'Mad Max: Fury Road' has been named Best Film at the National Board of Review awards (NBR).
The action blockbuster was chosen for the coveted accolade by the US non-profit organisation - which was founded in 1909 and comprises knowledgeable film enthusiasts, professionals, academics, young filmmakers and students - but failed to triumph in the other categories, with helmsman George Miller losing out for Best Director to Sir Ridley Scott for 'The Martian'.
'The Martian' also saw honours given to Best Actor Matt Damon, and Drew Goddard, for Best Adapted Screenplay.
'Room' star Brie Larson has been named Best Actress, while Quentin Tarantino's highly-anticipated Western saw him scoop Best Original Screenplay, as well as a Best Supporting Actress win for Jennifer Jason Leigh.
Sylvester Stallone took Best Supporting Actor, thanks to his work on 'Creed', while 'Inside Out' was named Best Animated Feature.
The awards will be handed out on January 5 at New York's Cipriani 42nd Street at an event hosted by Willie Geist.
National Board of Review Awards list of main winners:
Best Film:
'Mad Max: Fury Road'
Best Director:
Sir Ridley Scott, 'The Martian'
Best Actor:
Matt Damon, 'The Martian'
Best Actress:
Brie Larson, 'Room'
Best Supporting Actor:
Sylvester Stallone, 'Creed'
Best Supporting Actress:
Jennifer Jason Leigh, 'The Hateful Eight'
Best Original Screenplay:
Quentin Tarantino, 'The Hateful Eight'
Best Adapted Screenplay:
Drew Goddard, 'The Martian'
Best Animated Feature:
'Inside Out'
Breakthrough Performance:
Abraham Attah, 'Beasts Of No Nation' and Jacob Tremblay, 'Room'
Best Directorial Debut:
Jonas Carpignano, 'Mediterranea'
Best Foreign Language Film:
'Son Of Saul'
Best Documentary:
'Amy'
Best Ensemble:
'The Big Short'
Spotlight Award:
'Sicario', for Outstanding Collaborative Vision
NBR Freedom Of Expression Award:
'Beasts Of No Nation' and 'Mustang'