SYDNEY, Wednesday, 1 February 2012: The winners of the inaugural Samsung AACTA Awards (Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts) have been announced, and Warp Films Australia’s SNOWTOWN has emerged as the success story of the evening in the feature film category.

Of its initial ten nominations, SNOWTOWN has taken out six of the prestigious awards, including last night’s ceremony-awarded Best Direction (Justin Kurzel), Best Lead Actor (Daniel Henshall), Best Adapted Screenplay (Shaun Grant) and Best Supporting Actress (Louise Grant). SNOWTOWN also picked up the Best Sound and Best Editing awards at the inaugural Samsung AACTA Awards Luncheon held earlier in the month.

Based on the true story of Australia’s most infamous serial killings, also known as ‘The Bodies In The Barrels’ murders, SNOWTOWN is Justin Kurzel’s directorial debut and the first local production from Warp Films Australia. SNOWTOWN was released to cinemas in May, garnering massive critical acclaim and word of mouth. SNOWTOWN is available now on DVD, Blu-Ray and digital platforms.

In the television category, SBS’s gritty Sydney-based crime drama, EAST WEST 101 SEASON 3 – A HERO’S JOURNEY has added another accolade to its long list of previous AFI Awards with the Best Television Drama Series AACTA Award. EAST WEST 101 seasons 1-3 are available now on DVD.

Paul Wiegard, Managing Director, Madman Entertainment said: “We are thrilled the industry has recognised these films and productions, and the abundance of talent behind them. The AACTA awards are a boon for the profile of Australian films and the Australian film industry.”

The Samsung AACTA Awards red carpet ceremony was held last night at the Sydney Opera House and broadcast on the Nine Network.