Los Angeles, November 4 – While it was a bit odd that American Tom Hanks received a Britannia Award from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts, even more odd was rapper 50 Cent presenting director Jim Sheridan (In America) with a trophy at the Beverly Hilton bash. Mr. Cent was there because he’s working with Sheridan on a film about his life, Eminem/8 Mile-style. The notoriously tough Mr. Cent - famously riddled with nine bullets one night – was in a great mood, laughing and joking, telling Open All Night that he’s not fond of walking red carpets, preferring to sneak in through the back door. Psst: 50 Cent told us he will appear at next week’s Vibe Awards.

Speaking of sneaking in the back door, Meg Ryan, Kate Winslet and Colin Farrell did just that at this BAFTA soiree, brilliantly avoiding us.

Tom Hanks and wife Rita Wilson were also giddy and joking. While Rita was being photographed, Tom took on the role of tabloid reporter, asking her who she’d be sleeping with that night. She then grabbed her husband and said, “Oh, let’s do prom pictures”, slipped her arm through his, stood erect and turned toward the press. Michael Caine and Jeremy Irons, both presenters, talked and laughed together, and British actress Helen Mirren also received an award.

Photos by Jen Lowery