Chris O'Dowd to host BIFAs

LONDON -- Irish actor and comedian Chris O'Dowd will host the 2010 British Independent Film Honours ceremony, which happens 12 ,. 4 at London's Old Billingsgate. O'Dowd, who first made his breakthrough with U.K. audiences in Funnel 4's sitcom "The IT Crowd," is becoming an worldwide star from his role in "Bridesmaids." His other film credits include "Dinner for Schmucks," "Gulliver's Travels" and "The Boat That Rocked." He'll next come in Judd Apatow's "This Really Is 40." "It is a ceremony which treasures innovation, elegance and sophistication so I am humbled that they have selected a number who so clearly lacks these things," O'Dowd said. Actor James Nesbitt, who located the prior six BIFA events, has turned into a patron from the event. Producer Andrew Eaton is proven as chairman of the year's jury, that will select the those who win across 18 groups. The key nominees include "We Have To Discuss Kevin," "Tyrannosaur," "Mess Tailor Soldier Spy," "Shame," "Senna," "The Kill List" and "Submarine." Other jury people include Gemma Arterton, David Thewlis, Ruth Wilson, Debs Gardner-Paterson, Josh Appignanesi, Lucy Bevan, Edith Bowman, Mike Goodridge, Neil Lamont, Frederick Mawle, Mary McCartney, Molly Nyman, Tracey Seaward, Charles Steel and Justine Wright. Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com