Oona, the daughter of the millionaire who supported his medical training. The couple then embark on a passionate romance that is filled with danger and thrills as Kimble fights to save his life and win the affection of the woman he loves. (IMDb)
Pattinson, who has worked with several of Hollywood’s top directors, including Ridley Scott and Gus Van Sant, said the film is different to his previous works. “I think there’s a real sense of freedom in doing something you’re not familiar with,” he said. “My previous films have been more character-based, and I think what Tony has done is fantastic. He’s taken me into a whole new area of performing. You’re playing an iconic character, and there’s a real respect factor, not least from your peers, in playing an icon.” (The Hollywood Reporter)
The actor cited several films, including Scott’s previous work, The Martian, as influences for his portrayal of the doctor. “I think it’s fair to say that Tony has created a monster. I think that’s an amazing testament to his skill as a filmmaker,” said the British heartthrob. (The Hollywood Reporter)
‘Greatest Male Performance’
As well as celebrating their victories, the couple were also there to present awards to other movie stars. Stewart presented the award to Michael Caine for his performance in the title role of Brighton Rock. The British actor, who has appeared in numerous Hollywood films, including The Italian Job and The Ipcress File, thanked Stewart before collecting the award. “This is such a great honour to be presented to Cecil Beaton by such a glamorous and stylish woman,” he said. (The Hollywood Reporter)
‘Versatile Actress’
Robert Duvall, who plays Caine’s character’s father in Brighton Rock, was also recognised for his performance. The actor thanked and praised Stewart, before accepting the award. “Thanks to Kristen, I can now say I’ve worked with a great stylist,” he said. “Being able to watch her transform a man’s wardrobe is an amazing thing. She’s so talented.” (The Hollywood Reporter)
Duvall was presented with the award by Stewart, who also stars in the movie as his character’s sister. In addition to her fashion prowess, Stewart also stars in the movie as a ballerina, which she has described as “the most challenging role” she has ever had to film. (The Hollywood Reporter)
‘First Feline Award’
Wolverine actor Hugh Jackman was unable to attend the event as he was touring the UK with his band. However, he did send a video message, in which he congratulated Stewart on her latest triumph. “I’m so happy for her. She’s such a fantastic role model for young women,” he said. “I always said she had real acting potential – and here she is proving it.” (The Hollywood Reporter)
‘Unique Sense of Fashion’
Pattinson picked up another award for his work in Scott’s The Tourist, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival last month. This year’s festival celebrated its 70th anniversary, and many of the movies shown were reflective of the decade. Much like Stewart’s elegant style, Scott’s The Tourist is a movie that will be talked about for years to come.
“Fashion in film has come a long way since the 20s, and to be able to photograph these incredible styles is such an honour,” said Leibovitz. “To be able to work with these two incredible performers is unbelievable. To be able to translate their on-set energy and personalities into fashion is such a treat.” (Vogue)