The 2009 Critics Choice Awards

After the fans picked their favorites at the People's Choice Awards earlier this week, it was time for the professionals to have their say at the 14th Annual Critics' Choice Awards, held at the Santa Monica Civic Center. Nominees Angelina Jolie (in Max Azria) and Brad Pitt caused their usual red carpet frenzy, though the stunning actress explained that we won't be seeing much of her on the red carpet once awards season is over. "I am going to work a lot less," Jolie told reporters at the ceremony, which was broadcast live on VH1. "I may work for a few months, but if I do I will probably then take another year and a half off."

-Lindzi Scharf

"I didn't think I was going to win. I really didn't. When you’re nominated against Meryl Streep, you just assume it's not possible," exclaimed Anne Hathaway, who tied with acting legend Streep for the highly-coveted Best Actress award. Among the leading ladies who congratulated Hathaway (in Gianfranco Ferre) on her big win was Penelope Cruz (in Yves Saint Laurent).

After attending InStyle's annual Diamond Luncheon earlier in the day, Freida Pinto got glam for the evening in a Grecian-inspired Zac Posen gown and mingled with Common (in Moschino Uomo) and Eva Longoria Parker (in Monique Lhuillier) backstage. Slumdog Millionaire star Pinto had plenty to celebrate-the film captured the prize for Best Picture.

"It's a thrill to be here," announced Kate Beckinsale (in J. Mendel), who joined Josh Brolin on-stage to present the award for Best Comedy Movie to Ben Stiller and his Tropic Thunder crew. Later in the evening, Brolin admitted that he was "completely blown away," when he was named as part of the Best Acting Ensemble winners for his role in the movie Milk.

Diane Lane (in Monique Lhuillier) presented frequent co-star Richard Gere with the second annual Joel Siegel Award. "Besides looking incredible, she's actually one of my best friends," the actor told reporters about his bond with Lane.

"I'm nervous," giggled Katy Perry-channeling old Hollywood glamour in a Dolce & Gabbana dress, Christian Dior wrap, and jewels by H. Stern-who presented the Best Composer Award with Christopher Mintz-Plasse.

"It's Oscar," cooed Amy Adams, who looked radiant in a strapless sheath by Oscar de la Renta. The actress-a Golden Globe nominee for her turn as a nun in the drama Doubt-took on the role of presenter for the evening, announcing Wall-E as the winner of the Best Animated Feature award.

"This is a really classy award show, there are always great actors here," said Amanda Bynes (in Herve Leger). "These are the big wigs!" seconded High School Musical star Corbin Bleu. "I've always said my favorite is Angelina [Jolie]! She has my heart forever!"