The readers of Britain's Empire Magazine roared their disagreement with Oscar voters over what was the finest film of 2005. "King Kong" gobbled up their best picture award while devouring also-rans "Crash," "Sin City," "War of the Worlds" and "Star Wars: Episode III."

"This was absolutely, really needed because we were doing really badly this year," said Andy Serkis, who portrayed Kong, accepting the prize in London. "This film was made with a lot of passion and a lot of love. The script was crafted. It was a very political film — and it only cost $270 million!"

Over the past decade of their existence, the Empire Awards have agreed with the Oscars upon best pics "Lord of the Rings: Return of the King," "Gladiator" and "Braveheart," but otherwise have stuck with blockbusters when Hollywood voters preferred more arty fare, opting for "The Bourne Supremacy," "The Matrix" and "Men in Black."

This year there was a surprise in the race for best director.

"That's just ridiculous," said Nick Park when he and co-helmer Steve Box, directors of "Wallace & Grmoit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit," beat "Kong's" Peter Jackson and "Munich's" Steven Spielberg.

Best Actor: Johnny Depp, "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory"

Best Actress: Thandie Newton, "Crash"

Best Comedy: "Team America: World Police"

Best Thriller: "Kiss Kiss Bang Bang"

Best Horror: "The Descent"

Best Science Fiction/Fantasy: "Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith"

Scene of the Year: Birth of Vader in "Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith"

The Empire Inspiration Award: Stephen Frears

The Empire Icon: Brian Cox

Best Newcomer: Kelly Reilly

The Empire Outstanding Contribution Award: the Harry Potter films

The Empire Lifetime Achievement Award: Tony Curtis

Photo: 'King Kong' wasn't nominated for best picture at the Oscars, but won three statuettes in the tech categories.
(Universal Picture)