Forget Change – Awards Season Is in the Air!

The nominations for the 2009 Film Independent's Spirit Awards were announced today, and Milk is one of the leading contenders going into next February’s pre-Oscar ceremony.

Sean Penn is up for a Spirit Award in the Best Actor Lead category, as are Javier Bardem for Vicky Cristina Barcelona, Richard Jenkins for The Visitor, Jeremy Renner for The Hurt Locker, and Mickey Rourke for The Wrestler.

Michelle Williams scored a Best Female Lead nod for her work in Wendy and Lucy. She faces off against Summer Bishil (Towelhead), Anne Hathaway (Rachel Getting Married), Melissa Leo (Frozen River), and Tarra Riggs (Ballast).

The Best Feature nominees are Ballast, Frozen River, Rachel Getting Married, Wendy and Lucy, and The Wrestler.

For a complete list of nominees, click here.

Photo: Focus Features (Milk).